20 Reasons to Love Argan Oil

From tackling skin problems and stretch marks to softening skin and smoothing hair, could argan oil be the world’s most useful all-natural beauty product? Caitlyn Davey reveals the myriad benefits of this Moroccan elixir.

Often confused with Moroccan oil, argan oil is a pure substance extracted from the argan tree in Morocco. Moroccan oil is a less pure form of argan oil that typically contains synthetic additives. Argan oil, in its pure form, has a myriad of beauty uses, which is why hairdressers and therapists often recommend it.

Founder of Izil Natural Argan Beauty, Mohamed Najib Mouline, shares her top 20 ways to use and benefit from argan oil.

1. Treat your wrinkles
Argan oil is rich in vitamin E and antioxidants that help to fight against wrinkles and other skin changes.

2. Enjoy brighter skin
Mix argan oil with a spoonful of honey and a spoon of rosewater to create the perfect 30-minute face mask.

3. Fight off oily skin
Apply argan oil to the face – it acts as a sebum production regulator, reducing the skin’s production of natural oils.

4. Combat dry skin
If you have dry skin, argan oil will help balance moisture thanks to its rich fatty-acid content.

5. Fight dandruff
If you suffer from dandruff, apply argan oil to your hair and massage well into the scalp. Brush the oil through and wrap in a hot towel. Leave for 20 minutes before washing as normal. Then you will be able to see the difference: the oil will soothe, hydrate and nourish your scalp.

6. Prevent hair loss
Following the same process as you would for dandruff, you can create thicker hair. Just remember to distribute the oil evenly.

7. Enhance your existing products
You can even use argan oil to enhance your shampoo and conditioner. Simply add a few drops to your regular products for an ultra-hydrating experience.

8. Repair damaged skin
Cracked skin on feet can be unsightly. Nourish cracked heels by applying argan oil, then cover with socks. The deep hydration will sink into the skin cells and soften your feet.

9. Soften your hands
Massage your hands with argan oil each evening to rehydrate and strengthen, saving your nails from brittleness and cracking.

10. Eradicate stretch marks
Reduce the appearance of stretch marks by massaging argan oil into the tummy, chest, hips and thighs.

11. Treat skin complaints
Eczema and psoriasis can be relieved with the soothing power of argan oil, the substance is natural so it will not aggravate skin conditions.

12. Hydrate your skin
If you are prone to dry skin, rest assured that through applying argan oil to the affected area, you can enjoy smooth, hydrated skin.

13. Soothe sunburn
Sunburn can be painful, but heal those hot spots with a touch of argan oil and feel the sudden difference.

14. Treat bites and stings
Calm irritating bug bites and insect stings with argan oil, which will tone down the redness and soothe itchiness.

15. Fight infection
Argan oil is renowned for its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, providing organic, natural care for your skin.

16. Help your joints
Ease your arthritis or rheumatic problems by massaging with argan oil daily. This helps to reduce pain and help improve your quality of life.

17. Use as a baby product
Your baby can bounce around with moisturised and healthy skin. Use argan oil to hydrate without the use of the potentially harmful chemicals and additives found in many baby products.

18. Combat the effects of the sun
Sitting in the sun can result in scaly skin. Applying argan oil will help the scaly areas disappear.

19. Clear up your skin
If you’re prone to acne, use sebum-production-regulating argan oil. It will moisturise without making the face oily, and is also gentle on the skin.

20. Calm down
Relax in a hot bath using argan oil. Add a few drops to the running water and soak up the natural goodness.

By Caitlyn Davey

From: Time Out Dubai

Emotional Fitness: 6 Reasons We Don’t Chase Our Dreams....

.... and why we should anyway.

When it comes to achieving your dreams, what’s stopping you? For many, a bad experience or discouraging person keeps them from fulfilling their heart's desire. But there are millions of other reasons why people don’t take a shot at happiness.
Here are a few of the most common ones:

• You're too shy to ask.Whether it’s asking someone out on a date or applying for a job, many of us are too shy to actually approach another person. Even today, when much of our communication occurs virtually, nothing takes the place of a face-to-face request. It’s much harder to say no to someone directly than it is to ignore an email.

• You feel you don’t deserve it.
  If you have doubts about your worthiness when it comes to career or relationships, you need to take a long look into your internal mirror. What negative messages are you sending to yourself? Why do you believe that you are not good enough? Asking yourself these questions can help you develop positive alternative thoughts. Remember: You deserve happiness.
  
• You question your ability.
  You may be able to ask for what you want, and feel you deserve it, but still wonder if you are up to the task. Maybe you think you don’t have the talent or the leadership ability to get the job done. Look, most people learn on the fly. You have to just dive in and expect to make a few mistakes along the way. You will get the hang of whatever it is, soon enough.
  
  
• You feel that you don’t have the time to take on anything more.
  Everyone I know who has successfully started their own business began working on it in their spare time. For them and many others, evenings and weekends are no longer spent in front of the television (except maybe during football season). You can spend your extra time building your dream. Anything you want to achieve is worth the extra work.
  
• You tell yourself that there’s someone who is better than you.
  There will always be people who are better looking, or who have more money, higher degrees, greater experience, or more magnetic personalities. But they aren’t the same as you. You bring your own set of talents, your personal vision, and your values to any situation or relationship with which you’re involved. Trust that what’s inside you is as good as it gets. Now go for it.
  
• You’re trying to keep a low profile.You may think that you shouldn’t stand out, because you’re afraid you might get hurt. Yes, successful people can become targets for others who are angry, misguided, or feel somehow inferior. But believing that if you’re successful, harm will come your way is a myth that was started by people too scared to reach for their dreams.

Don’t let yourself or anyone else talk you out of fulfilling your dreams.

by Barton Goldsmith, Ph.D.  
Source

10 Actions to Boost Self-Confidence

As Muslimahs, I think it's doubly important to have that extra bit of self-confidence what with the deen always being put down in the media and the local/wider community. I came across this post on: http://productivemuslim.com/sisters-self-confidence/  which gives tips on how to be more positive as well as boosting your confidence.

Enjoy!

 

10 Actions for Sisters to Boost Self-Confidence

December 4, 2014Lotifa Begum

One of the major barriers to productivity I often hear about when I meet sisters across the world, is the lack of self-confidence. I know from personal experience that is isn’t easy to develop confidence – some people are born with it, but I believe for most of us, it has to be developed and nurtured as we grow! I often have friends and family tell me I carry an aura of confidence about me; some wonder ‘what’s her secret?’ – it has has certainly taken some training! It is really disheartening to see Muslim women who are so talented, educated and ambitious thwart their progress and productivity because they have low self-esteem. I’d like to explore how we sisters can boost our own confidence with practical tips from the Qur’an and Sunnah.

Firstly, I want to remind you that Allah has honoured women, affording us rights more than 1400 years ago and endowing on us the opportunity to earn the highest stations in Paradise, through the various roles we play as daughters, wives, mothers and Muslimahs in our society. We only have to look to our historical examples of female scholars such as Aisha bint Abu Bakr to learn that achieving confidence is not a sign of arrogance or being against Islamic values. In fact, one can be confident in their faith whilst being a Muslimah in pursuit of her goals.

Remember, Allah says: “And We have certainly honored the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what We have created, with [definite] preference.” [Qur’an: Chapter 17, Verse 70]

Let’s look at some of the ways I have learnt to personally conquer my fear and boost my confidence:

1. Have self-belief

As a Muslimah, if you don’t believe that you can achieve something, even if it’s a small task, this can impact your confidence greatly. The first step is to develop a positive mindset and have the belief that you are capable of doing what you set out to accomplish with Allah ‘s Help. This will take some internal work and will not be done overnight, but start by telling yourself that Allah wanted you to be the best Muslimah you can be in every aspect of your life – this will get you on the road to developing confidence.

2. Use positive language

What kind of language do you use in your daily life, whether at work, home or in the community? Do you tend to use the words ‘can’t’, or ‘don’t believe’ or ‘not sure’ often in your responses? If you do, then perhaps you are using what psychologists call ‘self-limiting’ terms which can prevent you from being confident. Instead, try to say ‘I can do this’, ‘I will inshaAllah achieve’, or ‘I am capable of..’ as this kind of language will increase your positivity and give you a sense of self-belief.

3. Dump your negative thoughts

When negative thoughts and whispers enter your mind then remind yourself of the positive language. Don’t allow yourself to be put down by these thoughts, as this will prevent you from achieving your set goals. Try writing down negative feelings and thoughts, then tell yourself the opposite of what have you have written. For example, if you have written: ‘I can’t do this because I’m not good enough’, tell yourself ‘I will try to do this and I might actually be good at it’. If you let negative thinking sabotage your productivity, then you may feel regret later in life.

4. Write down a list of your strengths

One of the most powerful exercises I have done with my mentor on a regular basis, is to discuss and write my own strengths. As an example, I have written that I have ‘good interpersonal and communication skills’ and then written an example of when I proved this such as at an event when I met with someone new. This short exercise should take no more than 20-30 minutes but will serve as a great way to increase your confidence, especially when you are feeling down. Use this list of strengths to motivate you in whatever area of work you are focussing on.

5. Read up about confidence

Confidence is not something we are all born with, but it is certainly a quality we admire in people around us. Some are gifted with it, while others have a ‘quiet confidence’ about them which we may not always perceive. There are some great resources out there to help you with confidence; one of my favourites is ‘How to Develop Self-Confidence & Influence People by Public Speaking’ by Dale Carnegie. You can also search online for the many other tools and articles on why self-confidence is important especially in women, in both professional and personal capacities. Read up on the female scholars and pious women, and take lessons from their personalities and ways they handled their affairs – they are the best of examples.

6. Receive compliments gracefully

When I look back to my days of low self-confidence, I re-call compliments being vital to giving me a boost – especially when they were from people I respected, like my teachers. Some sisters on the other hand find it extremely difficult to receive compliments, and sometimes ‘defer’ them, so they put themselves down, instead of graciously thanking someone for their kind words. Although this should be carefully balanced with avoiding feelings of pride or complacency, accepting compliments when you’ve earned them can remind you that you have good qualities and traits to contribute. Respond to these compliments by saying ‘thank you, that’s very kind of you’ while acknowledging that you always have more to learn, to keep your humility.

7. Pursue something you are good at

There’s nothing more empowering than discovering you are good at something. Once you know what you are good at, you can gain a sense of self-fulfilment and maximise your confidence. For many sisters I meet, there are so many dreams and ideas they have, yet the environment or family expectations mean they are unable to pursue such activities. My advice is to keep trying until you are able to do this, it will in turn have positive psychological benefits for you and your family when you do what you love.

8. Network with new Muslimahs

Meeting new sisters is always a test of our own confidence as it can take us out of our comfort zone, but it is also a great way to improve your self-confidence by telling people about yourself. Before you go to an event, meeting or somewhere where you can network with people, think about the interesting things you like or have done to use as talking points. Hopefully it will ensure that the people you talk to have a interesting conversation with you and remember you as a confident Muslimah!

9. Be independent

Being able to do things without depending on others is a huge morale booster as it gives you a sense of empowerment and self-dignity. This may be doing something you haven’t ever done on your own before, like learning a new skill or practising a new hobby. For years I failed at driving many times before I passed! The ability to accomplish something completely independently will give you a real confidence boost.

10. Make this special dua

There is a beautiful du’a which encapsulates the need to always ask Allah to help us improve ourselves in our faith and character. It is no easy task, and this du’a will give you the strength to be confident and productive Muslimahs!

(Moses) said: My Lord! Expand for me by breast (with assurance). And ease for me my task. And untie the knot from my tongue. That they may understand my speech.’ [Qur’an: Chapter 20, Verses 25-28]

Nailed it: How your fingertips hold the key to your health

Your nails can significantly contribute to the impression you leave on people. But they can say a lot more about you than just how strongly you take care of your appearance.
Research reveals that your hair and nails can be an indicator of your overall health. Healthy hair and nails have been linked to good nutrition. On the other hand brittle discolored nails and dull hair, among other conditions, can offer warning signs of malnutrition, infection and serious disease.
You probably don’t spend much time looking at your nails and hair. Abnormalities in these two areas often indicate illness in the body before the rest of the body will. Although nothing replaces a proper diagnosis from your doctor, read on to learn how to decode the signs of ill health.

Source

Are your nails cracked, brittle, and quick to break? That’s often a sign of iron deficiency, anemia. However, if your tips seem to crack at the slightest touch, this could be caused by an underactive thyroid.
 White spots on nails, also known as milk spots, are ironically not signs of calcium deficiency. They are simply a result of minor injuries to the nail. In some cases, they are indicators of zinc deficiency. 
Pale nails, on the other hand, could be a sign of anemia. Inadequate oxygen levels in the blood can leave the tissue beneath your nails looking ghostly. More seriously, pale nails could be a sign of congestive heart failure and liver disease.
The thickening of nails, often combined with their yellowing, is usually a sign of fungal infection. In rare cases, yellow nails can indicate a more serious condition such as thyroid disease. 
Rippled or pitted surface of the nails can be an early sign of inflammatory arthritis or psoriasis.


 You are what you eat

• While your nails aren’t a living part of your body, improving your inner health will affect their outer appearance. Before you invest in all those nail strengthening products and pills, follow these 10 simple steps to have strong healthy nails by improving what you eat. After all, you will be tackling the condition from the core.

• Consuming a balanced diet abundant in fruits and vegetables, grains, dairy, meat, and good fats will provide you with the nutrients you need for strong healthy nails and prevent any nutrient deficiencies. Eliminating one of these food groups may disturb the balance.

• Nails are layers of keratin, a type of protein. So, including protein in your diet, from meat, chicken, fish, and eggs, is essential for their strength.

• Make sure to have one iron rich food source in your daily diet. You can try these foods: Pumpkin seeds, pine nuts, lentils, oatmeal, red meat, spinach, dark chocolate, and tofu.

• Drink more water. It keeps your nails and hair hydrated. Aim for at least 8 cups daily.

• Also, exercise regularly to relieve stress. Brittle, peeling nails are a common side effect of stress due to the rise of the stress hormone cortisole.

• Vitamin B7 (biotin) can also reduce your body’s stress levels. Common dietary sources of biotin are bananas, beans, and whole grains.

• Keep your thyroid regulated by consuming sufficient Iodine. It is abundant in dried seaweed, iodized salt, milk, shrimp and eggs.

• Antioxidants can play a role in your nails as they can prevent dry weak nails and repair broken tissue. Antioxidant superfoods you should consider in your diet include berries, green tea, broccoli, cocoa, and avocados.

• Omega-3 fatty acids, amongst their countless benefits, promote nail health. This can be found in salmon, tuna, eggs, sardines, flaxseed, walnuts and almonds

• Excessive alcohol drinking and smoking can have a negative impact on nail health. It keeps the liver strained as it excretes toxins from the body.

Now that you’ve been equipped with the right information, make a habit of checking your nails on a weekly basis.

Source

Ingredients For a Content Life (2) - Love

Part 2 (final part): All you need is love..

The definition of love is a ‘strong affection for something’. Love is an innate feeling in every human being. It is sometimes thought of as the element that makes us human . The need for love According to Islam, love has to be enlightened. A sacred love is the love which is realistic and insightful. It has been a common theme in moral advises by great Muslim preachers and Sufi masters that one should not let one's love for something or some person make him negligent of the whole truth. The reason for this emphasis is that love naturally tends to make the lover "blind and deaf'. If you love some one it is very unlikely to have an impartial view of it, unless the love is directed by the reason.

Divine love A Divine love is that of a mutual love and thus the most fulfilling love a creation could ever feel. Even the worst of people still can be a receiver of Love from Allah so long as they repent. There are many beautiful Hadeeth which relate this amazing and fulfilling love Allah has bestowed upon His creation. On the authority of Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him), who said that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "Allah the Almighty said: 'I am as My servant thinks I am. I am with him when he makes mention of Me. If he makes mention of Me to himself, I make mention of him to Myself; and if he makes mention of Me in an assembly, I make mention of him in an assembly better than it. And if he draws near to Me an arm's length, I draw near to him a fathom's length. And if he comes to Me walking, I go to him at speed." (related by al-Buhkari) Furthermore the amazing quality of divine love is that Allah has made it so that through loving creation you can also be loving the Creator. This is done through following the guide of how to love through the Quran, how we live our lives, how we treat the earth and people around us. All of these things can be counted as loving Allah because it is done in obedience to Him and in seeking His pleasure and in turn Allah loves us as shown in this Hadeeth; On the authority of Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him), who said that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "Allah (mighty and sublime be He) said; 'Whosoever shows enmity to someone devoted to Me, I shall be at war with him. My servant draws not near to Me with anything more loved by Me than the religious duties I have enjoined upon him, and My servant continues to draw near to Me with supererogatory works so that I shall love him. When I love him I am his hearing with which he hears, his seeing with which he sees, his hand with which he strikes and his foot with which he walks. Were he to ask [something] of Me, I would surely give it to him, and were he to ask Me for refuge, I would surely grant him it. I do not hesitate about anything as much as I hesitate about [seizing] the soul of My faithful servant: he hates death and I hate hurting him.'" It was related by al-Bukhari.

Love of the dunya According to Islam, the minimum expectation from believers is that God should have the first place in their heart, in the sense that no other love may override one's love for God; God should be the highest and foremost object of love. The Qur'an says: Say: If your father or your sons or your brethren or your wives or your kinsfolk or the property you have acquired or the commerce you fear may slacken or the dwellings which you love¬ if these are dearer to you than God and His Apostle and striving in His way, then wait till God brings about His command; God does not guide the transgressing people. (9:24) This verse clearly indicates that one's love for God has to be superior to one's love for whatever else that one may come to love in one's life. This superiority shows itself when the love for God and for His religion comes into conflict with one's love for one's personal belongings. In this case, a believer should be able to sacrifice his personal favourite things for the sake of God. However there is a balance as Allah says; But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters." (28:77) We should be moderate in when it comes to materialistic things and show gratitude to the blessings we have. It is not wrong to enjoy or have dunya in abundance but it can become a means against you when this dunya distracts you from living your life according the deen and what is more pleasing to Allah.

Love of brotherhood On the necessity of love for people, we see that the Qur'an praises those members of the Household of the Prophet who fasted three days and gave everyday the only little food that they had at home successively to a poor, an orphan, and a captive: "And they give food out of love for Him to the poor and the orphan and the captive. [They tell them:]we only feed you for God's sake: we desire from you neither reward nor thanks."(76:8 & 9) In another Hadeeth, The Prophet Sallahu Aleyhi wa Sallam said: "By Him in Whose Hand my soul is, you will not enter Paradise unless you believe, and you will not believe unless you love each other. Should I direct you to something that if you constantly did it, you would love each other? Spread the greetings of peace among you."[Muslim]

Falling in love ..is it Haraam? We do not say love is halal or haram because it is a feeling. Maybe it is not under control. You can judge what is under control. If we are speaking about the emotion which we call “love” then we are simply speaking of a feeling. What we feel toward a particular person is not of great importance until our feeling is expressed in a particular action. Now if that action is permissible, then well and good. If it is forbidden, then we have incurred something that Allah does not approve of. If it is love between a man and a woman, the emotion itself is not the subject of questioning on the Day of Judgment. If you feel you love someone, then you cannot control your feeling. If that love prompts you to try to see that person in secret and to give expression to your feelings in actions permissible only within the bond of marriage then what you are doing is forbidden.

 

In conclusion

Love is a natural need for a human and comes in many forms, a parent to a child, friendship, romantically or through the bond of Islam. Having love in ones life makes a key ingredient for a content life and the best love is that of Allah’s so use the types of love we have talked about to gain Allah's love if you want to be the most content.

''O Allah I ask You for Your Love and the love of those

whom You Love and the actions that will cause me to attain Your

Love,O Allah make Your love more beloved to me than myself,my

family and cold water''

Allahumma inni asaluka hubaka, Wa hubbaman ya hibuka,

Wal amal al-ladhi bil leghuni hubbaka,

Allahumma ja’al hubbaka a-habba alay-yai,Min nafsi,

wa-ahli,wa minal barrid.

(received in email from al Fitrah academy)

Ingredients For a Content Life (1) - Gratitude

Part 1 – Gratitude

The Messenger of Allah sullallahu 'alayhi wa sallam said, "Strange is the affair of the mu'min (the believer), verily all his affairs are good for him. If something pleasing befalls him he thanks (Allah) and it becomes better for him. And if something harmful befalls him he is patient (sabir) and it becomes better for him. And this is only for the mu'min." Gratitude (shukr) is about expressing thanks and appreciation to those who do any favour to us. Obviously, none can come close to our creator, Allah, who gave us everything. As the Quran states:“Who created you, fashioned you perfectly, and gave you due proportion?” [Infitar 82:7]. As humans, Allah has bestowed on us the nature to be grateful and we should thus express that gratitude not just to Allah but to the people whom we deal with as well. In many places in the Quran, Allah divides people as being grateful and as ungrateful to motivate us to join the camp of those who are grateful. In one such verse prophet Sulaiman said, as stated in the Quran, “. . . then when (Sulaiman (Solomon)) saw it placed before him, he said: “This is by the Grace of my Lord to test me whether I am grateful or ungrateful! And whoever is grateful, truly, his gratitude is for (the good of) his own self, and whoever is ungrateful, (he is ungrateful only for the loss of his own self). Certainly! My Lord is Rich (Free of all wants), Bountiful” [An-Naml: 40]

Virtues of Gratitude

Gratitude is knowing whatever we have is from Allah. Allah says in the Quran: “And whatever of blessings and good things you have, it is from Allah” [al-Nahl 16:53]. He also says, “And He found you poor and made you rich (self sufficient with self contentment)” [al-Duha 93:8]. Let’s therefore constantly remind ourselves of Allah’s bounties by expressing our gratitude to Him in prayers and at other times. It is best for our own selves that in times of hardships we remember the times of blessings and ease so to be patient and remain grateful. Such times are a test to see if the believer will be grateful all the time or only when he is receiving ease and benefits, such means brings the believer closer to his Lord while pushes the ungrateful further away distinguishing between the two.

Giving pushes away calamities just as showing gratitude protects from punishments. Gratitude helps ward off the punishment of Allah “Why should Allah punish you if you have thanked (Him) and have believed in Him. And Allah is Ever All-Appreciative (of good), All-Knowing” [(An-Nisa, Verse #147)]. Not recognizing Allah’s blessings can prevent us from gaining His pleasure. Some may ask "How about those who are punished amongst the ungrateful in storms or natural disasters?" It is clear from surah Mursalat "Uthran aw Nuthrah" meaning for some it is a punishment but for others it is a reminder (bring them closer to Himself as they show patience and pray).

Do you appreciated even the smallest of blessings? Gratitude helps us appreciate what we have In a hadith, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “…if the son of Adam has one valley, he will wish that he had a second, and if he had two valleys, he would wish that he had a third. The stomach of the son of Adam will be filled only with dust (i.e., he is never satisfied)…” (Reported by Ahmad, 5/219; Saheeh al-Jaami’, 1781). So, let’s increase gratitude and count our blessings to learn to appreciate what we have rather than fretting over what we don’t, as there is always those who have far less

JazakAllah Khaire - May Allah reward you with good Gratitude helps us recognise others favours to us The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said as narrated by Abu Hurairah: “He who does not thank people, does not thank Allah” (Ahmad, Tirmidhi). He also said: “Whoever does you a favor, then reciprocate, and if you cannot find anything with which to reciprocate, then pray for him until you think that you have reciprocated him” Abu Dawood (1672). Contributing towards our Da'wah projects supports the volunteers and makes some of their tasks a bit easier. This is a type of thanks to those who sacrifice and give more than others serving our Ummah.

Gratitude increases blessings.. woohoo! Gratitude brings Allah’s Blessing upon us. Allah says: “And (remember) when your Lord proclaimed: ‘If you give thanks (by worshipping none but Allah and by counting His blesssings upon you), I will give you more (of My Blessings); but if you are thankless, verily, My punishment is indeed severe’” [Ibraaheem 14:7] Let’s, therefore, make thanking Allah part of our morning and evening remembrances (adhkar) to get more of Allah’s blessings in our lives. This is a great way to increase in wealth, redemption and pious offspring. When coupled with Tawbah & Sadaqa it is far more effective. This is for those who truly believe.

Gratitude’s importance was emphasized by the Prophet when he took the hand of Mu’aadh ibn Jabal and said: “O Mu’aadh, by Allah I love you, by Allah I love you.” Then he said, “I advise you, O Mu’aadh, do not fail to say this after every prayer:

O Allah help me to remember You, to thank You and to worship You properly.”

Allahumma A’inni Ala dhikrika wa shukrika wa husni ibadatika

After telling Mu'aadh that he loves him so dearly and then offers advice, try to empathise to better understand the sincerity and weight of the advice that follows. How deeply in his heart he hopes that Mu'aadh will adhere to that advice and how weighty the rewards must be.

Finally, remember that being grateful is not an option and that being grateful brings us closer to those whom we thank and appreciate.

(Received in an email from al Fitrah academy)

QOTD: Emergency feel-good numbers

Natural Remedies: Epsom Salts

Epsom salts are fast becoming a beauty staple. Costing a fraction of the price of designer potions - you can pick up a tub for £1.25 at your local chemist - they’re being hailed as a miracle fix for everything from greasy hair to a bloated stomach and lacklustre skin.

The salts’ healing properties were discovered in the early 17th century when a farmer living near Epsom, Surrey, discovered a spring rich in magnesium sulphate. It wasn’t long before the great and the good were flocking to ‘take the waters’ - and now they’re back on the beauty radar. Here’s our guide to an Epsom salts makeover...

Source

BLOAT BEATER
Bathing in Epsom salts helps to reduce water retention and tummy bloating, says life coach Janey Holliday. She recommends a bath three times a week in a dilution of two mugs of Epsom salts per bath.
‘When you have an Epsom salts bath, magnesium and sulphate are absorbed through the skin,’ she says.

‘Because our skin is porous, reverse osmosis takes place, which means toxins and excess fluids are drawn out of the skin as the goodness goes in.’

The end result is a flattened tummy. No wonder, then, that an Epsom salts bath is popular with models the night before a bikini or lingerie photoshoot.

Victoria Beckham reportedly takes such baths to streamline her figure. ‘I love Epsom salts baths to detox, revive muscles and de-puff my skin,’ says Gwyneth Paltrow. Celebrity trainer James Duigan, who works with Elle Macpherson, recommends using a body brush to stimulate the skin and open the pores before a 20-minute soak in an Epsom salts bath.

BOUNCY HAIR 
Epsom salts will soak up excess oil from the hair. Just add a handful when you shampoo and wash as normal.

The Epsom Salt Council recommends making a volumising mask by mixing one part hair conditioner with one part Epsom salts. Warm this mixture in a pan and work it through the hair. Leave on for 20 minutes and then rinse.

Hair will look fuller and feel softer, and the minerals will help to repair and strengthen heat-damaged ends. It’s particularly good for smoothing frizz out of curls.

PERFECT PINS 
For even-toned, summer-ready legs, you can lessen the appearance of bruises by applying an Epsom salts compress.

Soak a flannel in a cupful of cold water mixed with 2 tbsp Epsom salts and apply directly to the skin.

INSTANT FACIAL 
Exfoliate and deep cleanse the skin by mixing ½ tsp Epsom salts with your usual cleanser. Massage on to the skin, then rinse with cool water and dry.

‘This will boost your skin’s magnesium level,’ says therapist Philip Steward.

‘Epsom salts are a natural cleanser,’ he says. ‘They rejuvenate and rehydrate skin as well as removing toxins. Because the minerals are being absorbed through the skin, you can’t overdose on it.’

FOOT SOAK 
Got tired, hot feet? Not only will Epsom salts soothe aches and pains after a day in heels, they are an anti-inflammatory and will also help to reduce swelling and puffiness.

Add half a cup of Epsom salts to a large bowl of warm water and soak your feet for ten to  20 minutes.

The salt will remove odours and soften dry skin, which can then be removed easily with a pumice stone or foot file.

JET-LAG CURE 
Soaking in an Epsom salts bath after a long-haul flight has a sedative effect on the body.

The minerals help muscles and joints to relax and this leads to a more restful sleep, giving the body a chance to re-energise.

Magnesium sulphate activates the body’s healing mechanisms and many athletes take a soak the night before a race.

A long soak will also help with aches, stiffness, tightness and soreness after exercise. Rub achy areas with a flannel before getting in the bath. Don’t rinse off afterwards.

SKIN EXFOLIATOR 
Rubbing the skin with Epsom salts removes dead skin cells and promotes healing and rejuvenation.
Massage handfuls of Epsom salts over wet skin, starting with the feet and working upwards towards the face. Then have a bath to rinse.

The magnesium can also help reduce cellulite as it draws toxins and fluids from the skin.

Celebrity skincare guru Ole Henriksen recommends a shower smoothie: half-a-cup of Epsom salts, half-a-cup coffee grounds, 1 tsp eucalyptus oil and enough sesame oil to form a smooth paste. Mix together and work into the skin.

‘Epsom salts have amazing detoxifying properties,’ he says.

Post-scrub, your skin will look luminous, smooth and soft and will better absorb skincare products.
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Epsom salts are also hailed as a budget treatment for skin prone to spots.

Rich in minerals, they can be used as an exfoliator to remove dead skin and decrease the depth of acne scars.

INNER CLEANSE 
Ease an overloaded or poorly functioning digestive system with Epsom salts.

Magnesium sulphate works as a laxative, drawing water into the bowel to soften stools, making them easier to pass.

Epsom salts taken internally must be food grade and it’s best to take them before breakfast in a powder form that can be mixed with water.

There are possible side-effects, including gastro-intestinal irritation, diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting, so the advice is to speak to your doctor before taking Epsom salts.

Source

Feel a Million Dollars for £1 or Less

To feel full until lunch

Two eggs – 50p (based on £1.46 for six medium free-range eggs)
Studies show eggs for breakfast reduces calorie consumption throughout the day by up to 18%.
“That’s because they make you feel full for longer, cutting the desire to eat more,” explains Cheryl Wilson, head clinician at The Nutrition Coach (thenutritioncoach.co.uk).
Try boiled, poached or scrambled eggs with a slice of wholegrain toast.

To improve posture and help back pain

A ball of kitchen string – 50p (40m string ball from Wilkinson)
Chartered physiotherapist Sammy Margo says: “Every morning, stand tall and pull your tummy muscles in as far as you can. Now, release them by half. Tie the string around your middle – under your clothes – and keep it there all day.
“It acts a constant reminder to engage your core muscles, flattening stomach muscles, improving posture and helping to beat back pain.”

To beat the bloat

Mint leaves – 40p (based on 30g fresh mint leaves for 80p from Tesco)
Herbalists swear by mint for its anti-inflammatory effect on the gut, aiding better digestion and reducing bloat.
It also cleanses the mouth, zapping the nasty taste and furry tongue that often comes with it. Infuse some leaves in boiling water for a few minutes.

To get rid of verrucas

Duct tape – around £1 (available from hardware shops)
Studies show that it can work better than freezing treatments.
It’s not known if it’s down to the tape preventing oxygen reaching the wart or verruca, or a component of the tape itself. Dr Annabel Bentley, Medical Director for Bupa Health and Wellbeing says: “Cover the wart or verruca with tape for six days. "Then remove the tape, soak the wart or verruca in water and rub with a pumice stone. "Leave it uncovered overnight and apply more tape the next morning. Continue until it disappears.”

To soothe a cough

Panda All Natural Soft Liquorice Bar – 65p (from Holland & Barrett)
Liquorice root is used in various herbal cough suppressants and throat lozenges because it has expectorant, antiseptic, antiviral, antioxidant, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory benefits.
It’s thought to coat mucous membranes, helping to reduce inflammation and soothe a sore throat and tickly cough.

To ease heartburn and improve concentration

Wrigley’s sugar-free chewing gum – rrp 49p
Scientists say the saliva stimulated by chewing gum seems to neutralise digestive acid and help force fluids back to the stomach. The study, published in the Journal of Dental Research, asked volunteers to chew sugar-free gum for 30 minutes after heartburn-inducing meals. Gum can help you stay focused for longer on tasks that require continuous monitoring, say Cardiff University researchers in a study published in the British Journal of Psychology.

To relieve hay fever

Vaseline – £1 (pocket-sized tin at Poundland)
Smear a small amount of Vaseline just inside your nostrils to catch the pollen, preventing it travelling further up the nose and triggering an allergic reaction, says Allergy UK (allergyuk.org).
Remove it every two hours with a tissue and apply again. If you prefer to take an antihistamine, don’t pay through the nose for big brands. Boots Value Health Non-Drowsy Hayfever and Allergy Relief tablets (99p for seven) contain the same 10mg of active ingredient Loratadine as market leaders that cost four times as much.

To ease sciatica

Tennis ball – 20p (based on a pack of five for £1 at Poundland)
Tennis balls, the plastic spiky balls used for tumble dryers, or even a potato, are great for massaging tight buttocks and relieving the muscular pain of sciatica, explains Sammy. “Either sit on one or stand against a wall and place it against the affected area. By pressing into the muscle, the ball provides a pivot over which the muscles stretch. "This ‘digging in’ relieves the muscular tension. Repeat several times a day for maximum relief.”

To get a good sleep

Cherrygood Cherry juice – £1 (Asda)
A study from Northumbria University found that two daily glasses of Montmorency cherry juice helps you get an average 25 minutes extra shuteye a night by increasing levels of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep.

To soothe aching muscles and flatten your stomach

Cup (approximately 125g) of Epsom salts in bath water – 75p (based on 1kg bag at £5.95 from epsomsalts.co.uk)
The high magnesium content of Epsom salts means that they’re great for soothing sore, tired muscles and are popular with stars before red carpet events. Add one or two handfuls to a bath to draw out toxins and flatten your tummy.

To lower cholesterol

Handful of almonds – 50p (based on Tesco Wholefoods Snack Pack, 50g for £1)
Unsalted nuts, like almonds, are high in protein and good mono saturated fats, explains Cheryl. Compared with other nuts, almonds contain the highest levels of six key nutrients – fibre, magnesium, protein, potassium, copper and vitamin E. Although renowned for their healthy heart benefits, one study reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that a daily portion of almonds could cut your bad LDL cholesterol levels by 30%.

To boost your fitness and lose weight

Pedometer – £1 (Poundland)
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine, US, found that regularly using a pedometer is associated with significant increases in physical activity and weight loss and improvements in blood pressure.
After reviewing 26 studies involving 2,500 people who were mostly female, overweight and relatively inactive, the researchers found that pedometer users increased their physical activity by 2,491 steps per day and helped them increase their overall physical activity levels by 27%.

Source

Facts on Honey and Cinnamon

Then to eat of all the produce (of the earth), and find with skill the spacious paths of its Lord: there issues from within their bodies a drink of varying colours, wherein is healing for men: verily in this is a Sign for those who give thought.
Surat An- Nahl (16:69)

It is found that a mix of honey and Cinnamon cures most diseases. Honey is produced in most of the countries of the world. Scientists of today also note honey ...as very effective medicine for all kinds of diseases. Honey can be used without side effects which is also a plus.Today's science says that even though honey is sweet, when it is taken in the right dosage as a medicine, it does not harm even diabetic patients. Researched by western scientists:

HEART DISEASES: Make a paste of honey and cinnamon powder, put it on toast instead of jelly and jam and eat it regularly for breakfast. It reduces the cholesterol and could potentially save one from heart attack. Also, even if you have already had an attack studies show you could be kept miles away from the next attack. Regular use of cinnamon honey strengthens the heart beat. In America and Canada, various nursing homes have treated patients successfully and have found that as one ages the arteries and veins lose their flexibility and get clogged; honey and cinnamon revitalize the arteries and the veins.

ARTHRITIS: Arthritis patients can benefit by taking one cup of hot water with two tablespoons of honey and one small teaspoon of cinnamon powder. When taken daily even chronic arthritis can be cured. In a recent research conducted at the Copenhagen University, it was found that when the doctors treated their patients with a mixture of one tablespoon Honey and half teaspoon Cinnamon powder before breakfast, they found that within a week (out of the 200 people so treated) practically 73 patients were totally relieved of pain -- and within a month, most all the patients who could not walk or move around because of arthritis now started walking without pain.

BLADDER INFECTIONS: Take two tablespoons of cinnamon powder and one teaspoon of honey in a glass of lukewarm water and drink it. It destroys the germs in the bladder....who knew?

CHOLESTEROL: Two tablespoons of honey and three teaspoons of Cinnamon Powder mixed in 16 ounces of tea water given to a cholesterol patient was found to reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood by 10 percent within two hours. As mentioned for arthritic patients, when taken three times a day, any chronic cholesterol-could be cured. According to information received in the said Journal, pure honey taken with food daily relieves complaints of cholesterol.

COLDS: Those suffering from common or severe colds should take one tablespoon lukewarm honey with 1/4 spoon cinnamon powder daily for three days. This process will cure most chronic cough, cold, and, clear the sinuses, and it's delicious too!

UPSET STOMACH: Honey taken with cinnamon powder cures stomach ache and also is said to clear stomach ulcers from its root.

GAS: According to the studies done in India and Japan, it is revealed that when Honey is taken with cinnamon powder the stomach is relieved of gas.

IMMUNE SYSTEM: Daily use of honey and cinnamon powder strengthens the immune system and protects the body from bacterial and viral attacks. Scientists have found that honey has various vitamins and iron in large amounts. Constant use of Honey strengthens the white blood corpuscles (where DNA is contained) to fight bacterial and viral diseases.

INDIGESTION: Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of honey taken before food is eaten relieves acidity and digests the heaviest of meals

INFLUENZA: A scientist in Spain has proved that honey contains a natural 'Ingredient' which kills the influenza germs and saves the patient from flu.

LONGEVITY: Tea made with honey and cinnamon powder, when taken regularly, arrests the ravages of old age. Use four teaspoons of honey, one teaspoon of cinnamon powder, and three cups of boiling water to make a tea. Drink 1/4 cup, three to four times a day. It keeps the skin fresh and soft and arrests old age. Life spans increase and even a 100 year old will start performing the chores of a 20-year-old.

RASPY OR SORE THROAT: When throat has a tickle or is raspy, take one tablespoon of honey and sip until gone. Repeat every three hours until throat is without symptoms.

PIMPLES: Three tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder paste. Apply this paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it off the next morning with warm water. When done daily for two weeks, it removes all pimples from the root.

SKIN INFECTIONS: Applying honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts on the affected parts cures eczema, ringworm and all types of skin Infections.

WEIGHT LOSS: Daily in the morning one half hour beforebreakfast and on an empty stomach, and at night before sleeping, drink honey and cinnamon powder boiled in one cup of water. When taken regularly, it reduces the weight of even the most obese person. Also, drinking this mixture regularly does not allow the fat to accumulate in the body even though the person may eat a high calorie diet.

CANCER: Recent research in Japan and Australia has revealed that advanced cancer of the stomach and bones have been cured successfully. Patients suffering from these kinds of cancer should daily take one tablespoon of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder three times a day for one month.

FATIGUE: Recent studies have shown that the sugar content of honey is more helpful rather than being detrimental to the strength of the body. Senior citizens who take honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts are more alert and flexible. Dr. Milton, who has done research, says that a half tablespoon of honey taken in a glass of water and sprinkled with cinnamon powder, even when the vitality of the body starts to decrease, when taken daily after brushing and in the afternoon at about 3:00 P.M., the vitality of the body increases within a week.

BAD BREATH: People of South America, gargle with one teaspoon of honey and cinnamon powder mixed in hot water first thing in the morning so their breath stays fresh throughout the day.

HEARING LOSS: Daily morning and night honey and cinnamon powder, taken in equal parts restores hearing.

The Prophet (PBUH) said : 'Honey is a remedy for every illness and the Qur'an is a remedy for all illness of the mind, therefore I recommend to you remedies, the Qur'an and honey.' (Bukhari)

The Prophet (PBUH) himself used to drink a glass of honey and water each morning on an empty stomach

(Taken from http://fatalfacts.com/index.php?/topic/1308-facts-on-honey-and-cinnamon-it-is-found-that-a-mixture-of-honey-and-cinnamon-cures-most-diseases/ )

*Best type of honey to use is raw, unpasteurised honey.

1000 Good Deeds

Salaam,
I came across this amazing website which suggests good deeds you can do. The good deeds are based on the Qur'an and Sunnah and are inspiring.

http://1000gooddeeds.com/category/good-deeds/

They are up to 304 good deeds at the time of posting this.

Vitality Show 2013

Hi, just a quick post about the Vitality show that took place in Earl's Court March 2013!

The show took place over 4 days and we went on the weekend. The guy who took our tickets (Spencer Matthews from Made in Chelsea look-a-like) was kinda rude and when we first walked in, we couldn't see any fellow hijabis :( but saw 6-7 later on. The majority of the people there were 30+.

There were workshops where you could do yoga workouts or listen to talks and lots of different stalls for beauty, food and well being etc. They even had a few stalls selling hijabs (but you can get them for half or a third of the price elsewhere).

They gave out free goody bags with random items if you filled in a form:

It consisted of:

• Sakata Japanese rice crackers in sour cream and chive

• Loreal shampoo and conditioner sample

• Belvita yogurt crunch

• Sprite 
• Nivea Pure & Natural sample

• Sudocream sample

• Hermesetas sweetener pack

• Tate & Lyle Half spoon 20g :S

• 2 Coffee sachets

Vitality Show goody bag.

A different flavour in the Vitality show goody bag that my sis got- Roast tomato and balsamic.

They had a lovely stall selling bath products which reminded me of Lush. One of their displays was set out like a vintage tea party/cake stand. SO cute! Its called BOMB Cosmetics and their products are "natural and home made".

Bath time tea party?

Bath melts. Look like cupcakes right?

Scrubs and polishes

Other stalls included nail/brow bars, vegan cakes and breads, bakhour/oud, olives and baklava, Samina pure make up, teeth whitening, diary free "milk", jewellery, healthy snacks, you could also get your BMI tested and have a go on this exercise machine that vibrates your legs.

They also had a tooth whitening stall which I shall write about another day Insha Allah.

Did any of you go? Would you go in the future?