COO of Mom Corps Maria Goldsholl Gives Her Best Advice

Posted on May 12, 2015 by Best Self Atlanta staff

BSA - Maria GoldshollCOO of Mom Corps Maria Goldsholl is here to share her best advice for mothering adolescents.

What is an enjoyable part of mothering children at this stage? 

Watching their “adult” personalities begin to form. I’m also particularly proud when I witness kindness in them – it makes me feel like we have done something right.

What is a challenge of this stage? 

When they are young, as long as you kept them safe and gave them love, you were successful. At this age, so much more can go wrong. A woman in the supermarket once said to me, “Small kids, small problems; big kids, big problems.” That couldn’t be more true!

How can Best Self readers support moms in their own lives? 

Help her lead a healthy life, whether it’s cooking for her, helping her with childcare so she can go to the gym or just providing and ear for the release of stress. I recently joined Iron Tribe Fitness, and the community there has helped me stay focused on my goals. It is so important to help each other be healthy so that we can be the dynamic, ambitious mom we want to be!

 

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Schedule Your Skin Cancer Screening!

Posted on May 11, 2015 by Best Self Atlanta staff

By Amy Meadows

BSA - May Best Health 2With May being National Skin Cancer Awareness Month and Monday, May 4 being recognized as Melanoma Monday by the American Academy of Dermatology, skin cancer awareness should be at the forefront of your mind this month. To help you stay on top of your own skin health, be proactive and check out one of these local community screenings and events. It could make all the difference.

SPOT me Skin Cancer Screening 

Presented by the American Academy of Dermatology

Date: Saturday, May 2, 2015, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Location: Emory University, Radiation Oncology Department, Decatur

Details: Screenings are free, walk-ins welcome, (404) 501-3295, aad.org

SPOT me Skin Cancer Screening

Presented by the American Academy of Dermatology

Date: Friday, May 8, 2015, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Location: Atlanta Dermatology & Laser Surgery, Tucker

Details: Screenings are free, walk-ins welcome, (404) 296-8000, aad.org, info@atlantadermatologyexperts.com

Northside Hospital-Atlanta Skin Cancer Screening 

Date: Wednesday, May 13, 2015, 6-8 p.m.

Location: Cancer Center, 1000 Johnson Ferry Road NE, Atlanta, GA

Details: Screenings are free but reservations are required. It’s recommended that you wear shorts and a T-shirt, and adults and children are welcome. (404) 531-4444. northside.com/healthscreenings

SPOT me Skin Cancer Screening 

Presented by the American Academy of Dermatology

Date: Saturday, May 30, 2015, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Location: Peachtree Road Farmers

Details: Screenings are free, walk-ins welcome, (404) 365-1078, aad.org

Northside Hospital-Forsyth Skin Cancer Screening 

Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2015, 6 – 8 p.m.

Location: TBD

Details: Screenings are free, but reservations are required. It’s recommended that you wear shorts and a T-shirt, and adults and children are welcome. (404) 531-4444, northside.com/healthscreenings

Miles for Melanoma Savannah 

Date: Saturday, June 13, 2015, 8:30 a.m.

Location: Daffin Park

Details: This run/walk in Savannah starts at 8:30 and costs $30 for adults, $20 for participants ages 6 to 30, and free for children under 5. melanoma.org

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2015 Over 40 & Fabulous! Advisory Board

Posted on May 11, 2015 by Best Self Atlanta staff

IMG_6418 high resSupport of Every Kind 

Molly Hopkins and Cynthia Decker | Livi Rae Lingerie | Breast Health/Self-Esteem

“Change your bra, change your life” is one of the unofficial mottos of Livi Rae Lingerie. It may sound cheesey to someone unfamiliar with their boutique, but Molly Hopkins and Cynthia Decker have helped enough clients to know that it’s absolutely true. Hopkins says, “We recently had a young girl who came in who was about four cup sizes different – she didn’t develop on one side.” They were able to fit her with the custom bra she needed so she could avoid a surgical procedure at a young age. 

Even with clients who don’t have a special circumstance like that, Hopkins says, “They feel like we’ve really taken the time to cater to their needs. Our clients become our friends,” Decker adds, “I don’t know any place that I can go that I’ll get a hug from the person that helps me. We find that we hug a lot in our store, and it’s very emotional and bonding.” A shopping trip that builds friendships and emotional support? It doesn’t get much more successful than that.

 

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May’s Best Bulletin – Best Pet Selfie Photo Contest

Posted on May 11, 2015 by Best Self Atlanta staff

Lauren Smith_Pippen_Fix Georgia PetsThey know they’re cute – they just can’t manage the selfie stick by themselves. Give your pets a hand a snap a selfie of the two of you together for our second annual Best Pet Selfie contest. Between May 15 and May 31, send your pet selfies to us at bestselfcontest@gmail.com or upload them  to our website. Then from June 15 to June 30, vote on Facebook for the cutest pics. The top three winners (determined by total votes on Facebook) will receive up to $500 for their pet-related charity, plus a prize package to pamper their pets.

Details: bestselfatlanta.com

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Timeline of a Stroke

Posted on May 7, 2015 by Best Self Atlanta staff

BSA - May Best Health 1Driving home from dinner, you glance over at your husband, and you know something isn’t right. His right arm appears limp – paralyzed , even. His speech is slurred and his mouth is drooping. What’s happening.

The First Minute

During a stroke, a blood vessel responsible for taking oxygen and nutrients to the brain is affected in one of two ways. Hemorrhagic stroke happens when a blood vessel bursts. The more common type is ischemic stroke, a clot blocks a blood vessel, and blood can’t get to the brain. “In ischemic strokes, the brain may continue to get some blood through back channels,” Dr. Lakhanpal says. “That may allow the tissue to survive for tens of minutes to a few hours.” But every minute that goes by, two million brain cells die. That’s why experts say that “time lost is brain lost.” It’s also why it’s important to get help right away.

The First Hour 

For people who have had an ischemic stroke, a drug called IPA can be give to bust the clot. The first hour after the onset of symptoms is known as the “golden hour.” That’s when the drug has shown the most benefit, helping to restore blood flow and to prevent further cognitive and physical problems.

The First Three Hours 

While getting treatment within the first hour is best, the window might be a little wider for some. “The clot-busting drug IPA is approved for use up to three hours.” Dr. Lakhanpal says, “and in some patients, it show some benefits up to 4.5 hours.” So if you think someone is having a stroke, don’t wait to see whether the symptoms go away on their own. The longer you wait, the greater the risk of long=term brain damage and death.

Gwinnett Medical Center is a nationally recognized leader in stroke care, with multiple accreditations and awards. Their comprehensive program includes having one of the best door-to-tPA times in the state, a dedicated neuroscience team and a leading acute rehabilitation program at Glancy Rehabilitation Center. To learn more, visit gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/g/glancyrehab.

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May’s Best Bulletin – Pint-Sized Peachtree

Posted on May 5, 2015 by Best Self Atlanta staff

Screen Shot 2015-05-05 at 1.45.09 PMWhen it comes to running, you’re never too young to start! That’s the philosophy behind the Peachtree Jr., a kid-focused version of the famed Peachtree Road Race. Children ages 7 to 14 can tackle the 3K. Kids ages 5 to 9 are the perfect size to try the 1/2K. And for your tiniest track stars 6 and under, the 50 meter dash is perfect. Each race option takes place in Piedmont Park on May 16, rain or shine, so register today!

Details: Registration ranges from $10 to $25, atlantatrackclub.org 

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Blogger at “Mamalicious Maria” Gives Her Best Advice

Posted on May 5, 2015 by Best Self Atlanta staff

Smith, Maria IMG_0201 8x10Blogger at Mamlicious Maria Maria Smith is here to share her best advice for mothering four young children.

What is an enjoyable part of mothering children at this stage? 

Little kids love their mama. They run to me at school pickup and are happier to see me than anyone else in my life. They are so open with their love!

What is a challenge of this stage? 

Being a mom of little kids is physically hard – I tend to have a child on my hip for most of the day. Lack of sleep, organization and privacy come with the territory.

What is the biggest misconception people have about this stage? 

People think it’s all play dates and crafty Saturdays, but they don’t understand that those play dates and projects might end in temper tantrums or a huge mess. Most people don’t understand the extreme amount of patience that is necessary.

How can Best Self readers support moms in their own lives? 

Do the same type of things you did when she first had her baby:  bring her a meal, offer to fold her laundry, take her kids to the park so she can shower alone. Even if her “baby” is 2, she still needs everyday help.

 

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Best Rx: ShapeMed by Life Time

Posted on May 5, 2015 by Best Self Atlanta staff

McKenna, MD, Mark_need credDr. Mark McKenna from ShapeMed by Life Time answers a reader’s question about Botox.

Q: I’m interested in trying Botox. How often should I expect to have injections? 

A: Botox typically is administered every three to four months. Allergan, Inc., the manufacturer of Botox, recommends treatment every three months. In practice, however, we recognize that each patient is different, so evaluation and treatment must be tailored to fit the needs of the individual. It is not uncommon for patients who have been receiving Botox regularly for a period of years to experience a benefit for five to six months.

 

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Madison James Healthy Lifestyle On The Go – May 2015

Posted on May 5, 2015 by Best Self Atlanta staff

Madison JamesDon’t leave home without it! When you hear that phrase, you automatically think car keys or maybe your cell phone. Yes, those are important, but what about adding exercise bands to that list? Yes, I said exercise bands!

I know it can be so hard to find time to work out, so make it fit in your life. If you travel, work crazy hours or only have 20 minutes of free time, grab your bands and work out. This is a very affordable and low-impact way to stay healthy and tone. Great places to buy exercise bands are TJ Maxx, Marshalls or Target, and most pre-boxed bands come with simple exercises to get you started. You can find great deals or less than $10 – workout equipment does not have to break the bank. PhotoGrid_1425440578908

Once you get your bands, start by standing on your band with feet shoulder width apart. From this starting point, you can do bicep curls, shoulders press, squats and abs. It’s a great, simple workout no matter where you are. So the next time you walk out that door, make sure you have your cell phone, keys and exercise bands.

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May’s Best Beauty

Posted on May 5, 2015 by Best Self Atlanta staff

By Laura Carson Miller

BSA - May Best Beauty 1The Word on Everyone’s Lips 

Murad’s Rapid Collagen Infusion for Lips is a multitasking serum that’s lightweight but truly packs a punch. Not only does it treat vertical lip lines and wrinkles with collagen support complex, it also helps them look plumper and fuller using mustard sprout to boost circulation. What’s more, it moisturizes with hyaluronic acid and shea butter and can be used under lipstick, gloss or balm.

Details: Pick it up at Sephora, Ulta or Massage Envy Spa locations,$24, murad.com

BSA - Best Beauty 4Serving Up Beauty 

Atlantan Sha’Donna O’Neal named her hair care line “Nancy’s Kitchen Products” after her beloved maternal grandmother and the way her family’s kitchen also served as their beauty parlor. Formulated with natural ingredients, the line offers silk buttercream deep cleansing wash, silk buttercream argan conditioner, deep moisture masque, hair growth oil and a shea olive hair smoothie. Nancy’s Kitchen Products are great for all hair textures, especially those craving moisture.

Details: 1290 Gresham Road #7956, Marietta, GA, (844) 545-6224, nancyskitchenproducts.com

DSS.HungarianMudPicture1Sugaring Adds Spice 

As spring fashions have you showing more skin, get over to see Marlonda Currie at Defined Sugaring Studio. “Sugaring is suitable for men, women and teens with all skin types, hair textures and skin sensitivities,” Currie explains, because this hair-removal process uses only 100 percent natural and biodegradable ingredients: sugar, lemon juice and water. The studio also offers services like their Hungarian Mud mask. Currie says, “That mask is anti-inflammatory while deeply penetrating tissues and clearing stored toxins. This is a must-try mask for clients with ingrown hairs and discoloration.”

Details: 375 Pharr Road, Suite 217. Atlanta, GA, (404) 464-7146, definedsugaringstudio.com

thehugbox_packageA Hug from Home 

Whether you’re sending your own mom a treat or celebrating one of your mom friends, Atlanta-based thehugbox will pamper the recipient for days after she unwraps the gift. Shoppers can choose from pre-packaged gift boxes filled with fun products for various occasions. This month, try the “Mom’s Day at the Spa” box, the “New Mommy and Me” collection, or the “Nothing Says Home Like Mom” option. That final choice contains products all from Atlanta artisans, such as lip balm from Turnrow Bath, Body & Home, herbal tea from Just Add Hone Tea Company and more, all to help Mom feel beautiful inside and out.

Details: $30 and up, thehugbox.com

Smile, It’s Strawberry Season! 

May means strawberries are in season (happy dance!) so in between popping them into your mouth for a healthy and delicious snack, try this simple recipe to put your best smile forward:

BSA - May Best Beauty StrawberriesStrawberry Teeth Whitener

2 ripe strawberries

1/2 tsp baking soda

Remove the leaves and stem, mash strawberries and mix them with the baking soda. Dip your toothbrush into the mixture and brush for two minutes. Malic acid strawberries is a natural stain fighter, while vitamin C makes short work of plaque.

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