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Q&A with Emma Lynds of Element Academy of Martial Arts

Friday, April 30th, 2010

Emma Lynds is the type of woman you would want by your side when you find yourself walking a dark, secluded street. But rather than depending on others for protection, this CRAVE girl wants women to learn how they can protect and defend themselves. Emma is the proprietor of the Element Academy of Martial Arts, a school offering a range of martial arts styles as well as personal training for adults and kids. The academy also holds women-only sessions and will be holding a special seminar on Saturday, May 8 to instruct women on the practice of self-defense. The afternoon has been designed to meet the real needs of women: women on their way to work; women out enjoying Vancouver’s open spaces; women waiting for a taxi or a  bus home. In other words: all women. To further prove her commitment to empowering women, Emma will be personally matching 10% of the class’s proceeds to the Big Sisters of Canada. Here, Emma talks about her courageous move into entrepreneurship, and her recommendations to beginners in the martial arts.

What inspired you to open your own business?

I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit and I felt that reward and success would only come with a career I was fully invested in.  The trick was in finding a viable business that would have potential for success and growth, and at the same time, fulfill the drive and passion in me to pursue something I loved. I had been studying and training in the martial arts since I was a teenager, and it was one thing that I was truly invested in with my whole being.  Martial arts changed my life and was my constant source of strength, growth, and development.  It seemed like the most natural thing in the world to use my own learning to teach others.

What advice do you have for women who have never done martial arts before?

My best suggestion is to really do your research on what kind of club or facility will be the best fit for you.  You should ask yourself why you want to take martial arts, what you hope to learn most, what type of instruction you respond best to. From there, you can create a short list of clubs/facilities close to your home or work. I believe that it’s really important for women to take martial arts and I think most women would be surprised and delighted at how fun, positive, inspiring, and empowering they will find it.  Plus, you’ll learn something new, be in great shape, and have a really good idea of how to defend yourself.

Are there any pre-requisites?

A good attitude, willingness to try new things, work hard, and be open minded to a whole new set of possibilities for yourself.  Martial Arts is for everybody – keep that in mind!  I’ve seen students from age 4 to 80, so anything is possible!

Save the Date!
What: Women’s Self-Defense Seminar, Website: Element Academy of Martial Arts
Where: 4465 Dunbar Street, Vancouver
When: Saturday, May 8th; 3-5 PM
To register: Email info@elementsacademy.com

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Go Green!

Wednesday, April 28th, 2010

When it comes to choosing  a tasty meal that’s also good for you, it’s a jungle out there. As all urban CRAVE gals know, temptations lies around every corner. And with spring in full swing, that temptation seems to grow like weeds, with graduation celebrations, weddings, and backyard barbecue’s offering up a bevy of rich deserts and grease-filled burgers. But for the wellness warriors of Vancouver, these savory spots provide a welcome respite from the bad stuff, with delicious, locally-grown greens that will make your taste buds dance. And you’ll be feeling so good, your body will probably follow.

Little Nest (1716 charles st)  is the perfect spot for grown-up girls to get a grown-up lunch. The cafe serves breakfast and lunch with a menu that evolves with the seasons so you know you’ll be getting the best local ingredients. Their salads make creative pairings that are packed with both nutrients and flavor, like the roasted beet salad, presented on a bed of organic black beluga lentils, pumpkin seeds, and various veggies.

Though the Secret Garden Tea Company (5559 West Boulevard) is most well-known for its piping hot cups of exquisite tea blends, their lunch menu offers an equally eclectic variety of fresh salads. Stop in for a Tandoori Chicken plate served with mango, avocado, and spinach or a West Coast chop salad that combines dried apricots, crisp apples, and seeds for an extra healthy lunch to power through the rest of your day. Ever the lady, don’t forget to raise your pinkie when lifting the salad fork!

Whether it’s a quick lunch or a 50-woman luncheon, Emelle’s Catering (177 West 7th Ave) always carries the freshest menu items with the most palatable flair. A staple among the Vancouver community, the company functions as a catering service, event venue, and restaurant. The menus offer a mixed bag of salad choices, from Pad Thai to local Sockeye Salmon Salad. They also have daily specials with an ever-changing and always fresh choice for healthy eating.

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Spring Eating for your Healthy Body

Monday, April 26th, 2010

We are all familiar with the old adage of Spring cleaning, but did you know that it doesn’t just apply to your closet? Spring cleaning is also important for our bodies and very helpful in flushing toxins, losing weight and creating increased energy. The best place to start your spring cleaning is with spring eating! Jamie G. Dougherty, owner and founder of JAMIE|LIVING, Health and Lifestyle Counseling, offers us a fresh approach. Spring foods are light, water-logged, and perfect for cleaning out our systems of excess junk. Some of the most popular spring foods include:

Asparagus: High in potassium and folate which aids the cardiovascular system- Roast with olive, sea salt, and pepper with a splash of balsamic vinegar.

Artichokes: A good source of iron and calcium- Steam and enjoy with your favorite vinaigrette.

Dandelion Greens: Aid in liver cleansing- Blanch, then sauté with garlic, olive oil, and top with currants and pine nuts.

Green garlic: Delicious young garlic plant that has anti-bacterial properties- A perfect addition to eggs or a frittata.

Radishes: Very high a vitamin C. Eat them raw or dip in hummus or your favorite dressing.

The best place to find spring foods it at your local farmer’s market where vendors will have the freshest produce available. Here is a perfect dish to get your started. Who ever thought spring cleaning could taste so good? Enjoy!

Asparagus and Brown Rice Salad with Dijon Vinaigrette and Toasted Pumpkin Seeds
Serves 4

For the Dijon vinaigrette:

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon brown rice vinegar or red wine vinegar
Sea salt to taste
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 small garlic clove or shallot, finely minced or pureed
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

For the salad:

1/2 pound asparagus, ends trimmed, cut in 1-inch pieces and blanched for 3 minutes
Sea salt to taste
2 cups brown rice, freshly made or leftover
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, tarragon, marjoram
1/3 cup toasted pumpkin seeds

1. Whisk together the lemon juice, vinegar, salt, mustard and garlic. Whisk in the oil, taste and adjust seasonings.

2. Cut asparagus into 1 inch pieces and place in boiling water for 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

3. Add asparagus to the rice and toss together with the Dijon dressing.

4. Add the fresh herb and pumpkin seeds and toss all together. Taste, adjust seasonings and serve.　

To reheat leftover rice: Place cold rice in a small pot with ¼-1/2 cup of water (depending on amount of rice). Bring to medium heat and let steam for 4-5 minutes, or until water has evaporated. Remove rice from the heat and mix with your dressing.

To receive your fill of healthy living tips become a JAMIE|LIVING Facebook Fan or follow her on Twitter! You can also find delicious recipes at:　www.jamieliving.blogspot.com

Jamie is an AADP certified Holistic Nutrition Counselor with a private and corporate practice that offers assistance nationwide. She is passionate about deliciously healthy food and specializes in helping her clients transform their lives through the power of nutrition and self-care.

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Go on Girl, Light Your Fire: The Fire Starter Sessions

Friday, April 23rd, 2010

Danielle LaPorte is all about keepin’ it real. She believes in telling it like it is, and is an avid believer in feminine power. Her latest project, “The Fire Starter Sessions” is an e-book for entreprenesses that comes with video and worksheets to help you get the most out of each sizzling session. The root of Danielle’s theory- which every woman can appreciate– is that our actions are driven by desired feelings. What other remarkable wisdom does she have to offer? We asked her a few questions to gain some insight on what really drives her and why her new book is so rockin’.

Once you let Danielle get you jazzed about your own inspiration, you lucky CRAVE ladies can pre-order a copy of the “Fire Starter Sessions” right now! Just click here.

You give people inspiring advice about following their passions in life, what sparked your own “ah-ha” moment?

It was more of a series of soul-sucking moments and gigs than an “a-ha” moment. But it all added up to creative sovereignty. My voice, my time, my way of being of service.

What makes the “Fire Starter Sessions” distinct from other programs for entrepreneurs?

It’s about rocking your revenue streams and doing meaningful things in the world. It’s as much about self-realization as it is about hard core strategy.
Each chapter is it’s own “Fire Starter Session” that includes: e-book components, video inspiration or interviews, and worksheets. Some of the sessions are: True Strengths & The Metrics of Ease; Branding: Clarifying the Diamond of You; Products & Services: Making Stuff That Feels Good to Make; Money: More is More, Enough is Plenty; Web Design & SEO: Your Virtual Real-Estate…Whether you’re in the early idea phase or a rut, it’s about lighting a fire under your…aspirations.

Summarize your teachings into a motto for how you/to live your life.

Your truth is worth it.

Would you give the same advice to a female business owner as you would give to a male?

Yes. But a woman is more likely to take it.

How would you describe your number one strength?

Deep listening. I also build a mean campfire and write bad poetry – which I consider an endearing strength.

Why do you believe it is that so many people do not choose their career path based on their true passions?

Profoundly wanting to belong. That will never change. On top of that deep driving psychology, we pile on social “norms” like dress codes and executive titles, salary structures, everything the goddamn Jonses are doing, and the popularity contest that is social media itself, and well, it’s the makings of an identity crisis.
If can you tune out the noise of “how-to” and “10 steps” and “proven tactics” you will be able to hear your own spidey senses: genuine, sincere, with great reflexes, and it will tell you that you are the expert on you — and you know what lights your fire.

What has been your most rewarding experience with a client?

One of my favorite results of working with any client is helping them decide what they’re going to STOP doing. It makes me giddy. It often goes like this: I’m going to STOP…being the administrator. Worrying so much. Under-selling myself. Checking Twitter obsessively. Feeling the pressure to be so successful. I’m going to stop using my cousin as my web-designer.

It’s freeing for everyone. And freedom is the best part of being an entrepreneur.

Still want more? Order your very own copy of the complete “Fire Starter Sessions” by clicking here. You can also learn more about all of Danielle’s endeavors on her website, whitehottruth.com.

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Make it an indie day

Friday, April 23rd, 2010
You say you want a revolution? Well so do the 100s of designers, artists, craftspeople, and organizers of Make It! Productions Handmade Revolution day. It’s two days of wall-to-wall booth browsing for the gal who won’t settle for the same old two-of-a-kind goods at departments stores.
Instead, you’ll be able to shop for one-of-a-kind handmade items from 100 of Canada’s hottest urban artisans and designers! Make It fuses indie shopping, a fully licensed bar and music spun by DJ Leanne to create a dynamic, upbeat experience! There will be something for everyone from fashion, accessories, art, jewelry, baby items and home decor. The First 25 Shoppers get a free goodie bag! (each day).
$5 at the door (kids under 12 are free!)

Make It! The Handmade Revolution
Croatian Cultural Centre: 3250 Commercial Drive
May 1 (11 am-7pm) & May 2 (11am-6pm)
www.makeitvancouver.com

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Step into spring, Vancouver!

Wednesday, April 21st, 2010

Now that the days are growing longer and the nights warmer, a girl can no longer get by with wearing her dark wool pants and long cardigan to the office and to happy hour. With the change in season comes the need for a change in wardrobe, and we are CRAVE-ing the bright colors and patterns dominating the glossies this spring. To help you make the transition from dark, heavy fabrics into easy, breezy ones, here are three of our favorite boutiques in Vancouver.

If we were to step into the closet of our favorite fashionista star, we imagine it would feel and look a lot like stepping into Boudoir Boutique‘s gorgeous store (102-1230 Hamilton Street). Boudoir’s mission is to “bring pretty back” and to that, we say “mission accomplished”. With just the right mix of femininity and daring style, the boutique has pieces that will still feel fresh long after spring’s last blooms have expired.

Set in the trendy Gastown District, Ishara (38 Water Street) carries dozens of designer brands to cater to the most sophisticated shopper. Whether it’s a dazzling dress for drinks and dancing or a sassy spring top to wear out and about, this boutique will have just the right piece. In fact, you’ll wonder how you spent your whole life without it.  We’re especially excited about the insanely fun-sounding Ishara in Wonderland event on Thursday, April 22nd where you’ll be able to sip and savor while you shop exclusive discounts – you’d be mad to miss it!

Nouvelle-Nouvelle (209 Abbott Street) is just the kind of boutique its name implies, with fashions for the modern-day gal and guy. This hip place, with its classic hardwood floors and minimalistic decor, offers a cool blend of big-name designers like Rowena Sartin and Samantha Pleet alongside harder-to-find Canadian designers, eco-conscious accessories, and totally unique jewelries. It won’t be difficult to leave Nouvelle-Nouvelle feeling all new-new.

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To Create or Not to Create?

Monday, April 19th, 2010

Have you ever been asked, “Are you a creative person?” I have and I always answer “no” because I can’t even print my name straight. To me, “creative” people are my friends in girl scouts that turned the colored pipe-cleaners into a ride at Disneyland, or my friend who paints scenery so amazing you want to jump into the picture.

The idea of “arts & crafts” give me hives; I have always viewed myself as creatively challenged (at least that’s what my second grade teacher called it when she saw the drawing of my house and asked if it was my dog). My Mom and sisters are amazingly gifted, my Mom can look at a lamp shade and think, “That would make an amazing centerpiece for the Cinco de Mayo party,” and it does. My little sister is an architect and shapes the Denver skyline with her genius. My oldest sister busted out four blank canvases recently and whipped up living room art that could be displayed at The Met. I can speak in public no problem, play through on a golf course full of men easy, but put a blank canvas in front of me and I am paralyzed with fear, let alone four.

However, I have learned that “creativity” takes many forms and all of us have some creative gift to offer the world. It’s not really a question to create, but rather a question of whether you will allow yourself to let your creativity flow through you into the world. I have always had a burning desire to make pottery; I would be so Demi Moore in Ghost, but I’m too afraid I wouldn’t even be able to make a cereal bowl. Fear is what stumps our creativity, there’s nothing scarier than putting your creativity out in the world and having a teacher say, “Is that your puppy?”

Creativity is a funny thing! I find myself most creative in the shower or the bathroom…what’s with that? Superman had a phone booth, I have the ladies lounge. At board meetings, I run to the bathroom and always come back with the break through solution to our challenge. My friends now know that when I come back from the restroom and say, “Guess what I was thinking”, they strap in for something amazing. When I have a problem to figure out, I take a shower. There’s something about that water flowing over my brain that interrupts the normal chatter and makes way for a creative breakthrough. I’ve gone through many laptops trying to write this column in the shower!

I have three books in the works, one for business, a funny one with my life stories, and of course a great fiction with a “hoochie” heroine who has a fling with the UPS man. I read a quote recently that I loved, it said, “Good girls want to have fun, bad girls make sure they do!” The leading lady in my novel is one of those bad chicks.

Spring is an amazing time of creation, look around, that dirt pile you’ve been passing along your drive now has a rainbow of colors bursting out of it. The birds are chiming in and adding their song to the season. My neighbor kids drew a cute picture on my car hood in the pollen dust. It’s time to wake up your creative juices and let them fly. Don’t miss a chance to show the world what’s growing under your dirt pile, take a nice long shower and come out and CREATE!

excerpt- Have you ever been asked, “Are you a creative person?” I have and I always answer “no” because I can’t even print my name straight. To me, “creative” people are my friends in girl scouts that turned the colored pipe-cleaners into a ride at Disneyland, or my friend who paints scenery so amazing you want to jump into the picture.

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Posted in Crack-Up | 1 Comment »

Fun Ways to Stay Active Outdoors

Monday, April 19th, 2010


We know that it can be more difficult to stay active and motivated during the dreary winter months, but the long winter days are now behind us and we can finally emerge off the couch from hibernation, watching Sex in the City reruns. Spring has arrived to grant us a long awaited reprieve from winter! The days are growing longer and the sun is more radiant in the sky. As dynamic and motivated women, we, here at CRAVE, enjoy exercising our minds as much as our bodies. Here are some activities for fun in the sun!

Kick a Ball
For those seeking a sport with a competitive edge, kickball is making its way out of the school playgrounds and into competitive leagues. It’s a great alternative to soccer and softball, while still encompassing softball’s similar rules of play. It’s a fun sport to casually play with your gal pals, or if you’re looking to get more involved with your community while having fun, join a league!

Other fun outdoor competitive group activities:
• Badminton
• Capture the Flag
• Ultimate Frisbee
• Beach Volleyball

Strike a Pose
If you’ve had a long day at work stuck sitting behind a desk, yoga is a great form of both mental and physical exercise and is shown to reduce stress! Whether you’re a novice or a budding yogi, yoga offers a wide range of poses for all levels of practice, from a beginner’s Adho Mukha Svanasana (“Downward-Facing Dog”) to an advanced Kapotasana (“King Pigeon Pose”). Now that the warm spring weather is upon us, try practicing yoga outdoors on your porch, at the park, or the beach. The combination of the warmth from the sun and fresh air is both serene and absolutely invigorating!

Paddle Around
Kayaking is a great water sport that really works out the upper body and gets you fabulously toned arms and shoulders! There are six different classifications of kayaking, ranging from the extreme whitewater gut-wrenching rapids (a thrill-seekers dream) to leisurely touring/general recreation. If you don’t feel like tackling on a kayak by yourself, many are built to hold up to three people. So gather some girlfriends and paddle around the lake while enjoying the beautiful nautical scenery.

Other fun outdoor water activities:
• Canoeing
• Paddle-boating
• Swimming

Hide & Seek
Do you CRAVE adventure? We do too! That’s where the sport of Geocaching comes in. Geocaching is a high-tech outdoor sport of treasuring hunting using a GPS device, clues and references to landmarks embedded in riddles or stories. The basic idea is to hide and seek hidden objects in containers (geocaches) and then share your experiences in the logbook and online. There are many variations of geocaches for all levels of adventure seekers. For those who really want a challenge, we hear there is a geocache hidden in Antartica. Happy hunting!

Sprint into Spring
Do you ever get bored with workouts at the gym and feel like a hamster in a wheel on the treadmill? We do! Spring is the start of running season, so lace up those sneakers and head outdoors for a jog. The great thing about running outdoors is you can change your route to keep things interesting. There are also tons of races during running season, ranging from a quick 5K to a full marathon, and many of these races support fundraising for charities. Did we mention that you also get cute t-shirts to show off to your friends?

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Portobello West Sunday the 25th

Saturday, April 17th, 2010

Find your style at Portobello West market, the last Sunday of the month. Meet over 110 local artists and designers and shop for one-of-a-kind fashion and art in one of Vancouver’s most impressive indoor venues. Created in 2006 and inspired by the famous artisan markets of Europe, Portobello West brings together Vancouver’s talented artists and designers in an eclectic and often surprising mix 10 months of the year.

Come down and meet the designers, hear their stories and take home truly original garments, inventive and inspired accessories, unique and sublime jewelry or works of art that speak to you and who you are.

See you April 25th, 2010.
Rocky Mountaineer Station (1755 Cottrell Street). $2 admission (Children 12 and under free), free parking.
portobellowest.com

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Interview with Shauna from Beauty Ink Gallery

Saturday, April 17th, 2010

Shauna Magrath of Beauty Ink Gallery is most proud of the ‘service’ component to her makeup and permanent cosmetic services. Whether she is training women in naturally beautiful makeup application, providing the perfect brow shape, or using her artful hands to enhance a bride’s wedding-day glow, Shauna falls somewhere between the fairy godmother of beauty, and the cool,  older sister you always wanted. Her boutique makes the perfect, post-winter destination in order to refreshen and brighten your look. Consider it the more affordable version of that Caribbean cruise!

Describe your company & What inspired you to create your own business?
We are a make up service boutique, specializing in permanent cosmetics and custom make up creations for Ladies and Gentlemen. We work with all demographics from cancer and accident survivors to men wanting to dress in drag or to giving a women a new look for the season. Our services range from custom lessons, make up applications, lash extensions, brow shaping and of course what we are best known for, our custom natural permanent cosmetics.

I was personally inspired to create this business after holding my grandfather as he passed to the other side. That moment has changed my life forever and made me look at what my contribution was to the world. I have a gift and working in film was not allowing me to share it in a positive way. Now I am able to help people who suffer every day and make their lived better. If I died tomorrow I know I have made a difference in many peoples lives.

What do you CRAVE?
Peace, love, simplicity, comfort and making more of a difference in the world, not to mention my 20 year old body again!

What is the best part of owning your own business?
The joy I receive every day when clients tell me how much of a difference I have made to their lives and how much they love our work.

What is your favorite quote?
Follow your heart and you will never go wrong, It’s not until you jump from the cliff will you grow wings and fly.

Tell us about your most popular service at Beauty Ink.
Our most popular services are permanent eyebrows and eyeliner plus lash extensions.

Posted in Enhance, Interviews | 1 Comment »

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