9 Items Every Woman Needs In Her Purse

Beauty and Hair Salon in Melbourne, FL

There’s a reason the “mini backpack” didn’t quite land when the 90’s revamp look was in this past year. I think we can all agree that some things shouldn’t come back. Aside from it’s quirky looks, it simply isn’t big enough. Purses are way bigger than they used to be, but yet never big enough. In fact, we don’t even call them purses anymore. We have satchels, totes, canvas bags and weekenders, to name a few.  When your coworkers make comments like, ” Are you spending the night?” You know you have a problem. I’m just as guilty as the next girl for having an overcrowded bag. There’s the usual suspects taking up space; cell phone charger, lip gloss, tissues. What you don’t need are handfuls of receipts, broken pens and half-opened pieces of gum. All items I just found in mine.

The days where women only needed room for a checkbook and lipstick are over. Today we are women on the go. We have careers, families, hobbies and always something to do. With all this on our plate we end up with overfilled purses full of everything we could possibly need and a lot of stuff we don’t. Clear out the junk and stay at ease. Stuff your bag with these handy necessities that are compact and convenient. Great for any busy girl on the go. Below is a list of the 9 items that every lady should keep in her purse. They will keep you happy, healthy and beautiful.

1.Hand Sanitizer

Flu Season is the worst it’s been in years. Germs are everywhere and we can’t always wash our hands. Keep an antibacterial hand sanitizer with you. Hand sanitizers won’t eliminate all germs but can quickly reduce the number of microbes you come in contact with. When a sink isn’t available, this is the next-best thing. Avoid ones with preservatives and genetically modified ingredients, look for an all-natural sanitizer. One of my favorites is EO Organic Sweet Orange. It’s organic and 99.99% effective against the germs around you. It also comes in a spray bottle for an easy, messy free application.

2. Image Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 30

This should already be a part of your daily routine. A great substitute for your foundation. This light weight formula with SPF 30 moisturizes, protects and gives you a healthy glow. I keep my large bottle at home but always carry a travel size one in my purse. It’s great for perking up your face in the middle of the day or making yourself a little more presentable at that happy hour. Available at the Essentials MediSpa and Salon Gift Shop or Imageskincare.com.

3. Face Cleansing Wipes

These are a necessity. Great for removing dirt, oil and makeup. They sell travel size packs that are the perfect size or throw a couple in a small Ziplock bag. They work well for washing your face when you can’t. If you have sensitive skin avoid the scented ones. My favorite is, Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Makeup Removing Towelettes.

4. Image lip serum

Whether you live near the beach or the arctic, climate can damage our lips. The cold and wind dry them out, while the sun’s rays can cause premature aging.  Image makes an amazing lip balancing enhancement complex, that instantly hydrates and improves the appearance of lip contours. It also diminishes fine lines and contains a anti-aging polypetide complex that supports collagen in the lips. It comes in a petite size that is perfect for slipping into your purse. Available at the Essentials MediSpa and Salon Gift Shop or Imageskincare.com.

5. Small Mirror/Brush Combo

Whether you are putting your hair down or keeping it up, it’s always a good idea to run a brush through it during the day. Brushing strengthens your hair and helps maintain it’s shine. Not to mention, keeps you from looking like a mess when you are running around after work. No one wants to be the mom picking up their kids from school with frizzy hair. Keep a foldable small brush and mirror tool in your bag. The brush is small and great for checking to make sure that every hair is in place.  The mirror is also a useful tool for making sure that none of your lunch is still in your teeth. This brush and mirror combo from Amazon is my favorite. It comes in a four pack in assorted cute colors. Share them with your friends.

6. Gum/Mints/Floss

This is self-explanatory. It’s always important to have fresh breath and a clean smile. Often hard to maintain when you’re out and about all day. A nice supply of mints and gum sure helps. Also keep a few flossers on hand in case of any pesky foods get stuck in your teeth.

7. Protein Bar

Hectic schedules can mean skipping meals. Avoid being hangry and keep a protein bar at hand. They are filling, packed with protein and usually covered in chocolate.? Not quite a meal but filling enough to stop your stomach from growling. It can also prevent you from overeating later.

8. Nail filer/clipper

Broken nails can not only look bad but hurt. They can be hard to ignore. Plus can snag on your favorite pair of tights. Throw a mini pair of nail clippers with a file in your bag and you’re prepared for any break or hangnail that comes your way.

9. Fold-Up Ballet flats

By the end of a long day, there’s nothing we would like to do more than kick off our heels. The thought of wearing them any longer can be painful. Get a pair of fold-up ballet flats. They are cute, compact and most importantly comfortable. They are dressy enough to wear at work if your feet start to hurt and perfect to wear around town after a long day.  They are designed to fold up neatly into a handbag have an elasticized heel for a flexible fit. You can find them in any color and at every price point. Even designer, Tory Burch has a line of them. 

 

Skip The Take-Out

Medical Weight Loss in Melbourne, FL

A crazy day of work and running errands can lead to a resentful trip to a drive-thru. Don’t do it!  I know it can be very tempting when we have a busy day, especially when the delightful smell of french fries comes wafting through our car window. We try to reason with ourselves that one stop is not a big deal. Sometimes we even feel like we deserve it after a hectic day, however one takeout meal can have enough calories, fat and sodium to undo a week of going to the gym and eating healthy. The average number of calories in a fast food meal is 836, according to an article in USA Today. Many believe this to be an underestimate. It would be nice if we could live off pizza and fries, but we can’t. Instead try to make these traditionally unhealthy fast foods at home. You can even prep them in advance to save time. Get your fix without the fat with these tasty fast food substitutes.

pizza and chicken fingers

Tuscan Pizza with a Zucchini Crust

Zucchini Crust

Toppings

  • 8 oz Fresh mozzarella
  • 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast grilled and chopped
  • Fresh basil
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh diced garlic
  • 2 tablespoons grated Romano cheese
  • 1 tablespoon diced roasted red peppers.
  1.  
  2.  
  3. Spread your tomato paste on crust and top with garlic. Then place fresh mozzarella, chicken and red peppers on top.
  4. When done top with Romano and fresh basil.

Chicken Fingers

  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon chilli powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 5 teaspoons canola oil
  • Ranch dressing seasoning packet
  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • Hot sauce ( optional)
  • Light ranch dressing ( optional)
  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Coat a large baking sheet with oil.
  2. Mix all-purpose flour with 1/4 teaspoon salt and garlic powder in a shallow dish.
  3. Beat eggs in a second shallow dish. Set next to the flour.
  4. Stir breadcrumbs, ranch packet and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt in a third shallow dish. Drizzle oil over the breadcrumb mixture and then mix thoroughly with a fork until all of the oil and spice coats the breadcrumbs.  Set to the side of the egg mixture.
  5. Dip a chicken tender in the flour mixture, turning to coat completely. Dip into the eggs, coating completely.  Press into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure it’s coated completely. Set on the prepared baking sheet. Continue with the remaining tenders.
  6. Put the baking sheet of breaded tenders into the oven and bake until the chicken is cooked through, around 25 minutes.
  7. Serve with hot sauce and light ranch (optional)

burger and fries

Balsamic Glazed Turkey Burger Sliders 

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey
  • 1/4 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/3 cup fresh parsley, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red onion diced
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 6 slices of whole grain bread, toasted
  • condiments (optional)
  1. Mix all the ingredients well with your hands (minus the bread).
  2. Heat a large skillet with some oil in it. Cook the burger for roughly 5 minutes on each side, or until it’s fully cooked.
  3. Cut bread slices in fours.
  4. Make a mini sandwich with two bread pieces and burgers
  5. Top with whatever condiments you like.

Makes 12 mini burgers

Honey Sweet Potato Fries

  • 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch long slices, then 1/4 -inch wide inch strips.
  • 2 tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons organic honey
  1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl toss sweet potatoes with olive oil. Bake until sweet potatoes are tender and golden brown, turning occasionally, about 20 minutes.
  3. Once out of the oven drizzle honey on them.
  4. Let cool 5 minutes then serve.

 

Welcome to Essentials MediSpa & Salon

Welcome to Essentials MediSpa & Salon! Our facility provides an array of medical spa treatments. Below is a list of some of our most commonly performed treatments:

About Dr. Lesser

Dr. Lesser is fellowship trained and board certified in four separate medical disciplines, including internal medicine, cardiology, advanced metabolic medicine and anti-aging, as well as bio-identical hormone replacement therapy. He has trained at both the nationally recognized Esthetic Skin Institute in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, as well as the internationally recognized Obagi Skin Health Institute in Beverly Hills California. There he personally trained under the tutelage of Dr. Zein Obagi, the father of Skin Health and the dermatologist behind both the Obagi and ZO lines of skin care products. Dr. Lesser was personally awarded recognition as an Obagi Skin Health Restoration Specialist. In addition, he is also a Candella certified laser operator with a specialized interest in vascular laser including spider vein and facial telangiectasia therapies.

Heavy Metal Poisoning

Health and Wellness Center in Melbourne, FL

The nation’s eyes were opened to heavy metal poisoning with the water crisis in Flint, MI in 2016.  Over 100,000 residents were exposed to lead contaminated drinking water from old pipes. The situation worsened as this prompted other cities drinking water to be examined and they found hundreds of other cities to have contaminated drinking water too. This created an unsettling feeling amongst many Americans. The possibility that heavy metal poisoning still exists in today’s advanced society became a reality.

Leadpoisoning is just one of several potential heavy metal toxins that can be found in our daily environment. Heavy metals such as nickel, aluminum, cadmium, mercury and the metalloid arsenic can also be present. They all have been documented to cause potentially serious health consequences. Heavy metal toxins aren’t just contained to old factories and construction sites. Exposure to heavy metals may occur not only through the environment; but our diet, medications, and jobs.

Essentials, Dr. Michael Lesser explains the severity of heavy metal poisoning and why it’s important to get tested. “Heavy metal toxicity can produce subtle abnormalities that can cause a variety of symptoms and signs from fatigue and headaches, to more serious abnormalities such as anemia, or organ system dysfunction. Those toxic metals can not only make you feel ill, they can contribute to an extensive list of diseases like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, and other neurological and brain disorders.” He also stresses that many people suffer from the adverse effects of low-levels and/or chronic exposure and don’t even know it.

This isn’t a routine test or part of your yearly physical.  This is a potentially hazardous problem that can be easily overlooked. However, at a below retail cost of only $139, your friends at Essentials now makes testing for these harmful toxins a reality. They offer an at home kit that includes a complimentary review and analysis by their medical director. If you do test positive, Essentials has developed and tested a series of intravenous treatments to remove these from your body.

Do yourself a favor and obtain one of these screening tests today. Call our professionals at 321-722-2860 to find out more information. Heavy metal poisoning is a scary health issue that affects thousands every year. With a quick, low-cost, at home test you will have peace of mind.

 

Start Your Day With A Parfait !

Decadent creamy layers topped with fresh fruit and a sweet crunch. No it’s not a sundae, it’s a healthy parfait. You aren’t just limited to granola and plain yogurt anymore. The world of parfaits has evolved. They can be made with all sorts of ingredients, even vegetables. It’ a tasty way to get your daily nutrients. They’re full of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Great for breakfast or a perfect dessert. They say we eat with our eyes first and you will not be disappointed with these. Bright colors and different textures make these treats look as good as they taste.

blackberry kiwi chia seed parfait

Medical Weight Loss in Melbourne, FL

A refreshing change from your traditional granola filled parfaits. Chia seeds are often considered a super-food because they are filled with Omega 3’s, vitamins and minerals. They are also gluten free. Mixed with antioxidant-packed blackberries. This parfait is as healthy as it is tasty.

chia pudding

  • 2-1/2 cups cashew milk
  • 1/3 cup chia seeds
  • 3 tablespoons real maple syrup

blackberry kiwi layer

  • cup fresh blackberries
  • 1 cup organic Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon of blackberry preserves
  • 2 kiwis peeled and cut into small pieces

– Gently stir all the ingredients of the blackberry kiwi layer together. Saving a few pieces to top your parfait. Make the chia pudding first. It will get refrigerated overnight. Add the cashew milk into a container, mix in the chia seeds and maple syrup. Shake well. Refrigerate overnight, stirring occasionally. Start layering your fillings, starting with your chia pudding. Top with kiwi pieces.

mango avocado and lime parfait

Medical Weight Loss in Melbourne, FL

Avocados are a super-food and for good reason. They are full of vitamins C, E, K, and B-6. They also taste great and have a rich, creamy texture. The perfect compliment to any parfait. Paired with vitamin C packed mangoes, this parfait is a sweet treat that will strengthen your immune system.

  • 1 cup organic Greek yogurt
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 tsp lime zest
  • 1 tablespoon raw organic honey
  • 1 mango chilled and diced
  • 1 chilled avocado, cut into small pieces
  • 1/4 cup organic unsweetened coconut flakes
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds
  • 1/4 cup granola

– Zest and juice your lime. Gently mix the zest and juice into your yogurt. Start your bottom layer with diced avocado, then place half your yogurt on top. On top of that add your mango pieces. Next, add the rest of your yogurt mixture. Top with granola, almonds and coconut. Drizzle with honey.

strawberry blueberry granola and almond parfait

Medical Weight Loss in Melbourne, FL

A classic. Fresh, sweet berries combined with fluffy yogurt and crunchy granola. The addition of almond extract and honey kicks this traditional parfait up a notch.

  • 1 1/2 cups organic Greek yogurt (vanilla)
  • 1 tablespoon of raw organic honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds
  • 1/2 cup organic granola
  • 1/4 cup blueberries
  • 1/4 cup chopped strawberries

– Mix together the yogurt, almond extract and fruit. Pour it in a glass. Top with almond and granola mixture. Drizzle honey on top. Finish it off with a few berries.

New Year, New You

Medical Spa in Melbourne, FL

2018 is upon us and with it comes the expectation of bettering ourselves. All day we see and hear advertisements reminding us of our New Year’s Resolutions or what they should be. Everything from quitting smoking to learning a new language but undoubtedly the number one resolution time and time again is to lose weight and be healthier. This is clear by the overwhelming amount of diets and gym membership commercials we see a hundred times a day. Whether it’s Marie Osmond trying to sell me Nutrisystem or Oprah with Weight Watchers, I’m over it.

However, losing weight and living a healthier lifestyle is more than just paying for overpriced gym trainers and eating chemical filled prepackaged food. It’s a mindset that only you can feel. You have to want to do it because you want to and you need to believe in yourself, it all begins there.  Then with the help of qualified professionals and a healthy, clean eating style, you will be on the fast track to weight loss. According to Forbes Magazine only 8% of people who set New Years Resolutions will stick with them. Let’s change that statistic. It all starts with a positive mind. Keep your goals realistic, safe and believe in yourself. Then let the highly qualified professionals at Essentials give you a hand. Their team can not only help with weight loss and nutrition but your overall well being. It’s important to stay healthy, stress free and keep your energy levels high during your weight loss journey. Essentials will give you the individualized attention and expertise you need to attain this goal, that you can’t get anywhere else.

what essentials has to offer

Weight Loss Coach and Nutritionist – When trying to lose weight its vital to have a support system. With Essentials you have a team by your side helping you achieve your weight-loss goal. Their MD and Nutritionist/Wellness Coach have combined information, meal options, recipes and even healthy snack options to guide you along your journey. Your coach is not just a meal planner. She will educate, guide and evaluate. Your own personal cheerleader who wants to see you succeed as much as you want to.

Medical Prescriptions – The trained medical professionals at Essentials have prescriptions that can help assist you with your weight loss journey. They offer appetite suppressants, which are Clinically proven to reduce weight, it also decreases your appetite and boosts your metabolism, making it easier to make healthier food choices and portion control. They also have Lipo B injections. Lipotropic injections contain nutrients that contain fat burning compounds, amino acids, vitamin b12 and other vitamins and minerals. It aids in boosting your metabolism, reducing appetite, increasing energy and helping your body to burn fat. They also have specialized IV Drips that help with weight loss. They are designed with a special blend of metabolism boosters, coupled with an appetite suppressant and trace elements to maximize your weight loss.

B12 INJECTIONS –  Essentials has B12 Shots. B12 is essential for improving mood, energy, and concentration. It’s also shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. It can help improve sleep and boost your immune system. Their trained medical professional team can administer these shots. T

Health and Wellness Treatment Options – Essentials offers an array of Health & Wellness programs developed for not only weight-loss, but stress-reduction, mental well-being and spiritual wellness. These packages can include nutrition plans, wellness coaching, stress reduction with massage and supplement recommendations. Others include these as well as Emotional Help, Hormone Balance Test Kit, B12 Shot, Skin Analysis & Treatment Recommendations.

Meditation Classes – Essentials also will be offering meditation classes guided by their Reiki Master, Renee Masse.  Your Intention is extremely powerful and is what will gain in strength the more you follow this practice. Intention allows for other goals and objectives to manifest in life. Meditation is also about awareness in the present moment. It is awareness of breath and sensations throughout the body without the measure of judgment.

Reiki and Chakra Balancing – Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is administered by “laying on hands” and is based on the idea that an unseen “life force energy” flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. It is also a simple, natural and safe method of spiritual healing and self-improvement that everyone can use.

Essentials has all the tools, help and support you need. Every resolution begins with you. Wanting to change and better yourself is the first and most important step. If you’ve already slipped up, that’s okay. If you haven’t started yet, that’s okay. There shouldn’t be a timetable for bettering yourself. It’s a new year, time for a new you.