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Meadow Market Matters: Volume 6
The Find-your-Rhythm Edition
January’s hustle and bustle has sort of made way for a new 'normal’, as people and families have settled in to new schedules and routines. This is indeed true for us, who are slowly getting used to the fact that a second child has now left home. We are down to a family of 3 on most days, missing the other two dearly, yet extremely grateful for who they are becoming. It is good to see them continue with habits we tried to instill in them by years of setting an example.
How we live our lives is indeed in many ways a sum total of habits and practices. Therefore, this month, we have a suggested daily practice for better health. Read all about it here below.
You’ll also find news about exciting product updates, including a big sale on artwork.
Ancient practice to consider: Oil pulling
I recently spoke to an experienced dentist, who told me she clearly sees a difference between the mouths and teeth of patients that do frequent oil pulling and those who don’t. This conversation motivated me to take up the ancient practice of oil pulling again. There are conflicting opinions on the internet about whether oil pulling is indeed beneficial, but I reckoned that a dentist’s testimony is proof enough!
What oil pulling is: Basically, you’re swishing edible oil (like coconut-, sesame- or olive oil) in your mouth for 15-20 minutes to remove toxins, reduce bacteria and improve oral health, before spitting it out again. This can be done daily, or at least several times a week - ideally first thing in the morning.
How to do oil pulling:
· Put 1 tablespoon of your chosen oil in your mouth. You might want to start with less, say ½ teaspoon, and slowly increase the volume as you become more used to it.
· Close your mouth and swish the oil around while breathing through your nose. Aim for 15-20 minutes or up to 30 minutes, but, again, you might want to start with 5 minutes and build up from there.
· Spit the oil out into a tissue or the rubbish bin. Don’t spit it into the sink, as it will clog the drain.
· Rinse your mouth several times with warm (not hot) water.
· Brush your teeth as normal.
Consider adding a drop of an essential oil of your choice for added benefits, for example peppermint for a fresh breath, clove to soothe toothache, or frankincense and oregano to fight inflammation. It is advisable to use organic essential oils from a reputable source for oral applications.
Oil pulling doesn’t have to take up a lot of precious time. I find it works well to do the swishing while loading the washing machine, packing out the dishwasher and even prepping breakfast. My family knows by now why I can’t always talk when they enter the kitchen!
Product updates: What’s new on our shelves?
We’re continuing to increase our range of Own It Cosmetics. This month, we have two new additions, namely Hydrating Primer and Cream-to-powder blush.
Haven’t heard about skin primers before? Welcome to the club! They are designed to fill in pores and fine lines on the face to prepare it for a much smoother (and long-lasting) appliction of foundation and make-up. I’m pleasantly surprised how the OIC Hydrating Primer can also be used to plump up the skin without applying make-up. Not all primers are equal, though. Meadow Market appreciates that OIC Hydrating Primer doesn’t contain silicones but utilises plant-based ingredients instead. We wouldn’t want to stock anything that isn’t good for you! At R250 for 50 ml, this is a little luxury you can afford.
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