Natural Chula

Natural Chula's 30 day Fitness and health challenge Meal Plan guide

2016-09-04T09:16:00.000-04:00

Many of us are on different paths with our healthy journey, so I have created several options to help you reach your goals. Check to see your proper calorie intake and use the meal plan as your guide. Every meal can be substituted for a healthy smoothie.

Click here for the Calorie intake guide

Meal 1

Option 1: 1/2 cup oatmeal + 1/2 banana + 1/2 cup egg whites + 1 cup of berries (on the side)

Option 2: 3 egg whites + 1 whole egg + 1 cup spinach + 1/2 cup veggies of your choice (tomatoes, peppers, mushrooms) + 1 slice of Ezekiel bread or other sprouted grain bread

Meal 2

4 oz. protein + 1 cup veggies

Option 1: Grilled chicken breast with asparagus

Option 2: Baked tilapia with broccoli topped with seasoned extra virgin olive oil

Option 3: Sardines served with mixed greens salad

Meal 3

4 oz. protein + 1 healthy carbohydrate (+ 1 cup veggies: optional)

Option 1: 1 can tuna (in water) with 1/2 yam, and 2 tbsp. salsa

Option 2: Grilled tofu with 1/2 cup brown rice and 10-12 walnuts

Option 3: kidney beans with 1/2 cup quinoa & 1/2 sliced avocado

Meal 4

Option 1: 1 scoop protein powder + water or almond milk

Option 2: 1 cup carrots or celery + 2 tbsp. hummus

Option 3: 1 apple + 1 tbsp. natural nut butter

Meal 5

4 oz. protein + 1-2 cup veggies

Option1: 2 cups mixed greens + grilled chicken or turkey

Option 2: lean beef burger + sautéed veggies (carrots, onions, peppers)

Option 3: chickpeas salad (with peppers, mushrooms, parsley, lemon juice, etc.)

TIPS

Caloric intake: This meal plan contains approximately 1500-1600 calories. In order to customize it, calculate your daily caloric requirements with the calorie calculator and make the necessary adjustments (ex. if you need more calories, you can increase your portion size or if you require a smaller amount of calories, you can stick with 4-5 meals instead of 6). Just make sure that you are eating a minimum of 1200 calories per day for optimal results!

Protein sources: Chicken, turkey, extra lean beef, white or fatty fishes , eggs & egg whites, tofu, beans and lentils.

Healthy fats: Extra virgin olive oil, nuts & seeds (hazelnuts, almonds, cashews, walnuts, natural nut butter, chia, sunflower & flax seeds, etc.) avocado, wild salmon & other fatty fish (tuna, mackerel, herring, trout sardines).

Healthy carbs: Vegetable, fruits, beans & lentils and whole grains which we will use as our healthy carb source since we’ve already listed our fruits, veggies and beans in the food options above (brown rice, yams, quinoa, oats, whole wheat pasta, barley, bulgur, etc.)

What to drink: Water & tea. If you cannot go without coffee, limit it to one cup a day using stevia and only a little bit of low-fat milk or almond milk. Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning and before each meal to stay well hydrated and keep you from overeating.

Eating intervals: Since we will be eating 5-6 meals a day, it is important to space them 2-3 hours apart. This will rev-up our metabolism and provides your body with a steady flow of energy throughout the day.

Appetite Suppression and metabolism boost: add 2 tablespoons coconut oil to your diet per day in your smoothie, oatmeal or tea.

How to prepare your lean protein: Your protein should be boiled, grilled, baked or steamed.
Meal 6: Is optional, if you do not feel hungry, feel free to skip it but it’s always good to have some nutrients available for proper recovery while you are at rest.

What to expect: Fat loss & more muscle definition! You can expect to lose 1-3 pounds per week of pure fat, anything more than that can be water or simply the body cleaning up.

Condiments and seasoning suggestions: Lemon juice, garlic, hot sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinaigrette, low-sodium soya sauce, & spices (limit your sodium intake).

Preparing your meals: It’s always practical to have something ready in the fridge, especially when you are following a strict diet like this one. Do your groceries at the beginning of the week and plan out the week’s menu ahead. You can even start preparing your food and placing it in Tupperware to make things easier (cooked rice, grilled chicken, turkey patties, sautéed veggies, cut up veggies and mixed greens ready to make salads, etc.). I also find it practical to separate my meals into portion sizes so I don’t have to worry about overeating when I get back home from a busy day.

Check the files at www.facebook.com/groups/naturalchula
for recipes

Natural Chula's 30 Day Fitness and health Challeng Sept 2016, The Rules

2016-09-04T08:56:00.000-04:00

It’s finally time for our 30 day challenge. This challenge is to promote life changing habits. We are not on a diet but a life change that includes making healthy choices.

Lets talk about the rules:

-Start the challenge with a before picture and weight loss goal.
-Join a group and choose a partner, make sure that they are posting at least once a day, and if not encourage one another to get back up and keep going!
-Accept one weekly Challenge.
-Follow our Workout Calendar: We will have weekly “at home workouts” ideas so subscribe to www.youtube.com/user/naturalchula1 for weekly routines.
-Calorie count daily, try Apps like S Health, Lifesum, or Myfitnesspal
-Use the “naturachula30day” #hashtag on social media (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, etc.) to share your progress with the rest of the community.
-Rest at least once a week from your workout.
-Incorporate 1 active fun day a week i.e. belly dancing, skating, hiking, paddle boarding, swimming. Post pictures and calories burn (Incorporating Lifestyle changes will help with long term weight loss)
-In order to actually lose the weight, remember working out can only take you so far. Eating properly will be the key. Do not alter the meal plan, unless it is medically necessary.
-Post pics daily! The key to accountability is posting pics, post your meals daily and get in the habit of taking pics of what you are eating and the calorie intake, this process is time consuming, however it will get you in to a lifestyle change of watching what you eat and making great decision. Posting a pic of your work is mandatory as well. (The ladies that have been the most successful have been the one’s that post 3 times a day with workouts and meals, this makes you accountable, but also encourages someone else who doesn’t feel like working out that day)
-Drink 8-10 6 oz cups of water per day
-1 cheat meal per week, try not to go over 500 calories with this meal, but it’s your choose!
If you haven’t joined the group, the address is www.facebook.com/groups/naturalchula
Let’s do this!

Here is a video explaining the rules
Natural Chula Youtube

Leave in goodness

2015-02-01T17:48:00.001-05:00

I always have days where I want nothing to do with my hair. On those days, I want to look cute, but tuck my hair away neatly, and allow conditioners and oils to protect it for the day. My life hack, is a fun a cute bun that doubles as a deep conditioning protective style. After a co-wash, I saturate my wet hair with conditioner and oils. My issue, I have yet to find a good leave-in conditioner heavy enough to keep my curls, so I have had to use a rinse out conditioner. So imagine my excitement when I saw the Shea Moisture Jamaican Black castor oil strengthen, grow & restore leave-in conditioner. The conditioner is full of all kinds of good stuff, like pepper mint, Shea Butter and of course castor oil.
Tonight I will try the conditioner and let you guys no how it works.
Good night Chula's

All natural products hair journey!

2014-08-21T09:15:00.001-04:00

Today, I have finally found my happy place. My quest for healthy hair has been misconstrued with images of silky long curly hair, that hardly mimics my texture. The media has perpetuated a predetermined standard of silky thick curls that most natural girls dream of, but what if the realty of you hair is not so defined curls, dull tones, and short hair. Does that mean that your hair is unhealthy, or even worst not pretty! As I decided to embark on the "only natural products" journey, I began to analyze what I was trying to achieve, and have realistic expectations of my hair. For years I have only been able to grow my hair down to my arm pit, and the ends were always thin. After finally realizing that my hair was breaking just as fast as it was growing, I got the courage to cut the split end and now I have healthy shoulder length hair. My next step was to use the right products. Keeping my hair moisturized, was my goal, but most of the products I used, worked well, but at the end of the week, I had major build up. I was also still Confused about all of the different chemicals, even in the good brand. So that brings me back to my journey. I have incorporated only natural products in my hair regimen such as, goat milk prepoo and wash, coconut milk and aloe vera leave in, and my favorite aloe vera juice with rose water, jojoba oil, and rosemary oils spray. For 3 weeks these products are all I have been using. And to be honest my results are not shiny, and silky looking curls, my hair is full of not shiney, undefined curls but my hair is thick and moist and healthy. I would slather half of the container of my store bought products to get shiny, crinkly curls, and while I had great wash outs and braid outs, I still saw lots of breakage in the sink. I can say that my hair is softer, and I am experiencing less breakage with my homemades. Next we we will talk about each homemade, and look at results.

Clean Eating

2014-08-04T07:42:00.002-04:00

Well there’s a new Sheriff in town, and he’s called clean eating! Every week there is a new sensation floating around the web, promising lost of weight and healthy living through diets and lifestyle changes. For a while I tried to get into the Vegan lifestyle, always finding myself lacking time, innovation and desire to keep up with the veggie only diet! But if you know me, I am always looking for a lifestyle change that incorporates healthy eating and that encourages living life to the fullest! As I geared back up to loose 20 lbs and get my body in shape for the summer, I followed many body builders and fitness models, who declared a clean eating life! I thought.” Clean eating? What is that, washing your food thoroughly so that you get rid of the dirty fats and calories?”, I chuckled, but it was something new that I could definitely follow!

Clean Eating is eating for the sake of nourishing your body with food as close to it’s natural state as possible eliminating high sodiums, sugars and preservatives. There are no fancy meal plans, points, numbering systems, or calorie restrictions. When you begin to replace the processed, fried and unhealthy foods from your diet with whole grains, fruits, veggies and lean protein, your body will respond in amazing ways. Your muscles will respond to the added lean protein by growing which will speed up your metabolism. Your body will respond to the whole grains by regulating itself. Your body will also rid itself of water weight caused by excess sodium that is in processed foods. Your Hair will respond to the Iron-rich protein, which can boost the production of keratin in the body and improve the health of skin, hair and nails. Liver, fish and lean meats build keratin in your body.

Here’s how to get started

Eat Lots Of Plants – Eat food that is straight from nature. (Some people say “as close to the way nature made it as possible”. But I think that leaves too much wiggle room – in my humble opinion) Eat mostly foods that are off a tree, bush, plant or vine, and you’ve pretty much got it covered. The idea is to stay away from anything that humans (food corporations) have altered in any way.
Include Meats - Eat meats that are whole and straight from the butcher. Don’t buy pre-packaged meat products because you never know what’s in them. When possible, buy whole meats and grind them yourself. You’d be surprised what’s in ground turkey meat! You can also select a few turkey breasts and ask that the butcher grind them for you. Many butchers are more than willing to accommodate.
Enjoy Grains - Eat grains that are still complete and haven’t been broken down into “glue”. Stick to brown rice, whole wheat and other whole grains.
Read Labels I don’t know how many breads I’ve picked up at the store that say they are whole grain. But when I take a look at the ingredient list, white flour is the second ingredient after whole wheat flour!
Eat Fewer Ingredients. Try not to purchase foods that have more than 3-6 ingredients in the ingredient list. And be sure you recognize each and every ingredient. If you find a “mystery ingredient” such as “spices”, contact the company! Ask them what they consider to be spices. If it’s anything other than honest-to-goodness herbs and spices, avoid it! And remember, if you can’t pronounce it, it probably shouldn’t go into your body.
Eat 5-6 small meals per day. This may seem like a lot at first. But remember, you are eating smaller portions. If you really have a hard time with this, prepare your regular three meals and a snack for the day, and divide lunch and dinner in half. You’ve instantly got 6 small meals!

Look out for Recipes that encourage clean eating and healthy hair growth!

Homemade Natural Products: Black tea rinse for shedding and breakage

2014-07-28T09:56:00.003-04:00

One of my biggest complaints with my hair is seeing the hair shedding. “Hair loss in women is, to a certain extent, normal,” says New York-based leading hair restoration specialist Dr. James C. Marotta “The average woman loses between 50 and 100 strands of hair per day, even up to 150 in some cases.” So don’t let those stray hairs in the shower drain scare you. So when I take down protective hairstyle, I am very cognizant on visually recognizing 5 days of normal shedding! But what can you do if it’s more than normal?

If you are losing an absorbent amount of hair, I would go to my dermatologist or Doctor, to ensure that here are no internal issues. Some Major causes of hair loss are heredity, Lupus, Hypothyroidism (too little hormone), Anemia, Alopecia/Skin conditions and conditions causing an elevation in testosterone. So ensuring that you are having regular visits with your doctor is important. Hair loss can also because by stress, diet and poor care of your hair! Poor care can lead to hair shedding and BREAKAGE!

There are hundreds of hair care products promising to alleviate breakage but I found a sweet alternative that you probably already have in your kitchen!

Black tea is full of antioxidants and caffeine that help hair to become stronger while helping to maintain its strength and elasticity to decrease breakage. The main benefit of caffeine located in black tea is that it blocks the DHT Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of the male hormone testosterone, from causing the hair to shed, black tea helps to increase thickness and decrease hair loss when used in small doses. Caffeine is also known to stimulate hair growth when it is used once a month, you don't want to overload your scalp with too much caffeine because it could stunt growth if you aren't careful. Another amazing benefit to including black tea rinses into your healthy hair care regimen is the sheen, luster, and natural darkness it brings. Using black tea is great for women who have dark black or brown hair and want to ward off gray hair or fading hair dyes.

Black tea rinses can be used once or twice as a part of your hair care regimen. Boil 6 cups of water, and add 3 bags of tea, let it sit for at least an hour to give it time to cool down. Pour the tea rinse directly on your hair then wrap your hair up in a towel to prevent the tea from running down on to your body. Leave the black tea rinse on for an hour or two then wash or co-wash your hair as you normally would.

Do you want great color that can gradually darken the grays? Try the Black tea with sage! It can work even better! Black tea will gradually darken hair with the sage opening the hair shaft to allow more color in.

Recipe

-a medium size pot 3/4 full of water
- 6 tea bags
- tablespoon of sage

First boil your water, open the tea bags and pour the contents into the boiling water, in addition to the sage. Boil this mix for 20 minutes, Next turn heat off and allow the mixture to steep, I let it steep for 2 hours. Then strain out the tea bags and sage and place into a spray bottle and soak your hair, make sure you squeeze out excess liquid. Let this sit for 30 to 60 minutes, then rinse with COOL water. You might not want to shampoo till tomorrow to let it dry and soak in. Repeat to darken/maintain your color. It may take several weeks to see the deep color of the tea!

This is definitely another natural product that I will be adding to my routine, next we will explore my homemade pomade, flaxseed/aloe Vera gel and my aloe Vera and honey leave in spritz!

This Weeks Featured Natural Chula

2014-07-01T23:14:00.000-04:00

Tell us who you are:

My Name is Myriem Korti, I prefer " MYA ". I am from France, Normandie. I have been Natural for 2 years.

What is your hair type: 3b/Normal Porosity

What is your Hair Regimen:

I use donkey's milk every morning. And I have a spray of water with me always in my bag.

What Products do you use:

I use donkey's milk every morning.

One Secrete that you can share that gives you great hair growth or a great style secret:

My secret for hair, is enjoy moments of relaxation everyday, because Less stress in life means beautiful hair.

What is your Instagram/youtube/Twitter so that fans can follow you:

Myamih

For More information on Donkey's Milk Check out Information on Donkey's Milk

Grow long healthy hair, through working out and eating healthy!

2014-05-30T09:25:00.000-04:00

I have always been a gym rat. I played Volleyball and basketball in high school and College, and I was fitness trainer while I was pregnant with my first Child. Working out is not a lifestyle change for me, it is my life! But as many of you know, so is hair. So the 30 day challenge was a great way to include everything that I love! But can working out and eating clean help with hair growth, you bet it does!

Obviously when you are healthy inside, everything coming out of your body will be as well. For the 30 day Challenge we were specific in targeting food that not only help with muscle growth, but also hair growth!

Protein, for example, is the building block of hair. If you don't get enough, your mane will grow more slowly, and strands will be weaker. "Pump up the protein," says registered dietician Dawn Jackson Blatner, author of the Flexitarian Diet. "Include a small dose at each meal and with each snack, and you'll keep your hair follicles strong." Safe bets include poultry, lean beef, fish, beans, and nuts.
Eating these healthy enriched food will guarantee hair improvements within six months to a year, depending on how fast your hair grows.
So let’s look at some of the foods;

Eggs. They're full of biotin, a B vitamin that promotes hair growth and overall scalp health. A deficiency can cause brittle hair. Other high-biotin foods include peanuts, almonds, wheat bran, salmon, low-fat cheese, and avocados.

Bananas These contain the mineral silica, which is thought to improve hair thickness, Jackson Blatner says. Emphasizing foods rich this mineral helps make hair stronger and more durable.

Dark green veggies. Load up on spinach, broccoli, and Swiss chard. They're packed with vitamins A and C, which help produce sebum—a scalp oil that works as a natural hair conditioner.

Sweet potatoes. These are packed with beta-carotene, which your body converts to vitamin A, a nourishing agent for your hair and skin. Vitamin A protects against dull hair and dry skin, a leading cause of dandruff. Other smart choices to get glowing hair and skin include carrots, kale, butternut squash, asparagus, and pumpkin.

Beans. Legumes like kidney beans and lentils are great sources of iron-rich protein. Lentils, in particular, play a role in hair maintenance and support.

Fish. Omega 3’s They support scalp health; a deficiency can lead to dry scalp and dull hair. Good sources include salmon, sardines, herring, mackerel, flaxseeds, and walnuts.

As for the workout its self here are the benefits:

Increases circulation to the scalp.
Healthier body = healthier hair.
Sweating releases toxins which are damaging to your body in general and can result in the appearance of your hair.
If you "feel" better and also "look" better, that lowers your body's stress levels.
It helps your scalp produce sebum, which is the healthy oils that coat your strands.

So if you are looking for another way to improve hair growth, join us for our next 30 day challenge, changing your life one day at a time!

For more information on the challenge check out our group on facebook:

Back to basics with Natural Hair Care

Turquoise Delight

2014-05-08T00:58:00.001-04:00

Summer is coming and white jeans are the delight of the season. This gorgeous turquoise look is pared with a shoulder onmbre top and White Dolce & Gabbana skinny jeans. This look is adorned with matching accessories. Completed this fun look with a high curly pony tail.

To get this pony tail, take a wash and go hairstyle and pull it up on the top of the head and secure it with a stocking.

To purchase this set go to the following link: Turquoise outfit

Lunch time

2014-05-07T13:39:00.001-04:00

Is this really a diet!!! Brown rice, kidney beans, blackened chicken, and salad with walnuts #arrozconhabichuelos #naturalchula30days #fitness #fit

A Smoothie to start the day.

2014-05-07T08:41:00.001-04:00

Smoothie time spinach ,kale, berries, bananas and protien, got the workout done now headed to work leggo!

Day 1 of the 30 day Challenge: My Vision Board

2014-05-06T08:26:00.002-04:00

Well I made it through day one. I can only describe it as exciting and wonderful! I started out my day with a great workout, then my hot water and lemon, then I left the house with my smoothie. As I drank the smoothie, I began to envision my bikini “Bod”. The smoothie, was not as tasty as I had hope but I was encouraged with my effort and gulp it down as I planned the rest of my day. You see working out and staying fit is not my challenge but eating right is. I packed 4 great vegie meals. A cucumber salad, tomatoes and onion salad, Kale salad with 3 oz of chicken, carrots and celery with Greek yogurt and walnuts to snack on. I knew that with proper prep, I could really do this!

My day went well, I munched on my veggies, and to my delight I didn’t get hungry! I can do this “I thought”, as I blissfully went through my head and planned out the two piece bathing suit I was going to buy this summer.

When 4:00pm rolled around I was excited about getting home to take Latin Cardio! Latin Cardio has always been a passion of mine, whenever I take Cuic’s class It always leave sweating and panting, It has always been one of the best workouts that I have taken! “Latin Cardio, Check”, I got it done and He did not disappoint! So, after my workout I got ready for my biggest meal for the day, a large Kale, Spinach salad with 3 oz of chicken and a side of kidney beans and veggie broth! I finished it all right in time for my 30 minute bath.

Today, as I prepared for breakfast I created my vision board, the bible encourages us to speak things into existence, your vision board can help you see, believe and achieve the things your want. It can also help you see your goals. As I pulled together the pictures I became so encouraged, because I knew that I could do this! Your vision board is your road map, keep it close and if you have a weak moment pull it out and remember where you’re going! I am excited about another day, a step towards where I want to be in 30 days!

Starting the challenge off right!

2014-05-05T09:18:00.001-04:00

The #naturalchula30day challenge started today. Saturday I did a henna treatment, then a D.C, and decided to use a bun as my protectivestyle. This style will allow low manipulation and nightly massages. For details on my journey Check out us out @ www.youtube.com/user/naturalchula1

Homemade Deep Conditioner Recipes

2014-05-03T16:53:00.000-04:00

Deep conditioning your hair is essential for strength and added moisture, and there are several different types aimed to add the strength that you need. First let’s take a strand test to understand which conditioner is best:

To do the strand test, take one of your ‘shed’ hairs and wet it. (Note, the difference between a ‘shed’ hair and a hair that has broken off is the ‘shed’ hair will have a little white bulb on the end)

While holding each end of the hair and stretching it:
-If the hair stretches slightly and returns to its original length without breaking, you are balanced.
-If the hair stretches and continues to stretch or stretches a little more than it should and then breaks (snaps), then you need more protein in your regimen.
-If the hair has very little to no stretch to it and instantly breaks(snaps), then you need more moisture in your regime.

For Manageability and Moisture – Bananas, glycerin and honey

This homemade conditioner improves the manageability of my hair for post-rinse styling. The secret is in the banana, which has a way of minimizing shrinkage and softening the hair when mixed with the other ingredients. Meanwhile, glycerin and honey, which are both humectants, and olive oil, which is known to penetrate the hair, all contribute moisturizing benefits. Do not be alarmed if you notice a loosening of your coils or curls with this conditioner; the effect is temporary until your next wash day. This recipe is ideal for naturals who want to achieve easier blow-outs or better stretched styles.

Ingredients:
1 large overripe banana (sliced) OR 7 oz banana baby food
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp pure vegetable glycerin
2 tbsp pure honey

Instructions:
Place the sliced banana, EVOO, gycerin, and honey all in a blender. Blend the ingredients thoroughly making sure no lumps or banana bits remain. (Depending on your blender quality, you may or may not have to then sieve the mixture. Another option is to use banana baby food, though the conditioner may not be as effective.) Apply to hair and let sit for 30-45 minutes under a shower cap. Detangle, rinse thoroughly, and style as usual.

For Detangling and Moisture – Avocados, olive oil, she butter

This homemade conditioner is lubricating, thick, and heavy, all of which give my kinks slip, moisture, and hang for detangling. The avocado’s meatiness and fatty acid content contribute to the effectiveness of this mixture. Additionally, the fatty acids in the olive oil combined with the emollient properties of shea butter add even more lubrication and moisturizing benefits This conditioner is ideal for those with thick, dense hair and major shrinkage.

Ingredients:
1 overripe avocado (sliced)
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
1/2 cup unrefined shea butter

Instructions:
Place the sliced avocado, unrefined shea butter, EVOO, into a blender. (There is no need to melt the shea moisture ahead of time.) Blend all the ingredients thoroughly and add more EVOO, if necessary, until the mixture reaches your desired consistency. When done, apply to the hair and let sit for 30-45 minutes under a shower cap. Detangle, rinse thoroughly, and style as usual.

For Strengthening and Moisture – coconut oil and honey

This conditioner is ideal for naturals whose hair dislikes protein conditioners but needs a bit of strengthening. The key is the coconut oil which binds to the hair thus reducing keratin loss. Honey, a humectant, is also added to the mix to impart moisture retention. I get the best of both worlds – moisture and strength – with this conditioner. I personally use two servings of the recipe because my hair is really thick, dense, and naturally dry.

Ingredients:
4 tbs of EVOO
2 tbs of Pure honey
(depending on hair density or length, you may use two servings of this recipe)

Instructions:
Place the coconut oil and honey in a small cup and place the cup in a large bowl of hot water. Allow the cup to sit in the water for a few minutes until the mixture is warm. Pour the mixture onto freshly washed but towel blotted hair. Put on a shower cap, and wrap with a towel to prevent mixture from dripping onto face. Let it sit for 20 minutes, then rinse out 80-90% of the conditioner, and style as usual.

To strengthen the hair
make your own protein treatment:

Ingredients:
One egg
¼ cup of mayonnaise and
4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
2 TBSP of Black Strap Molasses
½ cup of your favorite conditioner

This protein treatment should be done on dry hair before you co-wash with no heat. Leave on your hair anywhere from 30 minutes to 45minutes and rinse with COLD water ( hot water will cause the eggs to scramble and cook in your hair) once the egg treatment has been thoroughly rinsed out, co-wash hair then style.

Here is what I do:

Mix the ingredients in with my conditioner

The I place my hair in 4 sections and place the protein treatment in my hair for 30 to 45 minutes.

DC for Low porosity hair
Mix the following-
grapeseed oil
jojoba oil
argan oil
Allow to sit on hair for 20 minutes under a dryer then Rinse.
Or
Watered down Conditioners work best for deep conditioning.

Natural Chula's 30 Day Hair, Fitness and Health Challenge: Butt, Arm and Core workouts

2014-04-30T23:34:00.002-04:00

We are getting close to starting out challenge, The most important part is the fitness. The fitness will help your body get shaped and tones, but it also creates great blood circulation, that will help your hair. We will workout two times per day, starting your morning or lunch with a 45 minute workout focusing on toning! Then we will have an 1 hour workout session with Cuic Suarez strutting your stuff with Latin Cardio. You can implement any cardio workout but you need to get a solid 45 minutes to an hour, of a heart pumping work out. We will work 4 days then rest, reserving Saturday's for group meet-ups that should include morning runs, rock climbing even roller skating, this is where we are working on changing your lifestyle so that after the challenge you will incorporate activities that are fun, to keep you pumped!

First we will start with the best butt and thigh workout around. Every week add 5 reps. Take a look at how we are going to give you a butt to die for.

Here is the step by step video to help you do each exercise correctly. @ 30 day Butt transformation

Next we will focus on our arms.

Remember "high reps low weights", this will give you a sleek toned look. If you don't have weights try water bottles.

Here is the step by step video to help you do each exercise correctly. Sexy Sleek Arms

Then Finally we will focus on the core. Start out with 15 reps, if you want to take it up a "notch" then start at 30 reps, every week add 5 reps.

Here is a demonstration for some of the exercises go to this link Ab excercises

Now I hope that you guys are ready for that beach body! The Latin Cardio video will be uploaded by Friday! Cuic Suarez Will be on hand for any questions. Lets Go!

Join The Challenge @ Natural Chula's 30 day Challenge

Summer Fashion Trends:Shorts and Camisole Ensemble

2014-04-30T22:54:00.001-04:00

Well The 30 day Hair, Fitness and Health Challenge starts on Monday and I just can’t help planning all of the wonderful things that I am going to wear for the summer. This year bright colors, will lead the pack in the summer trends, short shorts and camisole’s never get old.

Take this assemble, perfect for a hot summer day, with a fashion edge that will definitely get you noticed.

Partnering this outfit with a tight bun perfects the look, giving you a fun whimsical presence that will definitely make you number one on every ones list! This is your look.

To get this bun, pull the air on top of the head and secure it with an "ouchless" band, Tuck the ends under and enjoy your cute protective style!

Buy these Items @ Shop for the ensenble

Getting in shape during the 30 day challenge with Cuic Suarez

2014-04-29T09:19:00.003-04:00

CUIC SUAREZ was born and raised in beautiful Mexico. For over two decades Cuic performed and has taught in all mediums of dance in the most prestigious theatres in Europe, Asia, Central and South America, as well as in the United States and Mexico; with Compania Nacional de Danza, Ballet Folklorico de Mexico, Joel Hall Dancers, Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, and the Joseph Holmes Chicago Dance Theatre. His unfurling love for dance has been met with international praise. While touring Asia with Ballet Folklorico de Mexico, Cuic was invited to perform for the Prime Minister of China during a special performance in his honor.

On stage Cuic has appeared in the musical touring productions of “West Side Story” and “Guys and Dolls”. He served as the choreographer for the production of “BEN-HUR” The Musical, premiering in Orlando, Florida; as well as the spanish version of “Saturday Night Fever” in Mexico City. Currently he stages numerous live musical shows for Disney’s theatrical productions. Using elements of ballet, jazz, lyrical, Latin and modern dance, he has created works for the Orlando Ballet and Ballet Monterrey among other dance companies. In addition, Cuic serves as a guest professor and choreographer throughout different colleges and universities across the United States.

It was his passion for dance and his commitment to fitness and wellness that inspired him to create LatinCARDIO and BodyBallet. Recognized as an authority in the dance and fitness industry, Cuic has been invited to appear as a presenter at international workshops and seminars for dance and wellness throughout several conventions around the world. Some of the leading organizations which have benefited from his work are; Jazz Dance World Congress, Dance in Disney Shoes, SCW Fitness, Star Power Dance, ACE FItness, IDEA Health and Fitness Association, Marriott Int’l, Mannatech, Canyon Ranch Spa and Georgetown University, among others. Cuic has been featured on network television including CNN International, FOX NEWS, TELEVISA, and TELEMUNDO. He is the producer and director of the Latin Dance World Congress which has taken place in the United States as well as Mexico. Cuic holds a B.A. in Theatre and Dance from the Academia de la Danza de Mexico.
Join us for 30 day of hard work and fun:
30 Day Hair, Fitness and Health Challenge.

Here is a preview of the classes:
Latin Cardio

30 Day Hair, Fitness and Health Challenge

2014-04-29T09:04:00.003-04:00

As I sat on my couch and got ready for the gym, I didn’t feel very motivated nor excited about my workout, eating habit and over all healthiness. I grabbed a chocolate protein bar and headed out the door and I though, “I need something to challenge me”. I wanted to get motivated to eat better, feel better and look better. I have always been one to rise to the occasion, so I began to put plans together for a fit and Health challenge but as I gathered information, I knew that I needed a swift kick in the butt on my hair routine as well. Although I knew, exactly what it was going to take to keep my hair properly moisturized and healthy, Lately, I barely made an attempt to take care of it. Well, I was ready to challenge all of the hair growth remedies as well as the definite instruction on proper moisturizing.

When I completed the program and talked to my family and friends, they all wanted to join. I though “Maybe we all needed a jump start for summer”, and that is how #naturalchula30days was started.

This challenge will consist of the Dr. Ox 2 week detox meal plan and then transition over to the 2 week High protein meal used by the NPC Bikini Competitors. We will take the weight of then build and tone your body.

We will have a set Hair regimen in place and it is a lot of work. However, the key to the 30 days is Moisture and protection. If you have a good routine, you can stick with that just follow the following rules

-Protective style all 30 days.

-Deep Condition once per week (20 min under dryer).

-No heat (except to deep condition on low).

-Massage hair every night for 30 days.

-Protein/Henna/Cherry Lola treatment once in the 30 days.
-Wear satin scarf to bed.

We will implement a fitness plan that will get your body ready for the summer! So who wants to join?

The Challenge starts May 5, 2014 you can join in all of the fun @ Join the #naturalchula30day

Natural Chula’s Rose Water Moisturizing Mist

2014-04-29T02:09:00.000-04:00

Rosewater is really a natural moisturizer that can reinstate your hair. Here are some of the benefits:

-Adding rosewater to your last hair rinse will offer soft and shiny hair.

-Nourishing and moisturizing properties recover the quality of hair.

-Treats mild scalp inflammations, and dandruff caused my fungal infections.

-Down to its natural anti-inflammatory and healing properties, rosewater efficiently eliminates mild scalp inflammation.

-A regular rosewater massage promotes blood circulation in the scalp. Improved circulation not only enhances the shine and strength of your tresses but also triggers the hair follicles to produce more robust hair. Rosewater massage is also found to be very helpful in fixing the hair loss issue.

Natural Chula’s Rose Water Moisturizing Mist

Ingredients and Procedure:
-2 table spoon of rose water
-2 drops of olive oil
-2 drops of sweet almond oil
-1 cups of aloe vera juice
-2 drops of glycerin
-Small spray bottle
Add all items to a spray bottle and Mix them. Make enough for one week.

Spray mist on hair every night.

Make your own Rose Water:
Ingredients:
1 cup of fresh roses or rose petals
Distilled Water

Put 1 cup rose petals in a large pot. Pour in distilled/bottled water, using just enough so the petals are covered. Put the pot on low and heat (do not boil) until the rose petals lose their color. Rose oil will start skimming over the water surface. This takes about 1 hour. Allow the water to cool, then strain water using a fine kitchen strainer, and pour the pure rose water into a spray bottle. Discard the rose petals. This method lasts even longer when oils are added to the water, keep refrigerated.

Why should you Pre-Poo: Pre-Poo Recipe

2014-04-29T01:54:00.001-04:00

Why should you pre-poo

A “pre-poo” is an oil treatment applied to hair, before shampooing or co-washing. Pre-pooing helps keep Moisture in the hair. Curls and waves, kinks and coils are always in need of moisture - and a pre-poo treatments are a sure way to give them the added, extra moisture when applied. Seasonal stress on hair such as heat, humidity, wind, salt water, etc, can leave curls extra dry. Adding a prepoo treatment to hair helps to restore lost moisture.

Though we all want our hair to be clean, sometimes, “squeaky” clean can be too much. Shampoos and other products can often strip the necessary oils that our curls need for shape, shine and definition - prepoo treatments help restore those oils and protect hair follicles. Pre-pooing is also good for detangling hair and removing tangles. After a pre-poo treatment you should notice soft, shiny hair. Your hair and scalp will be have restored moisture. . Making prepoo a part of your regular routine will show great improvements to your hair’s texture and sheen.

Natural Chula’s Pre-Poo recipe

1/2 Cup of Olive Oil

½ Cup of Coconut oils

1/2 cup of Honey I’m Strong by herbal essence

Heat up coconut oil and olive oil in Microwave then let cool. Add conditioner then seal in a container.

Directions
Thirty minutes prior to showering, wet your hands with the mixture and rub it into your scalp and hair from roots to end. Finger Detangle hair. You can also leave it on overnight for a conditioning treatment.

To cut or not to cut.

2014-04-25T13:13:00.006-04:00

“I am growing out my hair, so why would I cut it?” those were my thoughts as I worked so hard at growing my hair. It was such "a thing" when I relaxed to get the ends cut ever 6-8 weeks. I would watch my hair grow, only to have it snipped right back off by my hairdresser. When I went natural, I followed those same principles. But as I began to read through blogs and forums, I realized that if I didn’t have split ends or damaged hair, then what was the point of clipping my ends, so for three years I just let it grow, My hair grew long and big, and while I was not really doing much to damage my hair, I had quite a bit of split ends. When I braided my hair the braids were thick at the top and slender at the bottom. I never was able to wear a “fro”, because my ends were jagged and thin. What is the point of having long hair if it is not healthy? So slowly I began to cut my ends.

My hair was Jagged with uneven hairs 1/13/14.

The first time I took ¼” off. Then the next month, I took 1” off.

This is the next cut 2/9/14

As I began to see how healthy my hair looked, I shaped my hair, taking a total 2” off.

Now when I do my hair I have no small break offs in the sink or in my hands. And I was able to wear my fro and let it blow in the wind!

Only cut your hair when it is needed, here are some clues that it’s time for a trim.

-when you see hair shedding that is broken off pieces versus full pieces of hair.

-Your braids are thick at the root and thin at the ends

-Your hair will not grow and stays the same length.

-you have uneven jagged edges

Using Cantu for my dry braid out.

2014-04-23T15:36:00.001-04:00

I have been trying to find the right curl cream to perfect a dry braid out. I used cantu, and this is my result. It frizzed within 3 hours, altough it was raining I expected to make it through the night. Back to the drawing board. What are you using for your dry twist/braid out?

Big hair don't care.

2014-04-18T11:29:00.001-04:00

Ok, so as I'm getting my hair prepped for my co-wash, I took my hair out of my protective style and began to pick it out. then Bam, I had a Afro! I rocked it to the grocery store, Chaka Khan was playing as my sound track. I feel so excited about www.facebook.com/naturalchula , every hour we feature beautiful hair, our hair! This icons have inspired me to love and accept my hair. So I am rocking this fro, well just at the grocery, and then it's back to protective mode! #bighairdontcare

Wash and go using Cantu products!

2014-04-17T20:17:00.001-04:00

This is a 3 day old wash and go using Cantu products, find out the pros and cons in my next you tube review, have you tried this yet?

Hair growth remedy

2014-04-15T12:50:00.001-04:00

Here is another hair growth remedy. Who's going to try this?