Age Rebel

Low and Loose Ponytails make a come back.

2012-01-26T08:18:00.009-05:00

I have long hair, a couple inches from the shoulders. When I have time to wash and blow dry my hair it looks great. But so often I run out the door and then my hair looks in need of a good short haircut.

" Let's face it, long hair is great when you are a teenager or have the time to style."

In my case neither applies. And I am not a fan of short hair as it lacks the versatility I like. So I have been experimenting. Over New Years I used a curing iron to make long loose waves. It was nice distraction from flat ironed hair (which I think looks awful on most people despite the trend). Even though the waves were fun it was time consuming. So this weekend after perusing the fashion magazines I stumbled upon an article in Allure which featured easy ponytail options. Yesterday was my ponytail debut! Got lots of compliments and it just may be my signature everyday DO!

Why I don't promote Facial Masks

2012-01-24T17:57:00.005-05:00

I've been known to say I am not a fan of facial masks. It's not that I don't see their benefits, it's just I see more benefit in what one does daily with their skin rather than weekly. It's true when I say "it really matters what you put on your skin each day". Don't skimp on your cleanser as I can bet you it's not removed well enough which means some of it stays on your skin. So it best be good. A little tid bit, use a cotton pad dampened with water to remove your make-up and clean your skin. If the cotton is not pure white, then your skin is not cleansed yet.

But I can be reformed. The last two weeks have been stressful and I have made it a point to take a spa bath at home and put on a face mask. It does feel nice to have a mask on that smells great. As an esthetician I get it that after it dries it's over. But for that 10 minutes of tightening I feel revived. Aaahhh!

Home Recipe. Mix a tablespoon of plain yogurt, a 1/2 teaspoon of honey and add a squeeze of cucumber (you want the juice of the cucumber). This is nourishing and good for dehydrated and sensitive skin.

Everyday Cosmetic Tips

2012-01-16T11:33:00.005-05:00

I'm an esthetician so naturally I want my skin to look good. But it's not always the case. Like most women juggling motherhood and a career I wake up tired sometimes, and my face shows it. Today was one of them. Last night my new Collie pup stayed up all night and so did I. I woke up puffy, the circles exaggerated under my eyes, and I felt sluggish all over. I practiced my home remedies this morning and they really work. I took a bath, exfoliated and applied a five minute masque, vigorously toweled dried and then dry brushed my body. This was followed by a stimulating contour gel application (have to plug mine as it does the trick-Cellaction Contour Gel) and made sure to include my tired feet. After getting dressed I was re-energized but my face was still tired looking. In addition to my normal moisturizing routine, I used a few tricks of the trade. You can easily do the same and believe me it works.

People will tell you that your skin looks great even when you know the truth underneath the carefully applied cosmetics.

Give these a go;

1) Use a loose mineral powder. Sprinkle a little powder (just enough to cover the center of your palm) and add to it a spritz of water (even better use your toner) and a tiny dollop of your moisturizer. Mix with your finger and apply evenly to your face. You can use a sponge to smooth it but I prefer my fingertips.

2) Apply a pink soft blush to the apple of your cheeks. It brightens your face just like when your were young!

3) Take a white eye pencil. Use it on the inner bottom lid. This opens up your eyes.

4) Use a violet/blue pencil on the inner and outer corners of your eye right at lash line. The bluer tones brighten the eyes and make the white of your eyes appear brighter.

5) Use navy mascara. I love navy mascara when I am tired It works to make your eyes sparkle. Concentrate on outer lashes so your lashes look fuller.

6) Stain your lips with a reddish lip stain and cover with a clear gloss.

That's it. No need for more. This daytime make-up is natural and designed to enhance your complexion. Our secret weapon for those challenging mornings.

2012-01-06T10:14:00.000-05:00

7 Tips to Jump Start Annual Wellness/Beauty Plan

2012-01-04T11:15:00.006-05:00

It's this easy to get in Wellness/Beauty Shape

1. Clean skin only at night. Use cotton to clean your skin as you will know when your skin is clean-no fooling white cotton pads. Why only at night? Because your skin collected debris from the days activities and outside elemental pollutants. If you wear make-up, it's got to come off. When you wake up all you have is protective oils on your skin. If you want less, swipe skin with an herbal toner.

2. Splash your face each morning with cold water. I didn't originate this concept, nor did Ernest Laslow, but he certaintly launched the idea. It makes sense, the cold water helps reduce puffiness, adds color to the skin and helps the skin circulate and glow. And if your tired, you wake up quicker.

3. Slather on the moisturizer and eye cream before turning on your hair dryer. Seems logical but most people don't realize how damaging that dryer heat is to your skin.

4. Brush your skin as often as you brush your hair. That's right, your skin needs a brushing too. Same reason as your brush your hair, to make it glow. Dry brushing your skin will remove dead skin cells, improve upon overall circulation and help your skin look younger. Start at the base of your foot and brush upwards (always towards the east area). Three brush strokes per body part does the trick.

5. Oil your skin and hair. Wherever you don't wear clothes, add oil. Water and oil don't mix and that's good. Your skin is made up of oil which evaporates quickly. Most moisturizers are water base and protect your skin for only a few hours. Seal the moisture in with a light skin friendly oil like jojoba or wheat germ oil. I use ISS-Bare-It Oil for my face body and hair.

6. Towel Dry before exercise. Warm up with a good towel dry massage. Shower and use your towel to dry off your skin, exfoliate your skin and massage your skin. Grab the towel ends with each hand and vigorously massage your skin from head to toe. It's a great warm up to exercise.

7. Manage your hand care-whatever you use on your face, lays on your fingertips so work the extra product into your hands. Putting on hair glaze? Don't wipe the excess on a towel, put it on your hands too. Your hands need more protection than the rest of your body due to constant use ands washing. Having a special hand cream is nice but more important is to remember to treat your hands as special as your skin and hair and those products work well too.

Sting Ray-Slimy or Silky?

2010-08-09T14:42:00.003-04:00

One of my favorite animals is a Meerkat. Many years ago I saw a documentary about these little creatures and fell in love with them. They are so small that they naturally stay in groups as they understand the power in numbers. Like puppies, they love to play and are very affectionate with one another. I couldn't get over the way they groom each other so meticulously! And how they love to lay in the sun, lounge around and take turn baby sitting for the youngsters. There is one assigned watch dog who will stay on call to let the pack know of any inpending danger. And when danger comes their way, these little Meerkats will create their own army and take on other animals much bigger. Many times they are successful warding predators away. I was in Meerkat heaven when I heard they were exhibiting at the Maritime Aquarium. I told my daughter we would go and she wanted to bring a friend. So yesterday I went with the two eight year old girls to see my lovely Meerkats. Although I was anxious get to the exhibit, I had to excercise patience and follow the girls lead. First we stopped to pet Sting Rays. Believe me I would have skipped this in a heartbeat. Not only did we stop once, but three times. They could not get enough of a touch out of these slimy fish. I reluctantly put my hand in the water and touched the skin of the Sting Ray which was surprisingly silky. Then we looked at ALL the fish, ALL the coral reef, the Seals, the Penguins and finally the Meerkats. The girls named whcih of the animals they liked the most and why. They played with the fake sushi and fish platters, went on a play fishing boat and pulled me on the Happy Feet IMAX ride. What I realized after the events were over, was that had it been up to me I would have walked into the aquarium, made it the Meerkat exhibition and proably left soon after. But I had so much fun living through the eyes of my daughter and her friend, allowing me to see so much more, (feel more). It made me realize that adults probably walk through life missing so much of the magic and beauty in every day living. Oddly enough I got an email quote from a friend yesterday about our society stating that although we Live Longer we Live Less Fully. While it may be true, we do get reminders that life is so wonderful especially when we have the opportunity to watch how our children enjoy it! And the irony is that while we are teaching them they are really teaching us.
Marlene Katz is the founder of ISS, intelligent skin sense, a green boutique and spa in Fairfield CT. She is currently writing a lifestyle book called "Age Rebel" which features her beauty and wellness tips, inspirational anecdotes and spa cuisine recipes. Marlene can be reached at mk@intelligentsinsense.com

Wake up your senses with a sniff of Sassafras and an Amuse-Bouche

2010-06-28T19:08:00.005-04:00

How often have you dreamt of a spa get away? Well that was my dream for awhile but with a business of my own, and family obligations it just wasn't happening. But I knew I was reaching the place of exhaustion when I couldn't create anything new or interesting. New as in a great recipe or an arts and crafts project with my daughter. I had reached a loll. So one day with out much thought, I just did it. Made a call to work that I would be a no-show for a few days. Checked in with my parents to see if they could watch my daughter. And off I went. Yes, a cringe of guilt crept up on me when I left my husband with the dogs (even though I made him home cooked meals for three days..). That guilt lasted all of five minutes when off to PA I drove. When my daughter was safe with her grandparents I headed to a wonderful lodge near the Pocono's. For two days I was in "Alone Heaven". I took an art class, a cooking class, hiked some and got a massage. This short trip rejuvenated me. On my hike I smelled natures best aromas, some sassafras and spearmint. I learned that dinner can begin with Amuse-Bouche-just the word itself is appealing-"entertainment for the mouth". So sometimes it is just a change of scenery that is needed to revive the senses. Now that I am back to cooking I will have lots of recipes to share. Tonight is Mexican cuisine with fresh veggie fajitas. And my Canopi (Spanish for the small tasting) will be gazpacho served in an espresso cup.

For more spa tips and recipes visit http://www.intelligentskinsense.com/

ISS Pick: Cellaction Contour Gel

2010-06-28T09:53:00.003-04:00

It’s summer and once again you wish you had some magic trick to get rid of unsightly dimples better known as cellulite. Well, you are not alone. Statistics say nine out of ten women have cellulite. Between the skin and muscle, fat is held together by collagen fibers. With age, gravity pulls down and creates a pressure that causes fibers to swell with fat and fluid. This action manifests as cellulite which affects mostly women.

Cellaction Contour Gel’s key ingredients blend invigorating botanicals to enhance circulation such as Guarana, Rosemary, and Butchers Broom Extract. Guarana, a small shrub in Brazil, slowly releases a form of caffeine that aids the body to produce its own heat to help metabolic function. A patented ingredient Pronalen™ Anticellulite HSC* complex of plant origin treats cellulite with iodinated plant glycoproteins. In a vivo ultrasound study participants using a cream containing Pronalen™ at 10%, showed reduction in appearance of cellulite in three weeks.

Some Enticing Spa Tips To Reduce Cellulite

2010-06-28T09:47:00.003-04:00

It’s New's Year resolution time and once again you wish you had some magic trick to get rid of unsightly dimples better known as cellulite. Well, you are not alone. Statistics say nine out of ten women have cellulite. Between the skin and muscle, fat is held together by collagen fibers. With age, gravity pulls down and creates a pressure that causes fibers to swell with fat and fluid. This action manifests as cellulite which affects mostly women. Marlene Katz, the founder of Intelligent Skin Sense (“ISS”) has done extensive research on this and developed some great products to help reduce cellulite and easy homemade recipes & tips. Products include Diva Soak (SRP: $25), Micro-Manage Kit (SRP: $50), Cellaction Contour Gel (SRP $46), Cellaction Cleansing Tea (SRP: $13).

Leave the dimples on your cheeks and not behind!

2010-04-12T21:58:00.000-04:00

Every spring I vow to lose the winter pounds and to tone up. So here I am again, this year early spring and a few pounds more than last! (It’s called “carry over”!) The good news is I know exactly how to do this. The bad news is I have a new issue which is cellulite.

For some reason, American doctors just refuse to acknowledge that there is such a thing called cellulite. Maybe because it is a French coined term. And maybe it is that we are just always a tad behind the Europeans with skin specific science. I will tell you that there is such a thing as cellulite and it is not simply fat.

Well now I am finally a canidate for the treatment that I have been doing at my spa for so many years. Funny thing is that this treatment started out in NYC after I met a great pioneer named Calliope. She learned an herbal body wrap from, who else, a french herbologist and began offering it to clients out of a yoga studio. I would have listened to anything Calliope said, she was Greek and had the strong sterio-typical body. So strong she rode around NYC on bike with swords on her back-yep, she was also a sword fighter. Well enough on Cal, but this opened a whole new world to me. I was like a sponge and so fascinated with how these herbs really worked that I became certified as an herbologist. Over the years I concocted a slew of herbal recipes and saw the benefits first hand . The herbs we used for the wrap were astringent and cooling and helped to jump start the circulation. And that was the key to how they worked. Many people who have a sluggish circulatory system are more prone to having cellulite.

Well long story short, we had clients from all walks of life, the working women, the new Mom’s and many celebrities (and royality I may add…) come in for this wrap. I remember saying that if we could iron out the skin after a body wrap we could really flatten the skins surface and reduce the appearance of cellulite. Little did I know that I was on to something that another now extraordinarily wealthy person invented called “Endermology”. (I also invented the flat iron in the late 70’s when I borrowed my Mom’s iron and literally ironed my hair flat. True story, but you know timing is everything and someone beat me to it.)But this concept of ironing out the cellulite came after I realized that cellulite is actually an accumulation of liquids that has not adequately been carried out of the body through the lymphatic system. This waste rests in between the fat pocket and connective tissue. And since women have so many more fat cells than men, they also have more cellulite. So my idea to heat the area with stimulating herbs and then flatten it with some kind of roller was more revolutionary than I realized.. We did this manually for years until the invention of Endermology which is really a sophisticated version of this. Thank goodness I ordered this large, costly and impressive piece of equipment because this spring, I am going to be my own best customer!

Marlene Katz is the founder (and Age Rebel) of Intelligent Skin Sense (ISS). ISS is a green spa and boutique which features the Intelligent Skin Sense products and signature spa services. Her lastest project is lifestyle book called “Age Rebel” which offers many spa and wellness tips and her healthy spa recipes. www.intelligentskinsense.com

2010-04-08T20:42:00.000-04:00

Met Barbara Orbison at my spa and gave her beautiful skin my signature facial. Exchanged products and tried her new perfume "Pretty Woman". Hmmm, sexy and earthy.

Say Chao to Under-Eye Circles

2010-03-29T22:30:00.000-04:00

Surgery won’t fix them, Botox won’t hide them, and so, what do you do with those tired eyes? I’m the recipient of the under-eye circle of drama! My lucky parents do not have under-eye circles so I did not inherit them. I personally think that we all have areas where we put our stress. For some it is a recurring ulcer, for others skin conditions. I know that when I am stressed, my eyes are the first to show it. I mean, let’s face it; there are more “ism’s” about the eyes than I care to remember. But I will say that if eyes are the windows to your soul, then lets leave the shutters off them!

This is not really as bad as it sounds. I am fortunate to be an esthetician and make-up artist so my job is to conceal what nature tries to reveal. There have been many weddings for which I was hired to make-up the beautiful bride who hadn't slept the night before. And I would never let a bride be less than gorgeous. Yet one of the hardest things to correct (or disguise) is tired and stressed eyes. There is the issue of redness in the eyes, under eye circles and puffiness (which also exacerbate the crow’s feet). The good news is I have made the sleepiest of eyes look good. These tricks of the trade are easy enough for anyone to do. But before this…let’s explore a little more about the culprits that cause raccoon eyes!

The fact is that the eyes really do show so much about ones health and state of mind. There is a study of the eyes called iridology which I find fascinating. I once had my eyes read and wouldn’t you know it -my hazel eyes are really a dark blue. I always wanted to have blue eyes and I was told that if I cleansed my body, and improved my health, the color of my eyes would change. Interestingly enough, when I do get a good night sleep often enough, and when I eat properly, my eyes are much clearer and maybe there is a tinge of blue! Well a bit of wishful thinking. What I do know is that there are many Naturopathic doctors who read the eyes, and the skin as a tool to help them diagnose the health of the body. When the body is in good health, the skin responds well, and aging is slowed down.

If I were to sum up aging as simply as possible it would be the breakdown of collagen. Collagen needs a water abundant area to grow and many of us lack sufficient water in the cells. This in turn inhibits the growth of collagen and increases skin inflammation. Both of these are leading causes of premature aging during the pre and post menopausal years. The first major change is usually around age thirty. So many times I hear my clients say how great their skin was until they hit 30. Voila-a shift in the hormones certainly shows up on the skin. The first signs may be weight gain, or overall puffiness. Many women combat weight gain caused from a change in hormones by eating a low fat and low caloric diet that is often lacking in nutrients. A poor diet can tax the lymphatic system. When the lymphatic system is overloaded the drainage process becomes damaged and too much fluid can cause swelling in the connective tissue. This can contribute to skin bloating, under eye circles, and uneven or ashen skin tone.

So what do you do when had a sleepless night and your Cortisol levels have sky rocketed? Or when you didn’t skip that extra glass of wine? I’ve got a few skin care tips that will de-puff, awaken your skin and start the day with a glow. Take a wash cloth soaked in warm water and gently circle it around the skin. This exfoliates dead skin. Next run your sink water until it is ice cold. Splash your face ten times with this cold water. Pat your skin dry. Put on your moisturizer and eye cream. Take a teaspoon and put it in the freezer for a minute or two. While this is cooling, drink a glass of room temperature water with a slice of lemon and cucumber. Take out the teaspoon and press the it on the under-eye area from the outer corner to the inner corners. In less than thirty minutes your skin and eyes will look great.

And lastly I will offer this. There is a Buddhist adage that says when the soul feels hardened soften it. Soften your heart, soften your mind. When the eyes, the windows of the soul, are open they reveal your soft and open and beautiful spirit. This is my best beauty trick of all

Age Rebelling Citrus Zing Juice:
1 grapefruit
1 orange
1 tsp of freshly grated ginger
Grate the ginger (use a cheese grater) hand squeeze or use a juice to fresh squeeze the orange and grapefruit. Add ginger and juice to a cup. Stir and enjoy.

Marlene Katz is the founder of Intelligent Skin Sense Boutique, Spa and Product Line. She is the author of the upcoming book “Age Rebel” which features her many beauty tips and spa recipes. When Marlene is not concocting skin care she is home cooking for her family (and dogs.) www.intelligentskinsense.com

2010-03-29T17:27:00.000-04:00

spa tips, wellness recipes, spring beauty-read more

http://ping.fm/ErhL1

Zen and Chaos meet again

2010-03-15T22:21:00.007-04:00

Give me at least bragging rights for my efforts...it is not for lack of trying or even for lack of knowledge that I stumble upon chaos when I try to be Zen. Do you know how many times I've read Marianne Williamson's Gift of Love, or reread paragraphs from Gangaji in You are That? I've got the beginners guide to Buddhism and Hatha Yoga at my fingertips. I will tell you that despite my sincere wishes to have peace, I have chaos all around me. The dogs bark at 6 am. My seven year old daughter creeps in the bedroom at wee hours. My husband patiently awaits his morning coffee which if you haven't guessed, I am preparing. I vowed to give myself private time, so I set my alarm for 5:30 am. I tip-toe out of bed, and feel the peace entering my body, until BOOM, my husband appears, the dogs and my daughter all wondering if everything is OK? Well I can joke about this now, but at the time I wanted to cry. But Gangaji made a point in saying that the calm can be found in a NYC packed elevator. So I realized this recently that Chaos is to Zen, as labor is to birth. I finally am embracing that both can coexist and I don't need to have one or the other. Just need to explain to the dogs that licking my face is not a part of my meditation!

Is Water Enough for Hydration?

2010-02-24T13:24:00.004-05:00

I see it all the time. My clients come to the spa faithfully with their water bottle in hand. So why are so many of these same clients complaining that their skin is lacking hydration?

The way I see it is if water were enough to stay hydrated, you could simply drink it, spray it on and bathe in it.
But as you know just by feeling your skin after a bath or a spritz, it is not adding moisture. Water does not permeate the skin and for this reason, most hydrating sprays have the other "bells and whistles" which are water binding ingredients. I have added to ISS Saturation Mist Macadamia Glycerides, Aloe Vera Juice and Sodium Hyaluronate which add moisture to the skin as well as retain moisture in the skin.

This idea of retaining water in the skin is what is so important. If you drink your eight glasses and flush them too, you are not necessarily keeping the water in the cells. A medical doctor explained to me that cells which are not healthy will not retain the fluids. This makes sense when I hear about so many women in particular who run more to the bathroom then when they exercise!

It's important to understand that in order for the cells to be healthy they need all the nutrients provided by many sources. Oils that are beneficial to women 30 on up are evening primrose oil, borage oil, cod liver oil and coconut oil. These lubricate the organs, and the skin as the largest will look better too. Water that comes from fruits and vegetables is the best as you not only get the hydration but the antioxidant vitamins as well.

So my advice is eat your water, and leave the bottle behind!

Update to "Eating My Way Skinny"

2010-02-16T13:19:00.006-05:00

It's been two weeks since I have been "eating my way skinny" and although I don't have earth shattering results, I do have a weight loss of two and a half pounds. This is significant is because I have not dieted a day! As I said, I wouldn't count calories, fats or do anything more than be conscious of the foods I eat by balancing the plate with a little from each food group. So far it has worked.

I recieved great feedback. One women called me as she said she had so much to say that she couldn't use the blog format. Her comments were about exercise. She is a fan of running and has kept her weight down this way. For the most part she can eat what she wants but honestly, from what I heard, she eats pretty healthy. As a working mom, and over 40, she saw changes in her body (like cellulite). She started jogging and saw great results and now has buddied up with a friend. She actually has two treadmills in her home so she can do this buddy system well.

When I stopped jogging regularly I did put on weight. I love running as it is quick, efficient, and works well for me. But in the winter it's tough. The snow, the cold, the slush, need I say more? Also, I have so many friends with knee injuries from over doing the running. So I think it is still a good idea to mix exercise with healthy eating so you're not dependent on excercise alone. For now I am on an Elliptical Trainer and doing Pilate's. And on the nights where I have really slept well, I have ventured out for a run. When I exercise daily I really feel my best so even if it is 20 minutes I try to make it happen. If I have an hour even better.

I know that Valentines Day came and went, but why wait till next year. Here are my recipes and spa tips.
v-day recipes are here http://intelligentskinsense.com/recipes1.html Enjoy!

Eating My Way Skinny!

2010-02-08T19:05:00.005-05:00

For many months by my bedside sat four books all focused on health and well-being. Actually, my night table was overwhelmed with so many books, I finally had to read a few. The lack of time I had for reading was a part of the bigger problem, I had put on weight. No time to read, no time to exercise, not enough sleep and so on. I know enough to know this, if you don't sleep well, your cortisol levels rise, you crave carbohydrates, you gain weight. Not to mention waking up and drinking coffee to kick start the day. This interferes with Lecithin that helps to break down body fat. So it made sense to me, to at least read the books. By downsizing my night table I had high hopes it would trickle down to a "smaller" me.

While I have never been fanatical about being thin or having a flat stomach, I have always been health conscious. I know when I start having sugar cravings that my body is out of balance. And as a beauty consultant, I see first hand how poor digestion shows up on the skin. For me this was in the area of under-eye circles and over all puffiness. So after the New year, among my many other resolutions, I have now added, "Eating My Way Skinny"

I should really say, that first I have thought my way skinny. Each of the books I read below, have helped me to get into the mindset to think about food in a more positive way. I'm inspired now to do what I need to do, and after ten days I can report that I have dropped two of the twelve I set out to lose. My motivation is this simple,
1. To fit back into my favorite clothes. 2. to have more energy. 3. To reduce water retention.

While my goal is to downsize my waist, I have decided to do it by eating and gained some great advise from the books I read. I believe that balance is the key, so I took away from one book to eat more raw foods, from another to eat healthy fats, and interestingly enough, all four authors advocated eating breakfast.

My skinny on the books I read...
Eating for Beauty: The premise is that eating a raw food diet will enhance your health. I love the concept but it is not my calling. I am always cold and can't imaging not having my warm soup. But I have already added many of the delicious raw food recipes and try to eat raw foods throughout the day.
Eat Fat Lose Weight: There is a lot of good information in this book. Basically the book successfully challenges the low fat/high carb way of losing weight. Most of the fats she mentions as being "healthy fats' such as nuts, and avocados I have incorporated into my diet. But I have read controversial research about animal fats and still debating this. The advice is to eat about 30% of protein a day.
Anti-Aging Revolution: This book offers great facts about vitamins, has some decent recipes and would be good for someone to read who wants to become a vegetarian. It is written by a doctor who is steadfast in providing details to support his ideas. Although I have contemplated a vegan diet, I'm not there yet.
The Swiss Secret: I've read this book three times in hopes it becomes ingrained in my brain. This author (also a physician)takes a holistic approach to wellness and believes in the mind and body connection. Since not all of us can make it to his wellness clinic, he offers great recipes for cleansing the body especially if the liver is overtaxed. Not only is the book informative, it provides a balance diet by advocating that one eat from all the food groups.
MY PERSONAL TIPS:

I weigh in once a week at the same time. Since I retain fluids, the best time for me is late morning. (On this day, I prepare a fresh vegetable juice in the morning as my breakfast so my I know that it can't be the breakfast moving the scale.)
I don't count calories, fat or protein grams. If you just look at your plate you can divide it in three-one entire half is dedicated to vegetables and the second half in two equal portions; one for protein and one for grains. You'll get fats from fish, chicken and meat. Additionally I cook with olive oil, canola or avocado oil. I have added a tsp of butter to certain recipes.
I snack. It may be a small container of Greek yogurt or some nuts. Other days chopped carrots with hummus.
My sweet tooth is controlled by organic unsweetened hot chocolate with a tsp of agave or honey, or organic cottage cheese with cinnamon, or a baked apple drizzled with maple syrup.
I cleaned out my closet, got rid of what doesn't suit me any longer and went to Good Will and Dress for Success. I have a newly organized closet with a section of clothes that fit now and a section with all my great clothes that I can't wear yet. Everything is hung on my new "skinny hangers" ( I bought these great hangers at BBB-$25.00 for 50)
I give myself two off days where I can have a cocktail (or two-but really no more..) and maybe a desert. But even then, I balance what I eat. If breakfast was an egg and bagel, lunch is a big salad.

And the last tip, is I am not on a time table. This is the new me, with a new perspective about eating in a positive way. I am archiving my recipes, many can be found on my website www.intelligentskinsense.com

Fall 2009 Newsletter

2009-10-28T09:10:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone. I am back from my blogging hiatus (as I needed to recharge my batteries to get my age rebel book in gear). Here is the link to my latest newsletter. Love to hear from you and please forward any skin care or wellness concerns my way. I'll get back with answers and tips.

New Years Resolution

2008-12-22T23:50:00.005-05:00

What a year that has passed! It makes me really think about my goals 2009. I think about my five year plan and how it must be revisited. I'm also thinking about a quote that read

"The one constant in life is change"

and realizing how true it is. I've always believed that the real beauty is inside us and for that reason have persevered in the service of holistic beauty. More than ever we need to better ourselves in order to better the world. And this is my New Years resolution. Stay with me...and stay tuned. Peace, Namaste, Marlene

Why Organic Skin Care?

2008-12-12T11:02:00.003-05:00

There are many people who buy into the belief that organic skin care is the best. I prefer the term holistic. To me holistic is taking the whole into consideration rather that simply parts of the whole. When I shop for food, I buy for the week and make sure I use the food so there is little or no waste. I make decisions to be conscious of the environment. So I bring my own bags, I don't buy plastic goods and I recycle. When I buy organic foods, I am assured of many things; that my foods do not contain growth hormones, and that the farmers follow rules and ethics dictated by USDA organic standards. Why do I bring this up when we are talking about skin care? First off, in reference to skin care organic is very gray term It is still to be defined and until then anyone can say what they want without too much scrutiny. Last point I wish to comment on is that there is much more to formulating a good and healthy skin care product than just to use organic indgredients.

There is a large push for "green chemistry" which addresses environmental concerns. The myth that synthetics are "bad" for the environment needs to be explored as often it is not the case. Rather I point out that science is a good thing. People with acne, rosacea, and sun damaged skin have benefited from scientifically engineered products. Preservatives that are added to a natural based formula will ensure that harmful bacterias, molds, microbes will not grow. To be able to mix together in a beaker the best of science and nature is a truly holistic formula.

Turkey Hangover

2008-12-01T22:48:00.003-05:00

With some guilt I will admit that I am happy Happy Thanksgiving came and went. Let's face it family and food do not always mix well.So if you are hungover from family dynamics, then hours of feasting and now the glutenous feeling left over, you are not alone. My advice is to lighten up on food this week, especially protein and carbs. I am suggesting lots of fresh vegetables, beginning your day with a fruit and veggie juice, a colorful salad at lunch and light protein with green leafy vegetables in the evening. Munch on nuts, vegetables and hummus or some fruit salad. In a few days the heavy feeling will subside.

My favorite juice blend-(I like Acme juicer)PS: Whole Foods makes this too.
1 apple
1 sliver of a beet
1 sliver of ginger
2 carrots
2 celery stalks
1/4 cucumber

Add in a home-spa tip-dry brush before showering. This helps stimulate your circulation, and works to combat cellulite.

Leftovers made gourmet

2008-11-24T22:52:00.003-05:00

Let's see, what is in my fridge, my freezer, my pantry??? This is how I begin each meal. I despise waste, can't throw away food so I have to eat what is there. But that is not the same as left overs. Here is an example. In the fridge are some grains from last night, some veggies. In the freezer there is frozen Mahi Mahi. In the pantry I've got some beluga black lentils. See some almonds...So the meal evolves from this.

Menu: Almond crusted Mahi-Mahi, Israeli cous cous with black lentils and a chopped salad with feta cheese, olive and balsamic drizzle.

The age rebel factor: Skin friendly oils from the fish, almonds and olive oil. (FYI: I love almond oil and it is found in many of the Intelligent Skin Sense moisturizers)

Visit Age Rebel

2008-11-14T13:49:00.000-05:00

Age Rebel Blog

Intelligent Skin Sense Website

2008-11-14T13:16:00.005-05:00

My daughter and I enjoyed our very own slumber party. Waited till dad went out, scurried into the bed and had a picnic. She is six and I guess I am too because I had as much fun as she did. Her job was to guard the bed from our two dogs. They shouldn't have been hungry as I cook holistic foods for them too! Last night they had chicken (yup, cage free) with their doggie grains. But I guess they wanted Chinese-our stir fry created a few hopeful whimpers...anyway wanted to share my quick concoction with you. But I warn you, I am a "little bit of this and a little bit of that" kind of a cook. I never measure so I'll do my best...

Veggie Stir Fry-four to six servings-depends on your appetite, and palate!

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 15 Minutes

Vegetables: 1/2 cup ea: mushrooms, carrot, celery, and add to this any of the following

1/4 cup ea: broccoli, bean sprouts, cabbage, bok-choy

Protein: a handful of Almonds and optional is 1 cup of shrimp, chicken or beef

Flavor makers Scallion, Garlic, Ginger, Orange or Lemon, Soy or Tamarind sauce, Tabasco or Chile peppers (for hot spice) honey or agave (to sweeten sauce).

Chop one garlic clove (or use garlic powder if need be), grate a small piece of ginger (or use ginger powder) a few scallions, half a lemon or orange (or both) and set aside in a bowl.

In a frying pan or Wok, heat 1/4 cup of olive or sesame oil (or both) for a minute and then add the vegetables. Keep stirring with a wooden spatula for five minutes and then add the flavor makers to the pan. Stir again, and add soy sauce to taste. If you have a problem with soy, then use sea salt. Add in sweetening agent to taste. Add in hot spice to taste. Continue cooking (and stirring) until the vegetables are at a texture you like. I like Al-dente so ten minutes is perfect for me. Set veggies aside in a large bowl. Add the protein in the same pan and brown to your liking. Add some more soy or salt. When cooked, add the protein to the vegetables, mix in well and serve alone or over rice or noodles.

Salad Dressing: Take two carrots, one (quarter size) small piece of ginger, 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar, a couple of tbsp. of soy sauce and put into a Cuisinart or blender. Puree. Great over greens or cucumbers.

Age Rebelling Factors: good for skin and for health!

Cucumbers and Celery: Natures diuretics, great for kidney strength

Carrots: beta Carotene's: High in anti-oxidants, helps with adult acne, (and adult eyes...)

Garlic and Onions: Natural anti-inflammatory properties

Ginger: Aids digestion

Green Vegetables: Chlorophyll, Folic-Acid- wonderful nutrients for the cells

About Age Rebel...and more

2008-11-06T13:02:00.005-05:00

OK, call me an age rebel, but if age were relative, then I'd still be a teenager. I know I'm approaching the big 5-0, but so what? The number is significant in tallied years, but that's it. There is no definition anymore of what it means to be 20, 30, 40, 50 on up. My Mom is a living example at early 70's. Once a Bridge Master, she is now a Tai Chi master, an interfaith minister and world traveler. There is no slowing her down. And she looks great. In this blog I will share simple secrets and recipes that I have acquired after 25 years in the skincare/spa industry. This will help you rebel against age-related issues such as sagging skin, cellulite, lack of energy and aging attitudes.You'll also find product how-to's and tips on how to use the ISS Skin Care System, which combines the latest advances in science with the most natural of ingredients. Say "no" to time and "yes" to ageless skin! And remember sometimes it is our thinking that gets old, so keep your thoughts fresh by staying open-minded.
Marlene Katz, Age Rebel, founder of Intelligent Skin Sense .

Q. Does food affect the skin?

2008-06-13T20:32:00.000-04:00

A. Definitely food affects the skin. Think about it-a few cups of hot coffee, can cause the heart to race, the skin to perspire and this flush also creates a skin flush. The skin has a natural built-in thermometer and foods can warm or cool the skin and therefor the skin is greatly affected by what we eat. If someone has roasacea, spicy foods, caffeine and alcohol will aggravate the already sensitive skin. For this reason, in my spa we have a resident nutritionist on call to meet with our clients who want to improve their skin from the inside out. Additionally we conduct seminars to discuss what foods are good to eat for the season. Check out our recipe's under education+ and write in your remarks.