Mental Wellness and Beauty Products: What Do They Have to Do With One Another?

The human mind is a complex and powerful tool. As we learn more about its inner workings, the importance of taking care of both our physical and mental health has become increasingly clear. 

There’s no denying that self-care is an important part of our overall health and well-being. Taking care of ourselves externally through skin care, hair care, makeup, and other activities can have a major impact on our internal state – including our mental health. 

The last thing we need is for our beauty products to cause us stress by threatening our health with negative and unsafe ingredients. Studies actually show that beauty products and routines can affect our stress levels and daily state of mind. 

Mental health and the inner workings of the human mind are complex and multifaceted, but here at Original Sprout, we’re all about adding a positive boost to daily mental wellness through a healthy and safe beauty routine. 

What better way to do this than using safe hair care products and safe skincare formulas? 

To support your mental wellness, look for worry-free products that…

✓ ARE FREE OF HARMFUL CHEMICALS AND INGREDIENTS 

Beauty products are a big part of our daily lives. From hair care to skincare, we rely on these products to look and feel our best. Unfortunately, many products out there today contain ingredients that can actually be harmful to our health – including our mental well-being. 

In a 2021 report, scientists tested 231 popular makeup products from the U.S. and Canada and discovered that more than 100 contained Per-and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These chemicals do not break down and can build up in the body over time, contributing to a range of health problems and high rates of depression symptoms, especially during pregnancy. 

Remember, your skin is an organ – and just like your other organs, you need to be careful about how you treat it. 

 

Ingredients to Avoid in Skin and Hair Care Products 

  1. PEGs (polyethylene glycols)

PEGs are petroleum-based compounds that are widely used in beauty products as thickeners, solvents, softeners, and moisture carriers. Unfortunately, these compounds can jeopardize children’s mental health, potentially causing lethargy, rage, anxiety, aggression, paranoia, and mood swings. 

  1. Aluminum

Aluminum is a metal that is often used in beauty and hair care products. While it’s not always dangerous, it can be harmful to your health if used in excess. Aluminum has been linked to health risks such as skin irritation and allergies; it can also strip away moisture from the hair and scalp, causing dryness and damage.

  1. Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a chemical compound found in many products, such as nail polish, hair dye, and makeup. Unfortunately, it can have some negative effects on our health when used in large amounts. 2022 researcheven indicates formaldehyde can potentially cause feelings of aggression and depression.

  1. Phthalates

Phthalates are chemical compounds that are commonly used in beauty products to make them more pliable and give them a longer shelf life. These chemicals can be absorbed through the skin and have been linked to a variety of health problems, such as endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, cancer, and allergies.

  1. Oxybenzone

Oxybenzone is a chemical compound commonly used in sunscreens and other beauty products. It is known to be an endocrine disruptor, meaning it can interfere with the body’s hormones and cause possible health issues. 

 

For those looking for truly safe hair care products and trustworthy skincare, it’s best to avoid any product that contains the above ingredients and chemicals. Instead, look for natural ingredients such as essential oils or plant-based extracts that provide better benefits without the potential risks associated with these chemicals. The goal is to feel good about what you’re putting on your hair and body. 

 

✓ MAKE YOU FEEL GOOD ABOUT YOURSELF 

Beauty products and cosmetics should make us feel confident – and if they don’t, you need to ditch them! You shouldn’t be left to doubt whether a product is safe or beneficial to use. 

Allergies and acne are two of the most common skin problems faced today. Unfortunately, many products on the market claim to help with these issues, but they can actually end up increasing the risk of allergic reactions and acne breakouts. 

Skin problems can seriously affect our mental health, leading to feelings of insecurity, anxiety, and depression. Our skin is the first thing people see, and having a skin condition can make us feel self-conscious and unattractive. 

Harsh chemicals and obscure ingredients are not what your skin needs to regulate itself. We need to be aware of the potential risks associated with certain products and to choose carefully when it comes to taking care of our skin.

 

How to Find Truly Safe Products 

Wondering how you can find products you can trust – and that will improve rather than hinder your self-esteem? Here are a few tips.

  • Start with trial sizes before committing. 
  • Learn which ingredients trigger reactions in your body.
  • Look for “worry-free” products that don’t contain known allergens and toxins.
  • Read consumer and expert product reviews
  • Look for products with simple ingredients

✓ DON’T COMPROMISE YOUR ETHICS 

With the growing awareness of sustainability and animal welfare, more people are becoming conscious about the products they buy. In recent years, we’ve seen an uptick in the number of Americans concerned about buying sustainable, vegan, and cruelty-free products – even if they don’t live a fully vegan lifestyle.

You don’t want to feel weighed down by products that clash with your personal values. Shopping for ethically sourced and produced products from brands you can trust is a great way to avoid going against your ethics. 

 

When it comes to beauty products, there are three main categories you can shop to feel good about your decisions:

(1) Sustainable

Sustainable beauty products are those that are made from natural ingredients that are not harmful to the environment. They use renewable resources and avoid using synthetic materials, which can be damaging to our planet.

(2) Vegan 

Vegan beauty products are those that contain no animal-derived ingredients or byproducts. This means they don’t contain any animal fats, oils, or even beeswax. However, many animal byproducts can be ethically gathered.

(3) Cruelty-Free 

Cruelty-free beauty products are those that have not been tested on animals – these products ensure no animals were harmed in their production process. 

Read the full story here.

Jim Gash: From Law Professor to Human Rights Champion and Pepperdine’s President

Jim Gash is a well-respected legal professional and academic who has dedicated his career to making a positive impact in the world. With a JD from Pepperdine University and over 20 years of experience as a professor at the Pepperdine Caruso School of Law, he has a deep understanding of the law and its potential to create change.

In addition to his work as a professor, Gash has been actively involved in a number of international human rights initiatives. He has worked with the International Justice Mission to promote justice and freedom for victims of human trafficking and modern-day slavery, and has been involved in efforts to improve the legal system in Uganda.

Gash is also the author of “Divine Collision,” a book that chronicles his experiences working with a group of Ugandan juvenile prisoners who were facing the death penalty. The book details the transformative power of forgiveness and the importance of seeking justice with compassion.

As a keynote speaker at IMPACT 23, Gash is sure to bring his wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Attendees can expect to hear about his work in human rights and his thoughts on the role of law in promoting justice and equality.

Overall, Jim Gash is a highly respected legal professional and academic whose work has made a positive impact on countless lives. As the first Pepperdine alumnus to lead the university as president, he is sure to inspire and motivate attendees at IMPACT 23 with his insights and expertise.



Your Next Career Move: Part-Time Executive

‘Fractional executive’ jobs are creating new options for mid- to late-career professionals; ‘What is the “third third” of your career going to look like?’

Will the future C-suite look more like the gig economy? Part-time executive jobs are on the rise.

After leaving her job as chief marketing officer of San Francisco-area tech company Kloudspot Inc. in 2021, Karyn Scott, 59, took a break with her husband and contemplated a question a mentor had posed: “What is the ‘third third’ of your career going to look like?”

Read the full article here

International firm hires industry veteran to lead third Canadian office

Ware Malcomb, an international architecture and engineering firm has opened its third Canadian office in Ottawa, and John Holland, an experienced architect, has joined the firm as regional director to lead the new office.

In this role, Holland will be responsible for the overall growth and management of the firm’s operations in Ottawa. Holland’s broad architectural experience, spanning more than three decades, includes designing industrial, office, retail, mental health and drug rehabilitation facilities, mixed-use, multi-family, and institutional and educational projects.

A licensed architect in Ontario, Holland is a member of the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA), the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Architects, the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and industry organizations including NAIOP and the Toronto Construction Association (TCA). He has previously served in firms such as Stantec, Powers Brown Architecture, and Boise Holland Architects.

Ware Malcomb first entered the Canadian market in 2007 through an acquisition, and has since grown and diversified its business across Canada, completing over 1,200 projects. The firm currently has active projects in six provinces, and its newest Ontario office, adding to its Vaughan and Toronto offices, will support its growing Canadian clientele and project base.

The firm’s most recent work in Ottawa includes the completion of Building C at National Capital Business Park, an industrial spec warehouse space developed by Avenue 31. Ware Malcomb provided the architectural, interior design, and branding services for the 18,581-m2 (200,000-sf) industrial facility, built on a prominent undeveloped industrial piece of land. Strategically located at exit 109 on Highway 417 at Hunt Club Road, the structure sits on 40 ha (99 acres) of vacant  land, zoned heavy industrial, and leased on a long-term basis from the National Capital Commission (NCC).

Other recent Ware Malcomb projects in Ottawa include interior architecture and design services for a flagship store located at the Rideau Centre, interior design services for various tenants, site planning services on a 263-ha (650-acre) site, and branding services for a 40-ha (100-acre), six-building industrial park.

“We already had a strong presence in Toronto and Vaughan,” says Christina Kolkas, regional director for Ware Malcomb. “This third office solidifies our Canadian presence and allows more accessibility to clients seeking our expertise. It is an exciting time for our firm in this region.”

View Ware Malcomb feature in Construction Canada.

Miramar Health Sponsors IMPACT23: Innovating Mental Health and Addiction Treatment for Veterans

Miramar Health, a veteran-owned and operated addiction and mental health treatment center, is proud to announce its sponsorship of IMPACT23. Founded by Tom Sauer, an 18-year Navy and Marine Corps veteran, Miramar Health is a team of experienced clinicians who provide top-tier mental health and addiction treatment to veterans in a close, family-like environment. Sauer’s personal experience with the loss of his father to addiction and mental illness inspired him to create Miramar Health with a focus on the unique needs of America’s veterans.

Miramar Health’s sponsorship of IMPACT23 demonstrates their dedication to supporting events that foster innovation and collaboration in the field of mental health and addiction treatment. With a team of experienced clinicians from all services, Miramar Health is committed to providing the highest quality care in a close, family-like environment.

By supporting events like IMPACT23, Miramar Health is leading the way in leveraging technology and marketing to improve mental health and addiction treatment for veterans. Miramar Health is committed to helping veterans overcome the challenges they face during the country’s addiction and mental health crisis, and their sponsorship of IMPACT23 is a testament to their unwavering dedication to this mission.

 

New Market Vp Announced for Tangram in Fresno

Commercial interior design firm Tangram announced Alyssa Armesto has been promoted to vice president for Tangram Interiors, Central Valley. 

Armesto first joined the Tangram team in 2013 as a sales executive in Newport Beach for the Southern California-based company. She went on to assume the role of general manager for Fresno in 2019, expanding that role to encompass the entire Central Valley in 2021. As a Fresno native, Armesto has deep ties within the community and surrounding areas, which has contributed to her success in foundational relationship building, according to a Tangram news release.

In her previous roles, she has been described as a skilled practitioner, a tactful communicator and a key relationship builder. Her depth of knowledge and positive relationships have converted into all-time high bookings for the Fresno office just last year. Armesto has set a new record and placed Tangram’s market share on a dramatic incline, according to the release.

A Clovis resident since the age of 10, Armesto earned a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting and business from Azusa Pacific University near Los Angeles. 

“Businesses and residents alike can attest to the continuous evolution and growth in the Central Valley,”stated Armesto. “In my experience, evolution is the gateway to greatness and I am very excited for this coming year.”

Armesto’s new role will place her in charge of sales and operations — managing the entire division in all roles. 

“Alyssa is a stellar performer and leader and ready for this next step in her career with Tangram,” said Joe Lozowski, president & CEO for Tangram Interiors. “As a Fresno native with a deep understanding of the community, her unique ability to foster relationships and build on existing ones at an impressive pace will be her greatest asset as she steps into the Vice President position. I am eager to watch her thrive in the Central Valley.”

Read Original Article here

Unlocking the Mind’s Potential: Ekram Alam and MindPortal’s Vision at IMPACT23

As a keynote speaker at IMPACT23, Ekram Alam will be sharing his vision as the co-founder of MindPortal, a company that is revolutionizing personal computing through the development of a non-invasive personal brain-computer interface. The MindPortal technology aims to unlock the full potential of the human mind by providing direct experiences accessible via a person’s thoughts and intentions.

With a vision to create tools that can directly enhance the human mind, Ekram and his team are working towards creating a new frontier in personal computing that will enable individuals to upgrade their cognition and unleash their full potential.

The MindPortal technology aims to create a new generation of personal computing tools that act as a portal for new experiences directly in a human’s mind. The technology will use non-invasive brain-computer interfaces that can read a person’s thoughts and intentions and translate them into actions on a computer. This will enable individuals to control their devices with their minds, making personal computing more intuitive, efficient, and natural.

Ekram Alam is committed to advancing humankind through his technology. He believes that the MindPortal can unlock the full potential of the human mind, and he is passionate about making this technology available to as many people as possible. In pursuit of this goal, he has been actively involved in several initiatives to promote the development of cutting-edge technologies that can benefit humanity.

One such initiative is attending as one of our Keynote speakers at IMPACT23. The event provides a platform for these leaders to share their insights and ideas on how technology can be used to create a better world. As aKeynote, Ekram Alam is supporting this event and its mission to promote innovation and positive change.



IMPACT23: Networking, Learning & Luxury in Newport Beach – The Ultimate Business Retreat

This year, IMPACT23 is moving from the mountains of Park City, to one of the most beautiful locations in the country – Newport Beach, California.

The event promises to bring together like-minded individuals from various industries who are looking to network, learn, and relax in a stunning coastal setting.

Sponsors of IMPACT will stay in a 3-story cottage or bungalow suite at the all-new Lido House, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean.

The schedule of events are packed with activities that cater to a wide range of interests. Keynote presentations by thought leaders, 1:1 meetings with industry movers, yacht experiences and more are all wrapped into one unforgettable multi-day event.

In addition to the networking and thought-leadership focused opportunities, attendees will also enjoy delicious gourmet dinners, concerts, and an exclusive tour of a corporate headquarters. This event is the perfect blend of business and pleasure, where you can relax and unwind in a stunning location while building valuable business relationships and gaining new insights.

Overall, IMPACT23 promises to be an unforgettable experience that combines the best of business and leisure in a picturesque coastal setting. It’s a great opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, learn from industry experts, and enjoy the natural beauty of Newport Beach.

Garden Grove Strawberry Festival Association Announces, “Celebrating Kindness” As Theme Of Its 63rd Annual Festival

The Garden Grove Strawberry Festival is proud to announce that it will be returning to the city once again, Memorial Day weekend, May 26th-May 29th, 2023. This annual event, which has been a favorite of residents and visitors for over 60 years, celebrates the city’s rich agricultural history and heritage, and it is dedicated to the strawberry.

The festival, which is organized by the Garden Grove Strawberry Festival Association, will feature a wide variety of activities, including a VIP pancake breakfast, live music, contests, vendors, a festive parade, and a Cake Cutting Ceremony. Visitors will also be able to enjoy carnival rides and attractions for all ages and much more.

This year, the festival’s theme will be centered around kindness. The Strawberry Festival Association wanted to focus on the kindness people show one another. The festival’s goal this year is to show that by embracing kindness, connection and togetherness can be fostered in order to build up our local communities.

An annual highlight of the festival, the Strawberry Festival Parade, will take place on Saturday, May 27th, and will feature Celebrities, Elected Officials, GGUSD and visiting bands, equestrian units and much more.

The Strawberry Festival Board is made up of a multitude of volunteers who are dedicated to providing the City of Garden Grove the best Festival yet.

2023 GGSFA Elected Officers include:

Andrea Perez, Festival Association President with Taylor Perez as Associate

Mark Mahoney, President Elect, Games/Permits/Carnival/Food/Nominations Chair; with Miles Mahoney as Associate;

George Skelton, Treasurer, Donations Committee with Suki Carter serving as Associate Heidi Levesque, Secretary, Contests with Nicole Sate as Associate

2023 GGSFA Directors and Associates include:

– Pat Catlin, Immediate Past President, Tents and Electrical, with Billy Catlin as Associate – Dr. Dawn Miller, Special Children’s Day, with Denise Webster as Associate

– Laura Neuschafer, Opening Ceremony/Cake Cutting with Malu Mendoza as Associate

– Fred Ramirez, Office with Frederico Ramirez as Associate

– Debbie Mahoney, Scholarships, Associate TBD

– Sherri Larson, VIP Breakfast, Associate, TBD

– Sue Catlin, VIP Lunch with Joyce Claussen as Associate

– Ben Santos, Environmental (Grounds/Sanitation), with Tony Lopez as Associate

– Jeff Sanders, Parade Coordinator, with Kim Sanders as Associate

– Bill Gutaskus, Rentals/Carts/ATMs with Sue Gutaskus as Associate

– Patti Catlin, Commercial Vendor Booths, with Susanne Rangel as Associate

– Josh Lindsay, Staged Events, Associate, TBD

– Steve Sanders, Rides and Grounds with Ryan Sanders as Associate

– Scott Weimer, Parking/Fencing with Marilyn Tortolano as Associate

– Christine Ball, Insurance, with Robin Suarez serving as Associate

– Randy Arbgast, Civic Food Booths/Permits, with Donald Schlensker as Associate

“We are excited to host the Garden Grove Strawberry Festival again this May, over Memorial Day Weekend,” said Perez, “Our festival is a great opportunity for residents and visitors to come together to celebrate this long standing family tradition as well as the city’s rich agricultural heritage, which is such an important part of our history and community.”

Admission to the festival is FREE and open to the public. The festival will take place Memorial Day weekend, May 26th-29th, 2023 at the Village Green Park, located at the Village Green Park, at the corner of Euclid and Main Street, Garden Grove, 92840.

Watch the event sizzle reel