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Modern mothers are the ultimate jugglers. With all those balls in the air it is easy to feel overwhelmed, fatigued, and depleted. Supplements can be an effective way to help balance your energy, mood, focus and wellbeing so you can balance your family’s busy schedule (and your own) with ease.

SUPPS R US receives regular requests from women looking for support of:

  • Workouts and weight loss
  • Sleep
  • Beauty – hair, skin and nails
  • Mood, energy and mental clarity

 Workout and weight loss

There’s a range of supplements available to help support your workout and weight loss regime.

Pre Workout:

Oxyshred has mood enhancing and energy-boosting benefits to help women achieve more productive and sustained training sessions, resulting in better performance and increased weight loss.

C4 is another popular performance pre-workout supplement to assist with improving performance. Women often consume BCAA (branched-chain amino acids) or EAA’s (essential amino acids) in the gym to naturally help support muscular endurance. Look for electrolytes in supplements to maximise hydration.

Post Workout:

As a general rule, if you train more than 90 minutes per session, then you should consume carbohydrates post-training. If your goal is hypertrophy, then a 2:1 ratio of carbs to fast-digesting whey protein isolate within 30 mins of your workout is advised. Protein powders help to improve recovery and support lean muscle.

Whey protein isolate or hydrolysed whey isolate are great choices for women, thanks to their fast digesting nature. They are rapidly absorbed and contain fewer fats and carbs than blends and concentrates. SUPPS R US recommend this one, with added collagen for a welcome beauty boost.

If weight loss, in particular, is your primary goal, SUPPS R US has a range of products to help increase metabolism, gain lean muscle and burn fat. Try Ghost – Burn v2 & Amino v2 Combo and X50 – Green Tea 30 Serves | Twin Pack as starting points.

Sleep

Scientists have proved that sleep is an essential ingredient for health and wellbeing. Without sufficient quality sleep, our executive function, coordination, mood, stress tolerance, immunity, focus, endurance, and so much more become dangerously compromised.

A good night’s sleep, especially for breastfeeding mothers and mothers of young children, can be hard to come by. Poor sleep cycles can result in a cycle of insomnia and sometimes lead to bouts of anxiety and depression too.

SUPPS R US recommends adding products like EHP Labs OxySleep, Force Element Performance NIGHT OPS, Body Science HydroxyBurn Sleep Rx, and ATP Science Adrenal RX to help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer and achieve quality sleep. Wake feeling rested, refreshed and ready to tackle anything that’s thrown your way.

Energy, Vitality and Focus

Often, when women experience burnout and suffer symptoms of brain fog, stress, fatigue, heavy limbs, malaise and restlessness, their adrenal systems need support. B Vitamins are powerful in supporting the adrenal system and renewing energy and vitality. Containing proven ingredients including Rhodiola, as well as Vitamin C, Zinc, Magnesium and Vitamin B6, Macro Mike Macro Adrenal sachets help support stress management, energy, stamina, immunity and general wellbeing. For a natural, caffeine-free boost, incorporate a cuppa of Before You Speak Adrenal Reset Coffee into your morning routine.

Boost your overall vitality and wellbeing with the addition of super greens. Look for clean ingredients, natural sweeteners and dense nutritional ingredient lists. The highly recommended Vitality Switch super greens powder is densely packed with goodness, including collagen, probiotics, mushrooms, organic super greens and Himalayan Shilajit to help support brain function, digestion and gut health, energy and nutrient absorption.

Beauty

Collagen is vital for plump, glowing skin, strong connective tissue, healthy nails and hair. As you age, your ability to produce collagen reduces, causing the skin to sag and wrinkle.

Look for clean, quality collagen products. R1 Collagen is 100% superior grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine hide collagen peptides that support hair, skin, nails and joints. Add the powder to smoothies (or another beverage of choice, like your morning coffee or tea), make collagen gummy treats, or incorporate it into your breakfast oats. Collagen is extremely versatile and can easily boost many meals.

SUPPS R US is your one-stop-shop for better health. Optimise your workouts, restore your energy and gain back your sense of vitality – even as you juggle the never-ending demands of motherhood.

 

 

 

 

Offspring Managing Editor, Kate Durak, reviews thermage skin tightening treatment.

I recently had Thermage on my face at Balabala Laser Clinic in Hay Street, Perth. The results for Thermage are fantastic. In my opinion, it is the best option currently on the market for skin tightening and lifting that does not require surgery.

I am a 45-year-old mother of two, and I am conscious of sagging skin, particularly around my jowls Thermage is fantastic for lifting the skin. There is no downtime, and the results are natural, taking three months to fully manifest. Based on experience, the treatment lasts more than a year.

I discussed my skin aging concerns and options with the knowledgeable and attentive staff at Balabala Laser Clinic. The therapists were very experienced and professional. I immediately felt comfortable and at ease when meeting with my therapist, who listened carefully to my needs and concerns.

My therapist explained that, during ageing, the elastin and collagen in the skin break down faster than the body can rebuild. This causes wrinkles, skin laxity and pockets of loose, sagging skin.

The Thermage treatment takes around 45 minutes, and it is a non-surgical skin treatment that stimulates the production of new connective tissue in the dermis and rebuilds and reinforces the skin from within. There is no downtime.

Thermage uses radiofrequency technology to heat the skin and stimulate collagen renewal in the skin’s deeper layers. The heat energy is focused on a precise depth within the skin, and cooling technology protects the upper epidermal layers. This technique improves the smoothness and texture of the skin’s surface.

The device was applied all over my face in small sections. I could feel slight pressure and a deep warming sensation – this indicates that collagen is reaching an adequate temperature for tightening the skin.

I felt very relaxed in the clinic, and my skin instantly looked brighter and tighter, and I experienced no redness from the treatment.

The Thermage treatment immediately tightens the existing collagen structures and then continues improvement over the next six months as collagen production is activated.

A month following treatment, I am pleased with the results – my skin has tightened and feels smoother and glowing.

A curated list of the coolest Aussie mum-owned stores to browse, ranging from beauty to jewellery to baby essentials!

 

Photo via Instagram @HausofDizzy

Haus of Dizzy

Haus of Dizzy founder Kristy Dickinson, proud Wiradjuri woman and single mum designs and hand makes beautiful, playful statement jewellery that celebrates her culture and often communicates a strong social and political message.

Eco Tan by Sonya Driver

Founded by mother, Sonya Driver, after a period of life upheaval, Eco Tan offers a beautiful range of certified organic skincare, tanning and body care products. Sonya has since launched a not-for-profit ‘The Miracle Made Foundation’ that assists in creating jobs for the local community and beyond.

Rudie Nudie Designs

New mum, Jacqui, knew the importance of nappy free play for little ones but was equally aware of the hassle the mess it involved caused. Enter Nudie Rudie, machine washable, waterproof playmats with a soft snuggly overlay. Taking the mess out of nappy free time in style.

 

Jellystone Designs

Mum of three, Claire, took on Jellystone Designs as a creative outlet, since then the brand has flourished taking home awards, introducing new team members and building their collections. Jellystone is the industry leader in creating ‘functional, safe and fun silicone teethers, toys, and oral input devices.’

Billie and Byron

A beautiful curation of products for babyhood. Billie and Byron was founded by former journalist, Lauren Dunne, whilst on maternity leave. Toys, clothing, nursery décor, keepsakes, gifts and essentials are stocked from an array of Australian owned brands.

Photo via Instagram @sarahmariefahd

Tmrw Kids

An online marketplace for children’s clothing and accessories founded and curated by husband-and-wife Sarah and Matty Fahd. Tmrw stands for ‘Today Must Right our Wrongs’ and represents their sustainable methods. Supporting local brands, maintaining affordability, environmental consciousness and bringing joy to kids’ fashion are the cornerstones of their business.

 

Why we need our beauty sleep

Sleep is essential for healing the skin, with quality beauty sleep you will wake up looking fresh and radiant.

Beauty sleep is a must when you’re trying to look after your physical appearance including your skin. Not only is sleep important for energy levels, but it can work wonders in helping your skin appear more youthful and radiant. Sleep can also help with better skin hydration, skin wrinkling and fewer breakouts.

Sleep is a fundamental part of wellness, and it nourishes the mind, body and soul. In addition, it contributes to looking more youthful and can be a critical element of beauty.

During a good night’s sleep, your body removes toxic waste by-products that have accumulated throughout the day. Also, the body removes dead blood cells that can build up in the skin. If we don’t get enough quality sleep, we could notice skin imbalances such as dehydration, redness and wrinkles.

Specialists recommend that we should sleep seven to nine hours per night of good quality sleep. Here are a few tips and tricks you can try to achieve the deep sleep that your body craves each night. These simple beauty sleep tricks will leave your skin feeling fresh and glowing when you wake up. In addition, you will notice fewer wrinkles, a glowing complexion, brighter, less puffy eyes, healthier, fuller hair and your skincare products work better.

How to get quality beauty sleep

1.   Use a silk pillow for your skin

Switching your cotton or linen pillowcase to a silk pillowcase can make all the difference to your skin! It has been proven that sleeping with a silk pillowcase can reduce breakouts, be anti-aging, reduce sleep creases, reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Sleeping with a silk pillowcase can also leave your hair feeling hydrated. Lilysilk is an Australian brand that sells inexpensive silk pillowcases that can combat sleep-related concerns.

2.   Use a humidifier in your bedroom

Hydration is what keeps skin looking plump and fresh. But when we spend all night fast asleep, we aren’t hydrating by drinking water. As a result, your skin loses moisture and elasticity, which means it’s more likely to crack and have irritations and blemishes.

To help prevent skin dehydration, invest in a humidifier for your bedroom. Humidifiers work by taking water from a series of chambers and pushing it into the air, making that air less dry and, therefore, gentler on your skin. For the best hydration results, turn on the humidifier after you apply your nighttime serums and moisturisers.

3.   Exercise regularly

Exercise is another healthy habit that will help you get the ultimate beauty sleep. There is a mountain of research that shows physical exercise improves sleep quality.

As you can tell, the link between physical activity and sleep is well-established. Moreover, decades of research show that getting plenty of exercise is “a healthy, safe, inexpensive, and simple means of improving sleep.”

4.   Practise ways of having better dreams

Every night as we drift off to sleep, we enter the mysterious land of dreams. Psychologists explain that dreams are the processing of both our conscious and subconscious thoughts, but the phenomenon of dreaming is still somewhat unexplainable.

One thing is for sure when we have a night of pleasant dreams, it not only lifts our mood for the day ahead, but it also makes sleeping more enjoyable and relaxing.

Researchers found that participants introduced to sweet smells during the night were more likely to have positive dreams. When bad smells surrounded participants throughout the night, however, it helped to create nightmares.  Essential oils have been proven to have healing qualities that can also be used to clear negative energies and restore peace.

5.   Practise deep breathing

After a long, stressful day, you expect to fall asleep quickly. But often, a long stressful day can sometimes keep

your mind going, which in turn makes it very difficult to switch off – even when you’re exhausted. Enter the “4-7-8” method.

The “4-7-8” method is a breathing technique that slows down your thought process and relaxes your body which helps you get to sleep faster. This breathing technique slows your heart rate and allows your mind to focus on something other than what stressful events happened that day. But, unfortunately, it also increases the amount of oxygen in your bloodstream and releases harmful carbon dioxide that can be toxic to your skin.

Here’s how you do it:

  1. Place the tip of your tongue against the ridge of tissue just behind your upper front teeth and keep it there throughout the exercise.
  2. Exhale completely through your mouth, making a whooshing sound.
  3. Close your mouth and inhale quietly through your nose for a count of four.
  4. Hold your breath for a count of seven.
  5. Exhale completely through your mouth, making a whooshing sound for a count of eight.
  6. That’s one cycle. Repeat steps 2-5 three more times for a total of four cycles.

6.   Keep the temperature low

At night, your body’s natural temperature declines. Therefore, keeping the temperature in your bedroom low is suitable for both your metabolism and your blood flow. This is important because improving your blood flow helps oxygenate your skin, keeping it plump and even-toned for the day ahead. Maintaining a cool temperature in your bedroom will also help reduce redness in your skin.

The National Sleep Foundation recommends keeping your bedroom between 60 and 67 degrees for an optimal night’s sleep. “Why so cold?” you may ask. Because researchers believe this range best allows your body to redirect energy that would typically be used for maintaining temperature into other repair and rejuvenation functions.

7.   Turn off electronics one hour before bed

Electronics such as tablets, laptops, smartphones, TV, and even some light bulbs (e.g. LED) emit blue light, which delays the release of melatonin and can keep you awake long into the night.

Replace bedroom light bulbs (such as LED and other energy-efficient designs) with bulbs that emit a more natural white light. This will help your brain prepare to release melatonin, which enables you to get restful beauty sleep.

8.   Try stress-reduction techniques

Stress and sleep are deeply intertwined. Studies have shown that high levels of stress can disrupt sleep. At the same time, a lack of sleep can cause stress.

Here are some techniques for reducing stress before you hit the hay:

  • Practice simple yoga poses
  • Meditate 
  • Try deep breathing exercises (see tip number six)
  • Massage your temples, forehead, and neck
  • Clear your mind of negative thoughts

Here are suggestions for other activities you can include in your bedtime routine:

  • Read a book or magazine in bed
  • Meditate or do some yoga to wind down
  • Use aromatherapy candles in the bedroom to wind down
  • Keep a journal or diary and write about your day
  • Listen to soft music
  • Take a warm shower or bath

Product Review: Offspring Magazine editor, Kate Durack, has Aesthetics Rx anti-aging skin peel

I am a 45-year-old mother of two, and I am becoming conscious of my skin aging, sagging and wrinkling, so I am keen to try various products and treatments that offer possible solutions. I was recently offered to experience an anti-aging rejuvenate skin peel by Aesthetics RX at Silk Laser Clinic in Karrinyup.

For the 10 days prior to the peel treatment, I was encouraged by a skin expert from Aesthetics Rx to form a morning and night step-by-step beauty regime. This regime consisted of eight recommended products by Aesthetics Rx to get my skin in the best condition before the peel.

The eight products included their Revitalising Foaming Cleanser, C serum, B serum, Ultimate Serum, A serum, Spf30 with Zinc, Daily Moisturiser Hydrating and H20 balm. In addition, it was also recommended I cease using hair removal techniques such as electrolysis and wax or laser on the face and not go in the direct sun without SPF30-50. I was also asked to avoid hair colouring, straightening and hair drying treatments.

The Rejuvenate Peel by Aesthetics Rx is a 20-minute treatment designed to activate cell turnover and exfoliate the skin’s surface to reveal a brighter, more hydrated, youthful complexion with reduced congestion and hyperpigmentation. The benefits of this peel include:

  • Combating skin ageing for the appearance of a youthful complexion.
  • Improving the cell renewal process.
  • Reducing the appearance of fine lines.
  • Assisting and improving the appearance of congestion and acne.

Aesthetics Rx uses skin-reviving ingredients to help renew the dermis of the skin, where two essential proteins live, collagen and elastin, which act as building blocks for your skin. Aesthetics Rx products ingredients include hydroxy acids, vitamins A and C to produce signals to turn on the production of collagen cells. As a result, the damaged dermis is pushed down deeper into the skin with new collagen production, essentially allowing a nicer ‘new’ layer to emerge.

Immediately after my skin treatment by Aesthetics Rx, my skin felt rejuvenated and clean, with a slight sensation of tightness. However, I was left with hydrated and glowing skin. I experienced no downtime, and I was pleased with the results.

Product Review: Five cosmetic skincare brands that will leave your skin glowing

These skin care products can treat various common skin concerns, such as aging skin, dry skin, dull skin, oily skin, and it even includes skincare suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding women. The types of skincare products include moisturisers, oils, serums, cleansers and SPF. Here is a breakdown of the top five brands that will leave your skin glowing throughout the year.

Enbacci Complete Body Lotion

Enbacci Complete Body Lotion is bursting with skin-loving ingredients that nourish and hydrate your whole body. This body lotion is formulated with the stem cells of the Saponaria Pumila (Dwarf Soapwart) plant, which has the power to protect your skin from daily environmental challenges, renew your skin barrier to promote elasticity and skin firming. Other ingredients include Sunflower Seed Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Shea Butter, Macadamia Nut Oil and vitamins A, B and C, which will leave your skin feeling soft and reduce the appearance of fine lines ideal for anti-ageing.

RTP: $80.00 at www.enbacci.com

ESK Pregnancy Kit

This pregnancy kit is a safe and rejuvenating five products all scientifically crafted for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. With the benefits of the best anti-aging ingredients that scientific evidence has to offer, it excludes chemicals that may be harmful to your baby and is also gentle enough for a period that often sees changes in your skin.

Hydroxy Cleanser – Those with normal to oily skin will appreciate this non-foaming/soap-free cleanser that makes skin look fresh and rejuvenated. Thanks to the key ingredients of alpha and beta hydroxy acids, which help cleanse gently and exfoliate the skin leaving it feeling conditioned and smooth.

B Calm – Beyond instant hydration, this facial moisturiser will help calm sensitized, oily or acne prone skin. It contains vitamin B3 5% which play a role in managing the skins natural oil production, and acne and rosacea. This B calm is a great anti-inflammatory agent to add into your beauty regime.

Zinc Shade Zinc is a critical component to add to your skincare routine if you want to protect your skin from the sun. Zinc shade is a daily moisturiser that gives you all the protection you need from UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. In addition, it helps minimise the appearance of skin aging and improve the appearance of photoaged skin.

Smooth Serum Hydroxy Acid exfoliating serum for use at night. Renews the skin by promoting skin cell turnover. The result: a more balanced and smoother skin and a more even skin tone.

Englighen – Light moisturising cream with niacinamide and a tyrosinase inhibitor depigmenting ingredient. Niacinamide is an effective multipurpose ingredient, having evidence for managing the skin’s natural oil production, acne and rosacea. It also has evidence for improving the skin’s barrier function, reducing hyperpigmentation, wrinkles and fine lines, and acting as an anti-inflammatory agent.

RTP: $351.00 at www.eskcare.com

skinstitut Collagen Plus

Collagen Plus, by skinstitut,  combines peptides with antioxidants to improve health vitality and appearance. It uses vitamins and botanical extracts to aid absorption and strengthen the skin barrier, reducing free radical damage.

Collagen Plus incorporates the following ingredients:

●  Hydrolysed Marine Collagen supplements the body’s natural collagen to help support healthy hair, skin and nails.

●  Vitamin C helps with collagen absorption, improving skin texture, fine lines, wrinkles and skin laxity.

●  Vitamin E is high in antioxidants and helps support cell function and skin health.

●  Zinc helps to repair skin due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

●  Grape Seed Extracts is high in antioxidants and can help improve collagen synthesis and reduce inflammation.

RTP: $49.00 at skinstitut.com

skinstitut Moisturiser Defence Ultra-Dry

If you’re someone that suffers from dry skin, mild eczema, dermatitis, or premature aging, this skinstitut Moisturiser Defence Ultra-Dry will become a lifesaver. It will leave your skin feeling hydrated and nourished all day whilst revving up the skin’s natural collagen and elastin production, which is ideal for keeping that youthful glow.

$49.00 – 50ml at www.skinstitut.com

We Are Feel Good Coco Milk

The Coco Milk from We Are Feel Good strikes a nice balance of a lushly emollient moisturising experience that leaves skin feeling soft and comfortably hydrated but not greasy. This moisturiser is enriched with natural ingredients like Coconut Oil, Macadamia Oil, Aloe Vera, Shea Butter and Vitamin E to leave your skin feeling silky smooth all day long. Also, you will not get over this delicious smell of coconut.

$24.95 at www.wearefeelgoodinc.com.au

We Are Feel Good Sunscreen Lotion Spf50

We are Feel Good Sunscreen Lotion Spf50 helps temper skin’s oily shine while protecting from UV damage. This sunscreen will last up to 4 hours water resistant to give you maximum coverage without feeling greasy on your skin.

$27.95 – 200ml at www.wearefeelgoodinc.com.au

Revitalising Foaming Cleanser

If you want a gentle cleanser to use twice a day to reduce redness and increase skin elasticity, this cleanser is for you. This gel-type foaming cleanser removes makeup, oil and pollution while soothing and moisturising the skin. Just some of the skin-loving ingredients include Aloe Vera Juice, Panthenol (vitamin B), Grapefruit, Spearmint and Essential Oils to ensure your skin is left feeling moisturised and calmed all day.

$59.00 – 125ml at aestheticsrx.com.au

Daily Moisturiser Hydrating

This light moisturiser is packed with antioxidants that will help protect your skin from day to day environmental and sun damage. It has got all the skin-boosting ingredients from Edelweiss, Kakadu Plum Extract, Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E and Essential Oils that will make your skin feel smoother than ever.

$99.00 – 50ml at aestheticsrx.com.au

C serum 23%

Aesthetics C serum is cult-favourite for a good reason – it is packed with powerful antioxidants complex of l-ascorbic and ferulic acids to reveal a brighter, firmer, and more-even looking complexion. It will eliminate and repair the visible signs of ageing caused by environmental stressors like the sun. This serum boasts antioxidants like Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Ferulic Acid to help brighten skin and fight signs of premature aging.

$109.00 – 30ml at aestheticsrx.com.au

B Serum

If you’re someone who suffers from dry skin, this 48-moisture serum is a must-have! This serum is packed with all the good stuff to revitalise and strengthen your skin. This concentrated serum delivers intense hydration and nourishment while reviving the skin’s natural collagen production and stimulating fibroblast. In addition, it contains all the essential ingredients such as Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Hyaluronic Acid and Sodium that your skin needs to glow.

$109.00 – 30ml at aestheticsrx.com.au

Ultimate Serum

The ultimate serum is packed with all the good stuff to give tired, dull, pigmentated and ageing skin the boost it needs. This serum includes Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid and Botanical Extracts. Niacinamide (a form of Vitamin B3) is the main ingredient to reduce the look of pores and appearance of wrinkles and keep your skin hydrated, plumped and glowing.

$109.00 – 30ml at aestheticsrx.com.au

H20 Balm

Protect and replenish the skin with this H2o balm. The H2o balm is a soft, fragrance-free balm formulated to help protect, heal, and regenerate the skin. The key ingredient in the H2o balm is polysaccharides, which assists with scar healing, repair, and restoration. This balm is often recommenced following laser and skin treatments.

$99.00 – 125ml at aestheticsrx.com.au

 

SPF30 with Zinc

Any good skincare routine should start with an SPF. This Aesthetics RX sunscreen provides broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection thanks to the mineral sunscreen zinc oxide without adding extra oils. Ingredients such as zinc will protect your face from UV rays without feeling sticky or heavy on the skin.

$59.00 – 75ml at aestheticsrx.com.au

FOXY BEGINNINGS keepsakes are the epitome of bespoke children’s products and every beautiful creation is lovingly handcrafted by our talented women artisans.

This WA-based business was founded in 2019 by Mana Simpson, as a passion project after the birth of her daughter. An aerospace engineer with an MBA, who worked full-time whilst being a new mum – Mana decided to combine her passion for sustainable and eco-friendly children’s toys with her drive for gender equity and a desire to empower women in marginalised communities. Focused on style, sustainability and philanthropy, she conceptualised a brand which combined ethical employment practices, unique designs, earth friendly materials and high-quality craftswomenship in a philanthropic business model.

Mana’s strong belief in the value of philanthropic efforts and an ideal to see a long-term and lifelong positive impact saw her build a business where she could hire and train women (our artisans) in developing countries to ethically handcraft beautiful, eco-friendly and sustainable children’s toys. By hiring and up-skilling these ladies, there is not only a positive impact on their current situation, but also the building of a foundation for their future and the future of their children and families.

Foxy Beginnings has since employed over 17 women across the globe and recently engaged a volunteer-run charity organisation in Indonesia to help develop the necessary infrastructure for the women in the village of Amed – where they have been severely impacted by the global pandemic; losing incomes, livelihoods and even the most basic of resources to survive – to become part of the Foxy Beginnings team. Philanthropic efforts through this collaboration will allow us to provide the necessary tools and equipment for the women of Amed to be trained and, subsequently, begin crafting high-quality, handmade products, using natural and environmentally-friendly materials – which will be marketed and sold internationally.

Mana says about the business and her vision: “I strongly believe in philanthropic efforts to make a life long impact on marginalised communities and the next generations. I am passionate about education and training women to become independent financially and to provide support for their families and their children. This is how I can ensure I am breaking the vicious cycle of poverty for these marginalised communities.”

Owning a small business in the current environment is more challenging than ever. The proof is in the number of small businesses which have closed their doors due to the impact of COVID, as the expense of logistics and materials have tripled in some countries – which impacts the cost of products and lowers the margin to remain profitable. However, there are new business models emerging. Businesses that are focused on giving back to impacted communities, whilst still creating quality products for their market and establishing a strong foundation for expansion and up-scaling. Foxy Beginnings is built on this strong ethos and our business model is focused on our belief that education and up-skilling is the key to having a lifelong, positive impact.

They separate themselves from other brands by ensuring that their heirloom quality children’s toys are not only eco-friendly, but they are also made to last and designed to be passed down from generation to generation. Through tireless design development alongside gifted artisans, they are able to ensure that every single product meets the high standards that we set for our brand. They strive to remain transparent in there business practices and are passionate about compensating artisans fairly.

We hope that the future of Foxy Beginnings will see their stylish and sustainable creations become a household name and that their philanthropic business model will bring more and more sustained employment and financial independence to our highly-skilled women artisans in marginalised and disadvantaged communities around the world.

To see the full range of Foxy Beginnings products, go to: www.foxybeginings.com.au

Getting creative is a great way children can find their voice on big issues. This year, thousands of children have made artworks to celebrate the animals and plants they love. But their message is one for the adults.

When 10-year-old Scarlett Pawson sat down to paint her entry for this years’ Wild At Art threatened species art competition she was thinking back to the bushfires more than a year ago, and the already vulnerable Australian animals so severely impacted by these fires.

“I decided to paint three baby animals in handmade pouches. I painted a wombat, a brush-tailed rock wallaby and a koala,” she explained.

Photo: Tayna Pawson

“Last year during the Black Summer bushfires I felt very sad about all the animals who were injured and died. My brother and I learnt how to use the sewing machine and we made lots of pouches for the baby animals. I made a pouch with the message ‘GET WELL SOON, LOVE SCARLETT’.

“When Covid hit, people forgot about all the animals who got harmed and who are still hurting from bushfires. I made this artwork to remind everyone there are animals who are still injured. I hope my painting will inspire people to keep protecting our wonderful wildlife,” says Scarlett.

Photo: Tayna Pawson

Scarlett is one of many children who submitted their art as part of Wild At Art : an Australian art competition for kids. The competition invited children aged 5–12 to highlight Australia’s extinction crisis and the threats facing our wildlife, through their art.

It might sound like a heavy issue for kids to tackle but it’s one many children care deeply about. Some kids across the country are already worried about losing our unique animals and plants.

Creating an artwork that shows a threatened plant or animal they love helps them give voice to this issue in a creative way.

“It lets children like me express our feelings. We can’t vote, we can’t give suggestions to our government. But we can build awareness throughout the art,” says Scarlett.

“I feel our government isn’t doing enough to protect our wildlife. Those animals have no voice … it is our responsibility to speak up so our government does something about it.”

Winners were announced on September 7 — National Threatened Species Day. View more of the finalists in this online gallery.

Other beautiful entries by children across Australia:

“Leadbeater’s possums are so tiny and cute but there’s not many left in the wild. Humans and bushfires are destroying their homes. In the painting the possum lives on the last tree and misses her family. When I grow up I could be a possum expert scientist and make potions to save them.” — Alice, 6.

“I chose the Wollemi Pine because it is from when the dinosaurs were alive and is more than 90 million years old. It has interesting shapes in its branches.” — Eleanor, 5.

“Weedy sea dragons lose their habitats mostly due to human action and habitat loss. I live near Cabbage Tree Bay in Manly NSW where they nest but I have not seen any yet easily while snorkelling. Marine scientists are building seahorse hotels all around Sydney for the endangered White seahorse. I hope it will create awareness to how vulnerable all seahorse’s are.” — Elizabeth, 10.

“I love frogs because they are so cute. Their sleepy eyes and round fingers are my favorite. Green spotted frogs with lily pads are one of the most peaceful scenes I have ever seen. When is the last time you listened to the croaking of frogs? 30% of 240 species of frogs are endangered already which is a huge amount and so sad. In the last couple of years about 51 million frogs were killed by bushfire which has shown how vulnerable they are. We should protect frogs, stop climate change and keep their habitats before they become extinct. All frog-related memory is precious, including mine. Frogs must be inherited.“ — Hubert,  8.

“I chose the flying fox because it is a cool animal which does not deserve to go extinct. It is harmless to most creatures and looks awesome. Did you know that some flying foxes have a wingspan of 1.5 meters (5 feet)? They can also live for around 12-15 years. Sometimes they can also live for 30 years. Flying foxes are currently endangered because of snakes, birds of prey and humans.” — Jungwoon (Andrew), 11.

Wild At Art is a collaboration between ACF and Forestmedia Network

The new JBL Xtreme 3 is the perfect speaker for families.

Whether I’m out with my family for a picnic, having a day at the beach, or simply relaxing poolside – this new speaker from JBL offers newfound ease to carry music with me wherever I go.

Man and woman at campground, JBL speaker in forgeround
JBL Xtreme 3 designed to go where you go

Most speakers are fragile, lose battery quickly and can be a hazard around the little ones. Often, they have to be plugged into the wall and require hours of charging and on top of that, they can contribute to the endless black-hole of similar-looking cords – all with individual and specific purposes. With a convenient USB-C charging cord that is likely to power a number of your devices, this speaker is designed with the user in mind.

SOUND CONTROL:

 What I love the most about the Xtreme 3 is the beautiful and rich depth of sound. With sensitive volume control that is easily adjusted with buttons along the topside of the device granting me the versatility to host a house full of guests, or to simply soundtrack a relaxing night in.

JBL Xtreme 3 Speaker
Powerful sound: four drivers and two pumping JBL Bass Radiators.

DURABLE:

Water-proof and dust-proof, this speaker can survive all the elements. Eliminating any concern over preserving my new and expensive toy – the speaker can be submerged for up to half an hour within a metre of water. Sand on the beach? Splashes of water from the pool? No problem. Plus, this makes for easy cleaning – whether it needs a good rinse from sand or dirt or just a quick wipe down.

USE IT ANYWHERE:

With a busy family that is on the go: parties, camping trips, beach holidays, backyard BBQs…the list goes on –it’s handy to have a speaker that can keep up with me and last the distance. After just 2.5 hours of charging, the speaker is juiced up with 15-hour battery life.

Dancer with JBL Speaker

BUILT TO LAST:

The durability of the speaker is yet another bonus, with grips along the speaker base making it non-slip. But, even better yet is the sturdy make that allows for peace of mind should it be subject to any rough and tumble around the house.

Girls holding hands skateboarding carrying speaker
Carry strap for all day, everyday use

CONVENIENT:

The new JBL Xtreme 3 rises to the challenge and offers features I didn’t realise I had been missing. Days of either leaving the speaker behind or awkwardly lugging an extra and soon deemed unnecessary item around with me are over. I particularly enjoy the convenience of easily transporting it outside when entertaining guests, for a weekend away or around the house for my children’s birthday, all with thanks to its lightweight and carry strap.

Blue JBL Xtreme 3
Blue JBL Xtreme 3

SIMPLE AND EASY TO USE FEATURES INCLUDE:

  • Extended battery life
  • USB-C Charging port – a new feature for increased user-friendliness, the speaker can be charged with any USB-C cable, so you don’t have to pack different cords
  • USB port in the back – out for the day and running low on battery? Plug your phone cord in the back and let the speaker charge your phone
  • Wireless Bluetooth connectivity – connect your phone via Bluetooth and have access to all of your or the kid’s favourite music
  • Party Boost – the speaker comes with a new function to easily connect to other JBL speakers and increase the sound and distance, perfect for bigger groups and families for compatible listening
  • Easy-to-use control buttons – situated between the handles on the top of the device to you can: power up, connect to Bluetooth, adjust the volume, play and pause, and activate Party Boost; the speaker is simple to operate
  • The speaker comes with a starter guide, adaptor and power cord + regional plug, carry strap and safety sheet

SPECS:

  • 1.97kg weight
  • Dimensions: 28.8cm width x 13.2cm diameter x 13.6cm height
  • Water-proof
  • Dust-proof
  • Black or Blue colourway
  • $399.99 RRP

https://www.jbl.com.au/XTREME-3-.html

Janine Allis, founder of retail giant Boost Juice, chats with Claire Armstrong about how the simple idea of selling juices and smoothies grew through sheer grit and determination from her kitchen table to an international empire. But the down to earth mother of four’s path to entrepreneurial success has been far from ordinary.

Trying to lock in a time to interview Janine Allis, it is plainly clear her life remains a whirlwind of commitments, despite her repeated insistence she has discovered the elusive work-life balance. But when your history is logging 17-hour work days anything less could easily be considered blissful.

Fresh from interstate travel for the filming of Channel Ten’s latest reality hit Shark Tank, Janine breezily declares her investor role on the prime time show kept her interstate for ‘only three weeks’ and with a visit from her daughter and husband and the opportunity to connect with her sister, it was almost like a holiday.

Janine is no stranger to travel. An adventurer at heart, she has an unwavering nerve to try and explore anything life throws at her. The self-proclaimed ‘Miss Average’ student never finished high school and never attended university a day in her life, instead setting her sights on exploring the world, complete with cliché blue backpack. She left behind her suburban Knoxfield family home in Victoria in the 1980s after telling her mum she would be home in three months (she came back six years later).

“Life took me on a journey in those years, there was no planning and I left home very naive about the world and people, but my travels taught me so many life skills whether that be problem-solving, conflict management or emotional intelligence,” she says reminiscently.

Janine – who is currently ranked at number 24 on the BRW Rich Women List – is proof there is no conventional path to commercial success (and even if there were she probably would have hiked around it).

From a junior role in an advertising agency, to becoming the house model for sports brand Adidas, an aerobics instructor, door wench at night clubs, a camp counsellor in the USA, a nanny in France, selling time share in the Canary Islands to working on David Bowie’s opulent yacht in the south of France, Janine’s younger years meandering through an eclectic mix of jobs taught her more about the business world than any classroom.

 

“I have always been a great believer in the idea that children should be in your life, not you in their’s, and they will have a richer life because of it. This is how I resolve the guilt that comes from being a working mum.”

“Anything you do in life can give you skills for business,” she reveals. “I believe people need to have a life full of experiences to find out what they’re really passionate about.”

Janine’s first zealous awakening was Motherhood.
At 27, she returned home from abroad with a two-year-old son Samuel in tow, feeling like a failure for mistakes and misjudgements that left her financially and emotionally downtrodden. But rather than sink in self pity, Janine set a steely focus on finding a career to support herself and her young son.

Janine’s fun-loving spirit, headstrong determination and inquisitive nature often lead her to say ‘yes’ to opportunities as they presented, and landed her a role with Village Roadshow in Melbourne, which spring-boarded her to Singapore, only to return to Melbourne as a publicist with United International Pictures (all this despite no experience in management or public relations).

Her quintessential Aussie give-it-a-go approach to life also lead her to meeting and marrying the man of her dreams, Jeff Allis, who at the time was head of programming at Austereo, Australia’s biggest radio network.

Janine candidly explains the fast-paced romance, moving in together six weeks after their first date, engaged after four months, married after eight months and expecting their first baby, Oliver, after 12 months.

Janine – who is currently ranked at number 24 on the BRW Rich Women List – is proof there is no conventional path to commercial success (and even if there were she probably would have hiked around it).

“We are complete opposites,” she laughs. “But we respect each other’s abilities and when it comes to our expertise his weaknesses are my strengths and my weaknesses are his strengths; we complement each other perfectly and are a great example of when you get the right team together anything can happen.”

Just nine months after the birth of Oliver, the couple discovered they were expecting another bouncing bundle, son Riley, pivoting their ambitions on taking control of their destinies. A dabble in publishing and touring comedians failed to get the juices flowing – until the concept of bringing juice bars to Australia was presented.

 

The self-proclaimed ‘Miss Average’ student never finished high school and never attended university.

The revolutionary idea was sparked after the notable success of the juice and smoothie industry in the United States. As a mum of active kids and a bit of a health nut, Janine saw the Aussie market was seriously lacking healthy fast food options despite the warm climate and health conscious outdoorsy lifestyle. Fresh juice bars were something she knew she could get excited about.

“I wanted to give my kids something quick and healthy when we were out and about but there was only fatty, sugary, empty calories as far as the eye could see,” she says.

Janine and Jeff trialled the juice concept with several business partners, throwing open the doors to Sejuice on Chapel Street in Melbourne. But lacking internal support and respect the experience quickly soured and a lesson in the hardships of working in an unsupportive team was realised. In true Janine style this failure only spurred and inspired her to create her own brand, own style and vivacity.

And so Boost Juice was born, inflaming Janine’s primal steadfast passion.

This year marks sixteen years since the first store opened its doors on King William Street in Adelaide, even though Janine and Jeff were living in Melbourne juggling the responsibilities of three young children, Samuel (6), Oliver (2) and Riley (7 months) across two different states.

 

“His weaknesses are my strengths and my weaknesses are his strengths; we complement each other perfectly and are a great example of when you get the right team together anything can happen.”

“It is difficult to run and grow a business when you have kids, you don’t want to be an absentee mum,” she says. “I have always been a great believer in the idea that children should be in your life, not you in theirs, and they will have a richer life because of it,” she writes in her book The Secrets of my Success. “That is how I resolve the guilt that comes from being a working mum.”

Janine describes a life in the early Boost days having very little time for herself, working ridiculous hours and multiple travel, professional and personal commitments, few friends, no hobbies outside of the business, yet her high achieving determination to make it work was evident.

“I was constantly ‘on’, there was no sitting down and watching TV or leisurely going out to dinner; my life in the early days of Boost wasn’t segregated – work, life, parenting was all jumbled in together,” she recalls. “You can make it work, you just have to set yourself up to succeed and well, you might also need to ask your mum to help look after the kids.”

She excitedly divulges the breakneck speed of her growing empire which rocketed from zero to 100 stores in four years, earning her the prestigious Telstra Business Woman of the Year Award in 2004.

“It was like riding a train going really fast. You just don’t realise how fast while you’re on the journey, but it’s exactly how we would have wished it would be.

 

“My kids are my priority. I have never been a canteen mum or on the parent council and at one time I did feel guilty about it. But there are other mums who probably want to do it and will do it better than me and it isn’t what I want to spend my time doing.”

“And when we needed to grow the business we sold the only asset we had, the family home, and moved our three kids into a rental. We were completely committed to the success of Boost Juice. We couldn’t let it fail. It was exciting, addictive, exhilarating and terrifying at the same time.”

Today, Boost Juice stands as a monolithic retail phenomenon with some 350 stores throughout Australia and in 12 countries around the world, growing at a rate of 30 stores a year. It has also been joined by Salsa’s Fresh Mex Grill, Cibo Espresso and a trial of Hatch, a fresh approach to takeaway chicken, under the umbrella of parent company Retail Zoo, of which Janine wears the hat of executive director.

Janine jokes she has always been too busy building the business in its upward trajectory to spend much time scoping the competition.

“When you copy something, you can’t innovate. But when you create a brand, you can have fun with it.”

She has the same ideology when it comes to parenthood and her family. She has always made the decisions that were right for her, even if it raised some eyebrows.

“I had an epiphany when I was in South Korea on business to have another child,” she muses. “Whether it was due to this need to nurture something because the womanhood side of me had been lost in the daily grind of the man’s world of business or because I was 39 and the biological clock was ticking loudly, but I knew I wanted another baby.”

It took three years for this epiphany to come full circle. Janine was 42 when she became a mother for the fourth time to her first daughter, Tahlia. Her eldest son was 16. The journey not only required a vasectomy reversal and four rounds of IVF, but was swept up in Janine’s dizzying life holding the reins of the Boost Juice steam train, taking the first steps to diversify the brand and also a director of the Hawthorn Football Club.

“The birth of Tahlia gave Jeff and me time to reflect on what was important in our lives,” she says. “In 2007 Jeff took over as CEO of Boost Juice and I stepped down from the daily dues of powering the business along.”

 

“When we needed to grow the business we sold the only asset we had, the family home, and moved our three kids into a rental. We were completely committed to the success Boost Juice. We couldn’t let it fail. It was exciting, addictive, exhilarating and terrifying at the same time

And in 2010, the couple made a deal with private equity group The Riverside Company.

“Selling part of my fifth child was an excruciating experience for me,” she says. “However, I knew it was the right move to make on a very personal level and we maintained over 25 per cent of the business.

“My kids are my priority. I have never been a canteen mum or on the parent council and at one time I did feel guilty about it,” she muses. “But there are other mums who probably want to do it and will do it better than me and it isn’t what I want to spend my time doing.

“I think people need to see their life in totality and do what is best for them. If you would rather spend your time meditating than helping out at the school canteen don’t put the pressure on yourself to please other people, it won’t make you a better mum, a better wife or better person. You need to do what makes you happy in life.

“If you are unhappy with your life, stop, and make a change. You always have the power to change. Do what you love.

“My family and being fit and healthy are key to my happiness.”

She’s at a point now, she says, where she can finally appreciate her own success, balance work and family, take time out for yoga and surfing and share her wisdom with others by putting her mind and energy into projects like Shark Tank, writing books and blogs including mentoring as a Linkedin influencer and in her spare time, take her daughter to her Year 2 classroom.

The love-life philosophy that Janine created for the Boost Juice brand is one she clearly lives by too.