Tabla de contenidos para February - March 2021 en True Love

Exactly two and a half years ago, I embarked on what was to be a life-changing journey. I had worked in the media space for 15 years – 13 of them as an editor on various of our mainstream brands. During this time, I had also clinched the post of Head of Content for an international social media app. So, 15 years on, I decided that enough was enough: I was going to be a stay-at-home mommy and wife, and maybe look after our family’s business ventures as well. The baby project had been a long time coming, so my now two-year-old girl came as a wonderful gift. She’s the hardest job I’ve ever been tasked with, but is a daily delight to have and hold. We are truly blessed.…

Previously underrated, baby heels are now back in fashion. It’s a good idea to add these shoes to your collection as they’re fun and easy on your feet, ensuring that you won’t end up with blisters. For comfort and making a fashion statement, you can’t go wrong with a pair of these babies.…

Leather is back in style, as demonstrated on the SS21/AW21 catwalks by Paco Rabanne and Altuzarra. If you’ve invested in a leather jacket, shirt, pants or any other piece, you’ll get lots of wear out of it — and not only this season. Leather is a good investment: the material is durable, functional and one of the few that actually gets better with age if you take proper care of it.…

A good night’s sleep is essential for glowing skin. When you sleep every night, your skin regenerates and repairs itself. A night-time skincare routine that focuses on repairing your skin and hydrating it helps to keep your complexion clear and your skin firm. It’s like hitting the “undo” button on all the damage done to your skin during the day when your skin is prone to picking up dirt and all the other impurities.…

Brushes aren’t only reserved for make-up artists. If you’re planning on trying new makeup trends and looks, you need to invest in the right tools for complexion perfection. Your secret to immaculate make-up application starts with the tools of the trade, all you need are a few key brushes.…

If you keep on treating your hair as if you’re doing a science experiment, you’re bound to have endless problems. Overstyling, colouring and processing hair can cause it to break, leaving it damaged. Brittle hair is the most difficult to repair. Deep conditioning regularly and steering clear of any hairstyle that puts pressure on your hair will help to repair it. What to do when your hair is brittle and breaking? If your hair is tangled, use leave-in and deep conditioners as normal conditioner won’t repair the damage. Leave-in conditioner has additional protein, which is deeply absorbed due to the longer leave-in time, thereby restoring the moisture balance of the hair. If hair is dry, jojoba oil should be your BFF. It’s the best hydrator and good for strengthening the…

SCHICK Our Hydro 5 Razor is designed like no other razor to protect your skin from irritation and provides you a close, smooth shave. The unique Hydrating Gel Reservoir hydrates and delivers 40% less friction than lube strips*. Price: from: R129.95 Schick® Intuition® is the first and only razor system that lathers, shaves and moisturizes during shaving – in one easy step – so there’s no need to use shave gel. The perfect razor for women who are on the go! Price: from R119.95 UNILEVER SUNLIGHT Liquid Add a cap of Sunlight Summer Sensations Auto Washing Liquid to every laundry wash to give your clothes a sensational clean. Made with the best that Sunlight offers, it will clean your clothes thoroughly and leaves them with a long-lasting fragrance too. Recommended…

Taking time out to take care of yourself is not only beneficial to you, but it can also benefit your kids. As a mom, you constantly need to recharge so that you can give your best. Remember that you can’t be any good to anyone if you’re not good to yourself. Here are some guilty pleasures to help you unwind: SPA DAY. Going to a spa for a massage or facial is a great way to relax and distress. GO OUT WITH THE GIRLS. Most moms feel guilty about going on a night out with friends, but this is your chance to have some grown-up time. Enjoy a night out with your girls and just unwind. TAKE A YOGA OR PILATES CLASS. If you want a place to go where…

It’s 2021 and many sex books have been published. Sex shops have also mushroomed all over our country, even in townships, making sex no longer a taboo in our society. But sadly, the idea that good girls don’t enjoy sex, for the sake of it, is very much alive. Women who want sex for pleasure are labelled as bad girls and, according to Cape Town-based psycho-sexologist Chantal Fowler, they’re shamed for this. This is known as “slut-shaming”. “Thankfully, it’s being challenged more and more,” says Fowler, adding that women are socialised to avoid the social reprobation (slut-shaming) that comes with expressing “bad girl” sentiments about sex. These entail having sex purely for pleasure, regardless of the relationship status with the sexual partner. “Of course, the flip side is that men…

Struggling to make the right decisions for a better financial future? Worry no more, Old Mutual’s Karabo Ramookho helps you stay on the right track with your money, thanks to these do’s and don’ts: DO STAY INVESTED. If you have investments and you’re struggling to continue making your payments, speak to your financial adviser about the options that are available to you. DO PAY OFF YOUR DEBT. If you’re heavily indebted, focus on paying off the debts with the highest interest rate. Again, speak to your financial adviser and your creditors instead of just stopping payments. DO EDUCATE YOURSELF. We all have different goals, needs, affordability and risk appetites. To know what will work for you, read and educate yourself and speak to a financial adviser for solutions that are…

In South Africa, one in five women has experienced physical violence by a partner, that’s according to the Social Policy Network. In addition, government’s Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) Command Centre reported more than 120 000 cases of GBV in the first three weeks of the national lockdown that was implemented in March last year. These statistics reveal the grim reality of how GBVF is a far worse pandemic than COVID -19 in this country. And unfortunately, says Joanne Laskey, a clinical psychologist practicing in the COPE Therapy team at Akeso Stepping Stones mental health facility, an abusive partner is unlikely to change. “In most circumstances, your only option for self-preservation is to get out of the situation before it is too late, as the deeply disturbing rates of gender-based…

A BEER TO SAVOUR They say if it gives you the “kwetsa” effect, then you’re definitely drinking the original iGemmer. iGemmer is a beer concentrate that has been part of many Africans celebrations; it is the drink of choice for many communities in Mzansi. Continue toasting those special occasions with your loved ones by placing an order for iGemmer ginger beer. Call iGemmerBeverage Solutions on 084 209 5557, or find them on Twitter at @iGemmer_. GOOD GIRL CHARM Meet the latest addition to the Carolina Herrera family, the Good Girl Eau de Parfum Suprême Natural Spray, a reinvention of the iconic Good Girl fragrance. The new formula is daring and seductive. It combines succulent berries and potent Egyptian jasmine with creamy tonka beans and vetiver. It’s bold, unapologetic, provocative and…

FABRIC THAT MOISTURISES Under Armour introduces moisture-infused fabric to help athletes who suffer from dry and itchy skin. Say goobye to uncomfortable gym days and hello to better days. The UA Meridian + Moisture Infuse collection will be available in all major brand house stores. Infuse Meridian 7/8 Leggings cost R1 499, and the UA Infuse Meridian Stirrup R1 799. For more info, visit your nearest branch! FASHION MEETS JEWELLERY Africa’s favourite fashion designer Palesa Mokubung of Mantsho has collaborated with jewellery designer Ovazania to present a collection of fine jewellery. Their collaboration aims to curb the further spread of COVID-19 by reminding everyone that they may not leave home without their masks. Palesa and Ovazania thought to add a stylish flair to many women’s wardrobes by creating this capsule…

There’s something mysteriously attractive about a lady in red. This colour associated with passion, love and energy was spotted on the AW20/21 runway shows of Michael Kors, Givenchy and Mugler and proved to be a showstopper!…

“I consider myself to be much more than just an influencer-I’m a creative whose magic has yielded great achievements. Above all these titles, I’m a beautiful and proud black woman” BRIEFLY TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF. I consider myself a powerful force who breaks boundaries and gives a completely new meaning to the term ‘influencer’. For me, being an influencer goes beyond influencing my audience’s purchasing decisions. It means building long-lasting and authentic relationships with my audience by initiating honest and thought-provoking conversations that dig deep into their thoughts, emotions and beliefs. In fact, I consider myself to be much more than just an influencer – I’m a creative whose magic has yielded great achievements. Above all these titles, I’m a beautiful and proud black woman. HOW DID THE FIX KONVERSATIONS…

Fine lines, saggy skin and loss of elasticity are all signs of natural ageing. The production of collagen in your body decreases as you get older, which results in skin becoming less elastic and wrinkles becoming more visible. Nobody can stop the ageing clock completely, but there are tricks you can use to slow down the process. Keep your skin tight and firm as you dance into your 30s and beyond.…

Finding a signature scent takes time as the scent needs to be distinctively you and help you stand out. You may be seeking a new fragrance, or you may prefer something trendy to spritz on – either way, you’ll find the search for your ideal scent both challenging and fun. Floral and spicy scents are at the forefront of fragrance trends this year. Think of floral bouquets in pretty bottles when shopping for a perfume.…

Society tends to glorify women who take care of others more than they care for themselves. There’s an assumption that just because you can take care of others, you’re a superwoman who is also capable of taking care of yourself. Sadly, this is not true. People who take care of others often neglect themselves and their wellbeing. Many people have dubbed this year “a year of setting aside resolutions and letting self-care reign supreme”. By prioritising your needs and making sure your body, mind and soul function at optimum levels, you’re able to excel in most areas of your life. Don’t feel guilty and think you’re being selfish by putting yourself first. You’re doing what is best for you, and this allows you to declutter your mind and refocus. 1…

Prioritize your needs first before helping others. Understand your strengths, weaknesses and triggers. Name your limits and set clear boundaries about your physical, emotional, mental and financial limits. Avoid explaining or justifying your boundaries. Remain calm, respectful and compassionate; learn to reject requests and behaviours without being rude. Avoid reacting or being drawn into their anger, drama, or toxic behaviour. Don’t spend too much of your time trying to make them see your perspective. You can’t change others and it’s okay to detach by distancing yourself or cutting them off. Don’t be too hard on yourself, be patient and don’t give up. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, confide in someone you trust or seek help from a trained expert like a psychologist or family counsellor.…

Be open to exploring your desires and what gives you pleasure. You need to have some idea of what you want before you invite your partner to explore with you. Don’t be judgemental about your partner’s needs or your own. Create a safe space to communicate with each other. Open communication means being able to say “no” to something you are not comfortable with, but also accepting “no” when your partner is not comfortable with something. Make time for intimacy. Take your time discovering and enjoying each other’s pleasure with no pressure Build a repertoire with your partner. Gradually build trust and introduce your likes and dislikes slowly and respectfully. Avoid bringing shaming and disrespect into your bedroom.…

It is challenging to escape abuse or defend yourself while living in an abusive home. Joanne Laskey, a clinical psychologist practicing in the COPE Therapy team at Akeso Stepping Stones mental health facility, suggests the following steps to break free from the situation: IDENTIFY SUPPORT: Do you have family, friends, neighbours, a doctor, a mental health professional or a social worker who could assist with the support you need? IDENTIFY WHERE YOU CAN SAFELY GO: Members of your support network may be able to provide immediate shelter if you need to leave for your safety or that of your children. STRATEGISE: When and how you can leave the house and get to a place of safety. GET TOGETHER THE CRITICAL THINGS: These are the things you would need to leave,…

ROAST ROSEMARY CHICKEN AND MUSHROOM Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 40 minutes Serves: 4 INGREDIENTS 800 g chicken thighs and drumsticks Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 2 garlic cloves 2 tbsp olive oil 5 sprigs rosemary 250 g button mushrooms 1 cup chicken stock Fresh rosemary to garnish METHOD Preheat the oven to 230 °C and season the chicken. Crush garlic and smear onto the flesh. Place the chicken skin side up in an oiled roasting pan. Tuck in the rosemary sprigs and roast for 30 minutes. Cut the mushrooms into quarters and add to the chicken, together with the stock. Roast for a further 10 minutes or until the chicken is brown and tender. Garnish with rosemary and serve. PORK FILLET AND GREEN PEPPER…

The COVID -19 pandemic has made travel unpredictable because countries go into lockdowns unexpectedly. But this shouldn’t be the reason you don’t plan your next trip. Victoria Falls, which lies on the mighty Zambezi River, forming a natural border between Zambia and Zimbabwe is a great start. Here, you will come face to face with one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. WHY THE VIC FALLS? Victoria Falls, known as the “Smoke that Thunders”, because of the clouds of mist that rise up when it’s in flood, it’s the largest sheet of falling water in the world. It’s an experience well worth your time and money. While the falls are at their most dramatic from February to July, when the river is in full flood, the summer holidays…

Q: You have extensive experience in television, please tell us about your journey. A: I’ve worked in broadcasting for most of my career, having spent 24 years with my previous employer. I’m fortunate enough to have worked across various parts of the value chain – from studio facility management, project management, system implementation, commercial sales and eventually, TV content and channel management. Q: The business of entertainment in South Africa has evolved over the years. How do you feel about it? A: Indeed, we have seen a remarkable evolution of new players in the industry and audiences are exposed to many platforms and options through which they can consume content. This has opened opportunities for new producers to come into the industry and break the mould with different offerings. We’re…

The ‘80s-inspired oversized jacket is bound to be a hit this season, if recent runway shows are anything to go by. Daring and stylish, these blazers are usually reserved for the office, but modern designs give them a feminine edge so you get to rock them on ladies’ night or even at family gatherings.…

Mask up FACE MASKS AREN’T GOING AWAY ANYTIME SOON. GET INTO THE HABIT OF COORDINATING YOUR OUTFIT WITH A TRENDY MASK. Crown ADD A REGAL TOUCH AND STAND OUT WITH AN ELEGANT ALICE BAND Hands-free THE CROSS-BODY BAG HAS BECOME THE PEOPLE’S FAVOURITE — IT’S PORTABLE AND USER-FRIENDLY. Layer up THE COOLEST JEWELLERY TREND RIGHT NOW IS TO BREAK EVERY RULE IMAGINABLE AND LAYER AS MUCH AS YOU WANT!…

A SANCTUARY FOR THE SENSES THE HOUGHTON SPA IS A PLACE WHERE TIME STANDS STILL AND EVERY MOMENT IS DEDICATED TO SERENITY. THIS METROPOLITAN SPA, TUCKED AWAY IN AN AFFLUENT SUBURB OF JOHANNESBURG, OFFERS THERAPIES TO HELP HEAL THE MIND, BODY AND SOUL. WHETHER YOU’RE IN THE CITY FOR BUSINESS OR RELAXATION, THERE’S A TREATMENT PACKAGE FOR YOU. CHECK OUT THE SPA’S IMPRESSIVE RANGE OF TREATMENTS AND BOOK A SESSION TODAY! GET YOUR MASK ON Experience the purifying effects of the ENVIRON® Anti-Pollution Masque, R515. It’s made from special botanicals and Japanese charcoal to help absorb pollutant impurities and hydrate the skin, leaving it smooth, radiant and revitalised. It certainly deserves to be added to your self-care Sunday routine. NAIL YOUR COLOURS Add some spice to your nails with ultra-luminous…

There is a new selction of foundations on the market, and they are supercharged with built-in skincare benefits. These skin-enhancing bases not only help you fake perfect skin, they can actually blast away breakouts, erode uneven texture and minimise the appearance of fine lines. Antioxidants, SPF and hyaluronic acid are great ingredients to look out for when you’re searching for the foundation that’s right for you.…

Choosing a new hairstyle can be confusing at times. The natural hair movement has made things easier, giving women more freedom to play around and bring out the beauty of their natural hair texture. TEXTURE PLAY Mixing one or more textures of hai r on a hairdo has become the new normal. Think of braids paired with curly extensions, or afro hair with some plaits. It’s a bold trend that needs a daring personality. It’s not for everyone, but it’s super trendy. SHORT & CHIC Short hair is here to stay. Whether it’s a pixie, a buzz cut or just a plain cut, you will certainly get noticed. Have fun as you experiment with edgy ways to cut your hair. Throw in OTT hair accessories for those extra special days.…

UNDER-EYE SPARKLE Amp up your style. Instead of wearing glitter on your eyelid, switch it around and try it under your eye. A liner on the upper lash will define your eyes, while the shimmer from the glitter will help open them up. PERFECT SKIN A natural make-up finish has proven that less is, indeed, more. Let your true skin tone and texture shine through. Radiant skin is the new full cover make-up look. Leave the rest of your face bare, and add some nude eyeshadow and lipstick. LASH OUT The longer and more exaggerated your eyelashes are, the more on trend you are. Put on falsies and apply mascara to get both length and volume. Feathery brows make a great accessory to dramatic lashes. This look will help you…

Fundi recommends that you do the following to show yourself self-love and care: MIND Change your behaviour. This allows you to be self-aware. Follow your heart if you normally use your mind when making decisions, or vice versa. That can include changing your normal routine or being present in instances where you are normally on autopilot – for example, reading a magazine while in the bathroom instead of browsing your phone. Take time out for self-care. Unplug for an hour. Switch all your electronic gadgets to airplane mode and free yourself from your normal activities. Take a nap, drink tea or listen to birds in your garden. Create a deliberate self-love habit. Make a routine of something small in your life — like taking time to choose what you wear…

You’ve weighed up the pros and cons of being in a relationship with an emotionally distant partner — and have decided that your relationship is worth fighting for. Nhlabathi-Madonsela suggests minding the following: VALUES EXERCISE. What you value the most might be at the bottom of his priorities list, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that the two of you are incompatible. First determine if your concerns feature on his values list. If they don’t, you will probably always hit a brick wall. If they do appear on his values list, just at different rankings, then the relationship is worth fighting for. Have a values conversation regularly – at least every six months. EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION. Do you scream, give ultimatums or bring up issues as soon as he walks through the…

When your bank account becomes a playground for debit orders and you’re left with very little money to see you through to the next payday, the concept of financial freedom may seem lightyears away from your reality. But according to experts, financial freedom can be achieved by anyone – even you, who is doubting herself. DEFINE YOUR FREEDOM “Saving is preserving money for later use; a financial reserve that you can tap into without having to go out and borrow” Financial freedom isn’t really about being rich, but more about living a fulfilled life whereby you can afford to buy things within your means and you can comfortably attain the things you want without breaking the bank. For some, it’s about being able to take the family away for a…

Human resources executive, Nonoshee Nomachule Ramphele, offers tips for dealing with some common workplace dynamics. ABSENTEEISM Problem: You’ve been understanding about your employee’s personal problems, but now it’s getting out of hand and without a fail, they are absent once or twice a week. Solution: You can assist the employee by granting them a certain number of annual leave days so that they can sort out their personal issues. However, you need to make it clear that they have to return to work on the agreed date. If the absenteeisim persists, refer to the company policy’s disciplinary procedures. TARDINESS Problem: It is acceptable to be five minutes late, but an hour is pushing things too far. Solution: Identify the source of the lateness: is it transport issues or personal reasons?…

REEN - COLOUR OF NATURE, SYMBOL OF FRESHNESS. IN COLOUR THERAPY, GREEN IS ASSOCIATED WITH HEALTH AND WELLBEING. IT IS ALSO BELIEVED TO REDUCE STRESS, ENCOURAGE MINDFULNESS AND BOOST CREATIVITY. ADORNING YOUR HOME WITH GREEN ACCESSORIES INVITES AN AURA OF CALMNESS AND ATTRACTS DAYLIGHT INTO YOUR LIVING SPACE. YOU CAN SWITCH UP GREEN WITH A TOUCH OF GOLD TO GIVE YOUR HOME A LUXURIOUS FEEL. BOTH COLOURS ARE EXTREMELY EFFECTIVE IN ALL SORTS OF TEXTURES. USE THEM EFFECTIVELY TO ADD GLAMOUR AND ELEGANCE TO YOUR HOME!…

Nombulelo Boyana, founder of Chica Travel, a podcast started in 2019 that shares her travelling experiences, says people shouldn’t be afraid to take time out to travel alone. While there’s a misconception that travelling alone is lonely, Nombulelo begs to differ. “I love travelling alone,” she says. “Looking back at my travels, one of my best trips ever was a solo trip to Paris. Solo travel is great if you want to take time out to be on your own and reflect, or to rest because you can do things at your own pace and change plans as and when you like.” BEING ALONE DOESN’T MEAN LONELINESS Even though solo travel is not for everyone, she emphasises that it’s one of those things that you need to do at least…