Forever’s key to success is a commitment to quality and purity. The products start with 100% inner leaf gel, delicately adding just enough other ingredients to produce outstanding products.
Forever is so confident in the quality of its products that we offer a complete 60-day money-back guarantee.
The largest manufacturer of aloe vera in the world
Operating in over 150 countries
Avoiding the use of herbicides and pesticides
Guaranteed aloe quality
Over 9.5 million Forever Business Owners
A variety of awards
If you recognise the potential in the business opportunity or
just want to find out more information then please get in touch.
There is no obligation and we can arrange to discuss the opportunity further.
We shall simply provide you with the facts; it will then be up
to you to decide whether this is the right opportunity for you.
If you do join, you will receive all the training and support
necessary to help you create the future you want and to achieve your dreams.
I'd recently given birth to our second child, Molly, and was busy being mum at home to both her and our two-year-old son, Harry. During July that year, I'd made a huge decision to sell my business of three-and-a-half years. I'd been busy running a bridal boutique and absolutely loved what I did. However, once I'd had my little ones I was then having to pay full-time staff on top of all the other overheads, and there just wasn't enough left for me at the end of each month – yet I still had all the stress and responsibility.
As much as I loved being mum at home, I soon realised that I needed something more. Forever had been in my life for the previous eighteen years as my mum had built an amazing business during this time. Eleven years later, my sister also joined the business and has been a real inspiration. I've always seen how hard they have both worked to achieve a fabulous lifestyle and I really wanted to be part of that too. It still makes me giggle though, as my sister and I both swore we'd never join! I even banned any Forever conversation between them in my presence as it was all they seemed to talk about!
From making the decision that the time was right for me, my business flew pretty quickly. I had a sense of urgency as knew that I needed an extra £600 per month to replace my shop income. In three months I'd achieved this, had built an amazing team and made some wonderful friends. Six months later I made Manager position; I couldn't quite believe it! My income is more than I'd thought possible when I started and I've also achieved Earned Incentive thanks to an amazing and supportive team. It's amazing what happens when you set solid goals!
It's not always easy, and yes it is a balancing act, and sometimes you do need to give up a few other things in order to make the time to grow your business.
I have some fabulous people in my team who I know aren't far behind me, and helping them is just so inspiring. We all make sure we are at every event, whether it be a Success Express, the Global Rally, or the BPs and trainings. This has been so important in helping to keep everyone motivated and excited.
I’d like to say a huge thank you to my mum and my sister for not giving up on me and for being such fantastic role models. I see the wonderful lives they live, and being able to do the same for my family is my greatest achievement.
Kyra was working as a Deputy Director at a Women’s and Children’s Charity…
I had worked in this career to a high position after twenty years of investment and study when I was introduced to the opportunity. My job role took up fifty-to-sixty hours a week and by the time I got home to my beautiful daughters and husband I was exhausted.
I was passionate about the work I did and wasn’t looking for another option, but I knew my life wasn’t in balance and the mounting debts we had indicated that the job wasn’t financially or emotionally meeting our family’s needs.
With great trepidation I took a look at the business and saw a way of earning an additional £300 that could ease the pressure. I took a chance and got started in August 2015.
What happened next still feels surreal; I was able to get the financial return on my investment of starting the business within ten days and by the end of the month I could see the profit in my purse.
As a family we began to breathe. Working in the pockets of time around my demanding job I was able to build my business from home and within six months matched my corporate income. Ten months later I had cleared any debt we had. I was in a position to leave my job, be a mum at home and have an income where we didn’t have to reduce our family requirements.
Almost four years on, I am still a mum working from home. I am there for my children every day, I never miss an Irish dance competition, a school event, or have to leave them when they are unwell.
I have the privilege to work in the leadership team in Ireland, but my business now spans the globe. World travel is part of my year as Forever provides incredible opportunities to those who work hard in their businesses. My family and I were gifted with a Mediterranean cruise, my husband joined me on a trip to America and I have travelled to the Middle East, Europe and the USA numerous times as a thank you from the company.
The positivity and the integrity of this business is refreshing. I have made lifelong friends and supported others to bring another income stream into their homes. It offers you an opportunity to create a life that you deserve. I am thankful every day for the TIME it has given me for my family. I am Forever Proud.
Claire started her business in January 2014 whilst on maternity leave from a career in education…
I had been searching for a way for me to be a full-time mum but not have to compromise on lifestyle. I suppose when I look back, I also knew I craved success, financial independence and that I wanted to set a great example for my children.
Very quickly I had developed an income that gave me the confidence in myself and belief in the company that I could develop a serious career with Forever and I made the decision not to return to work at the end of my maternity leave in June 2014. In fact, six months in and I was earning more than my full-time monthly wage, working part time around my daughter.
This wasn’t without a very sceptical start. Network marketing was new to me and seeing for myself that I could, in fact, develop a serious career, as well as feeling fulfilled as a mum, made me feel both excited and sceptical. I could see others developing successful businesses so I developed the attitude that if they can, maybe with some work on myself then I could too!
I came with a huge desire to change my life and a great work ethic. This saw me quickly progress through the marketing plan and go on to qualify for the car, travel and chairman’s bonus programmes. My income allowed us to get a mortgage on a house we wouldn’t have been able to previously, which was a huge goal for us and our growing family.
I now continue to develop my business as a full-time mum to three young daughters; Bella, 5, Sadie, 3 and Minnie 1. We have enjoyed not only a dramatic change in lifestyle that the income from my business has given us but also the time it has given us as a family.
I feel free, that’s the best way to describe it. I won’t miss a thing with my children because I’m in charge of my diary. I’m not aware of another opportunity that would enable us the same work life balance, lifestyle and financial security we have currently.
Forever is a way of living for us, not just a job that I pick up for an hour or two at a time and because of this I’m able to show the girls that by working hard and smart, anything is possible if you’re bold enough to chase after your dreams. I use the nooks and crannies of the day to work my business, and the beauty of it for me is that many of the business-building activities are incorporated into life as a busy mum, perfect!
Our girls are growing up in a positive environment, with people with great attitudes, and around other children that we meet on the trips away with Forever. The travel incentives have been really special to us. I’ve used them as a way to enable the girls to see parts of the world that we wouldn’t have been able to prior to me starting my business. I feel privileged that the company has invested in me, as the training and the people we have met as part of those trips have been incredible.
I’m driven by being able to show others that you can absolutely have both! You can have the time with your children whilst they’re young without having to sacrifice income, career satisfaction and personal development.
My passion is to help others to see the potential in the marketing plan and help them to learn the skills necessary to make the changes they’re looking to make to their lives. I’m a very proud Network Marketing Professional and am really excited about the future not only for our family but for the people we work alongside and the industry as a whole.
Millicent joined Forever in August 2003 and was very enthusiastic about the dream of becoming successful and financially free, but she didn’t know that Forever had more in store for her...
I was a law administrator with four children, so travelling was restricted but I wanted to see the world. Then, in February 2004, Forever gave me the opportunity to go for a month’s holiday in Kenya, and this is where my travelling dream began to become reality. The opportunities opened when I started sharing Forever with all my friends and relatives, and I could see that the business offered exponential growth. I qualified for the Manager position but my husband Jasper, who was an accountant, was still sceptical. The marketing plan was too good to be true, but he was willing to learn and got to work.
Back in the UK I had also qualified for an incentive that took me to Athens, Greece. Whilst there, we requested the help of Rex Maughan, Forever’s founder and CEO, to see if we could get Forever into East Africa. On a mountain with the breath-taking view of the Acropolis, Jasper and I had the chance to talk to Rex about the East African distributorship, and we were amazed when he gave us the go ahead.
Jasper had clearly caught the vision as well and we left the UK for Kenya in 2005. Whilst there, we worked with a team of other Forever Business Owners and Kenya had its grand office opening in Nairobi in August 2005. This later expanded to both Uganda and Rwanda which contributed to the success of Forever East Africa.
Our hard work had paid off and in 2006 we qualified for an exclusive training event in Stockholm, and by the end of that same year we had qualified for the 2008 World Rally Tour! Our travelling adventures didn’t stop there, and to date Forever has also awarded us with gifts of travel to Phoenix Arizona, Las Vegas, Cottonwood Cove on Lake Mohave in Nevada, Colorado, Texas, the Grand Canyon, Dallas, South Africa, Zanzibar, South Sudan, Washington DC, Bahamas, Hawaii, Singapore and many other Forever resorts.
I’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity of Forever as a company and in recent years we have even received bonus cheques of over £174,000! It’s a great comfort to know that we are not alone – we are supported by a great team of achievers – and we truly believe in the business opportunity and how it’s changing lives.
When I first joined Forever, I thought I would be able to operate it through a beauty blog I had and almost be ‘faceless’ to it. The first few weeks I read and watched as many of the trainings as I could. This quickly gave me a realisation that I wouldn’t have a successful business being faceless. By the end of that first month I majorly stepped out of my comfort zone to become the face of my business.
As a manager within an HR department I was a little fearful over how people might react to my new business. I was SO relieved to actually experience positivity and excitement - so many work friends came to my launch! I hadn’t needed to be scared at all. The negative comments I did get made no impact as I was just so engrossed in getting into a rhythm with business, that I had no time to care about negativity.
After a series of launches and a huge burst of energy, I hit the supervisor position and truly felt like I was capable of reaching further promotions. I remember a training event focusing us on Eagle Manager and seeing the reward was a 5* trip to Cancun at the Moon Palace, I was determined to achieve it. Working towards that was fast, tough, exciting and rewarding. I will never forget that Christmas Eve when I hit the incentive. The best Christmas present ever.
Behind the fast pace of my business at the beginning was a vision to create space in my life to have children. I knew that I would need IVF but what I didn’t want was to have to talk to anyone about it, least of all my boss. I didn’t want to be putting in time off requests and I wanted to limit the impact stress would have on me. On my one-year anniversary with Forever I left my job and hit the Senior Manager position.
Success kept coming, I felt unstoppable at one point and was so happy to be coaching and leading teams of amazing women and men who wanted to achieve for themselves. I haven’t been a perfect leader, I have been a learning leader, learning from my mistakes, growing and adapting and also letting go when I have needed to.
By the time I had my daughter Ivy, I was a two-time Global Rally qualifier, a two-time Chairman’s Bonus achiever and two-time Eagle Manager. I was insanely proud of that, but most of all I was proud of my team for being self-starters, self-motivated and determined to enable me to be fulfilled as a new mother. I was able take time off and, on my return, dramatically reduce my working hours with my team. This did mean a drop in income, like anyone reducing their hours would expect. At first this was uncomfortable until I reached a new level of stability in my business.
My desire to achieve goals didn’t disappear and when I realised my volume was close to achieving Global Rally, I increased my working hours so that I didn’t miss out. I also kept focus on my New Zealand team to see them make history as the first Manager business over there. I feel so grateful for my experiences and I know that my connection with Forever will be lifelong. This is the only business I know of where you adapt your work around your needs, ramping up and quieting down when you need it. What I have massively appreciated in the last two years is the global scope of my business and what it has taught me in terms of being more efficient and focused. The way I run my overseas business is different to how I have run my UK one, and I am excited about the change in my UK business to align these. It’s going to take time, but I am in no rush!
Network marketing was not a new concept to Annie as her parents had started their network marketing business alongside another company when she was six years old…
A few years in, my parents were both able to leave their jobs and work their business really flexibly from home around myself and my two sisters. This gave us an amazing upbringing with unlimited time and lots of memories as a family, so I have a lot to thank the industry for!
It never crossed my mind that it could be something that I could do also, as my experience of network marketing stopped at their company and that just wasn’t for me.
After studying fashion design at university, I landed what I thought was my dream job as a designer in London. At first this was a whirlwind of excitement, however, as the time went on, I started to feel less and less enthusiastic. I didn’t feel fulfilled, I worked really long hours, had a long commute, and I hated that I was constantly wishing time away until home time or the weekend. From this job I realised a few things - I didn’t want to have a boss, I didn’t want someone to be in control of my time, and I wanted the freedom to not be tied down to one place.
It was finally a phone call with my mum and me voicing this when she said, ‘Annie, why don’t you take a proper look into network marketing and find a company that’s right for you that you can get really passionate about…’ So that night I did some real research and it finally clicked! I realised that network marketing was exactly the answer. I researched companies and when I found Forever I knew it was right for me. I searched on the Forever events Facebook page for an upline and got started the next day in October 2016.
When I started, although I had full belief in the industry and the company, my belief in myself took a while to build. However, the incredible training and support I received helped me grow and develop. I attended every event, read every book I was recommended, and my business started to grow. Early in 2018, I hit the position of Manager giving me so many more choices. I was able to leave my full-time job and also move to and explore a new city altogether!
It’s creating that time freedom I’ve witnessed first-hand that drives me. Building my business has been an absolute rollercoaster ride and really hard work, but I wouldn’t change any of it! I’m completely obsessed with what I do now, I have met the most incredible people, love working with my team, and I am so excited for my future with Forever.
JAYNE’S JOURNEY WITH FOREVER
Diamond Managers and Executive Global Leadership Team founder members Jayne Leach and John Curtis, started their Forever business over twenty years ago in the summer of ’93. They have since achieved consistent and phenomenal success over the past two decades, including receiving the top UK Chairman’s Bonus cheque this year. They’ve witnessed incredible change and growth in Forever, both globally and here in the UK.
Forever Business Owners today can thank Jayne, John and their leaders for sustained major input into some of the core literature and training materials used globally, and the couple continue to inspire and motivate generations of FBOs across the world. In this intimate interview, Forever’s Editor Kate Hodge asks Jayne to reflect on her Forever journey and to share her accumulated wisdom with other FBOs who aspire to build life-changing Forever businesses.
KH: What was life like for you when you began your business?
JL: I was a single mum, and whilst I had loved and was good at working in farming, after eighteen years of hard work, working with livestock and show-jumping horses, I still didn’t make any real money. Finances were a ‘challenge’ and we were literally surviving from day-to-day. Then I met John, also a single parent experiencing doubtful financial prospects. Together we realised that we couldn’t carry on doing work that didn’t give us what our now combined family needed. Friends in America advised us to find a really good network marketing company, and that if we did, and worked hard, we could build a strong long-term business and income of our dreams. I clearly remember not understanding what they meant by network marketing, but we did as suggested and looked at companies in the UK. Having given it much thought and discussion, we decided to look for a company that had consumable, benefit driven products; a marketing or compensation plan that would outlive us to leave a legacy income to our four children; preferably a private company with proven management, and international possibilities; but almost above all else, to be associated with an honest opportunity we could be proud of. A lot to ask? Of course, but remember, we were looking to get it right first time.
So, we looked at every single network marketing company we could find in the UK, but didn’t particularly like any of them. After attending their meetings, we couldn’t relate to either the distributors, their products, the management, or their ‘style’, so we almost gave up the search. This changed with a phone call from a friend, telling us about a company called Forever Living. Intrigued, we got together and he showed us everything he had on the company, literally a few pieces of paper, a few pictures, and a couple of products. Cautiously excited, we didn’t want that excitement to cloud our judgement, so ‘due diligence’ led to meeting with the then UK Country Manager Dusty Green. Very open and direct, he answered all our questions, so we registered, got some products, and got started – that was the beginning of our long-term ‘love affair’ with Forever.
KH: Why were you determined to succeed?
JL: We didn’t join just to ‘give it a go’; we joined to be successful. We felt that network marketing was the way of the future, and possibly the only way open for us to build a big life and achieve big goals and dreams whilst helping other people. We were ready to be successful; mentally we wanted success. It was never, ‘we’ll see if this works’, even in the early days when there was nothing in place in the UK – no meetings, trainings, Success Express events, Advisory Board, Head Office of substance, literature, manuals, brochures, internet – there was nothing. But we were committed to Forever’s founder Rex Maughan’s vision, philosophy and mission statement, and reassured that although it was brand new to the UK, it already had a sixteen-year track record and the company was enjoying success in the USA, Japan and a host of other countries. If it was working out there, it could work in the UK as well!
However, in the early days of our business, network marketing did not have a great name. It was almost seen as the thing you did when you had exhausted all other options, but because this company was built on values, integrity and ethics, John and I had decided that we were going to help make it the best network marketing company in the UK. We knew that if we worked with quality people, we could make it the best, so that became our vision and mantra.
We also listened to Dusty: he always advised us to do the right thing, go the extra mile, and remember that when you help someone else, you create a ripple effect. He also talked often about the need to remain modest in the face of increasing success, and to accept responsibility for being role models that others want to follow.
KH: What was Forever like in the beginning?
JL: When we first started, John and I sat down and had a planning meeting, deciding that if we were going to build a business, we had to implement a system. So, we got a Forever flipchart and drew out a very basic Business Presentation (BP) – this has since been developed by the leaders into the BP that everybody enjoys today. We started having BP meetings in our home every Wednesday night and Saturday morning so we started inviting people along. Most didn’t come, but the common reaction amongst those that did was that we were somehow crazy; they would tell us not to waste their or our time, to get a ‘proper job’, or worse, but we just knew that it would work, so we kept on asking.
Alongside asking people to look at the business, we also began to use these times as opportunities to sell products. We had no success stories to share, and almost nobody had even heard of aloe, so we simply shared our personal experiences. However, in the first two weeks, we developed a retail base of over 8CC. The first six months of our business continued in much the same way: John, our box of products, a Forever flipchart, and me! We then started training on Saturday mornings after the BP, and the First Steps to Manager Planning Manual that you use today began to develop from one we made twenty-three years ago!
We achieved Manager in fourteen weeks, but every single night I was either doing a launch, one-to-one, or BP. At that time, Head Office was based in a tiny office in Selly Oak, Birmingham. We drove there to get products, and the paperwork for orders had carbon copies. The only way we could work out our case credits was to gather the carbon copies from the orders, add them together manually, and constantly check them at the all-important month end. But it was such fun – we would all get together and often stay up really late counting and checking case credits on those pink slips. There was a lot of team spirit and I loved that we all came together – there was a real closeness.
KH: What are some of your fondest memories?
JL: I remember qualifying for our first Rally. Dusty spoke so fondly of the American Rallies and even though we had only been in the business for nine months, I was already a bit obsessed with wanting to go there – I had never travelled further than Europe at the time.
One day we received a phone call from Dusty, but he sounded quite stern. He said, “Jayne, I need to come and see you immediately.” When I asked why, he replied, “I’m not prepared to discuss it over the phone, but it’s very important.”
I honestly thought I had done something wrong so cancelled the following day’s appointments. The next day, after dropping the kids off at their schools, we went to the office and turned the phones off in anticipation of some unforeseen ‘bomb shell’. Dusty duly arrived on time, but still with a somber demeanor. I’d lain awake worrying all night and couldn’t cope any longer, and half expecting termination for something, I asked him to be straight and tell me what the problem was. He looked at me for a few seconds, but then he couldn’t contain himself any longer and burst out laughing. He opened his briefcase and pulled out two tickets for America before running around the room whooping.
That was to be our first ever trip to the States, and I will never, ever, forget it. We actually had no idea that we had qualified – keeping on top of case credits when it was all done on paper was quite difficult, and unbeknown to us, we had achieved 1,500CCs. The Rally was in San Francisco and we came back as changed people. Meeting Rex and the Vice Presidents, and seeing the enormity of the company; the values, the ethics, the vision, the people, it was all ‘mind-blowing’. Back then, Forever had an American Rally as well as a World Rally, but the only people open to qualification for World Rally were the country’s top distributor and the Country Manager – fast forward to 1995 and we achieved just that and another long-term ambition, to go to Peru and Machu Pichu.
Another outstanding and fond memory of the early days involves Rex. He was due to come to the UK and there was an incentive whereby you could have aloe ‘mocktails’ with him. It was a recruitment incentive, and if you won, you also got a television and VIP access to this exclusive ‘mocktail’ event. I knew I wanted to be at that party. The week before, a Head Office meeting declared the qualifiers and winners, and when Dusty called out the qualifiers, then third and second places, I was becoming despondent at the thought that we hadn’t managed it. But when he called out our names for first place, my jaw dropped open and I thought two things: firstly, that the kids were going to love the new TV, but more importantly, that we were going to meet Rex.
Yet another striking memory was when Dusty phoned to tell us that Rex was coming to the UK with Rjay Lloyd (a long -term friend of Rex and the Executive Senior Vice President), together with Dusty’s dad, Harold. Rex was touring the UK and wanted to come to our (tiny) office, and he wanted us to hold a Business Presentation. When I heard this, I said, “Dusty, our office is minuscule, and so is our training room, what am I going to do?” He just said that we’d work something out, so we did – I remember going to the local junior school and borrowing small children’s chairs so that we could get more seating in the room, and on the night, we filled sixty chairs with overspill guests in the hallway and down the stairs. Rex spoke and signed a book for me, which I still have, and the whole thing was just incredible.
KH: Why did you decide to go global with your business?
JL: Travel is a major passion for both of us, and we felt that it would be brilliant to go to countries where Forever had, or was planning, a presence. For us, it made sense to go there, do some work, and then enjoy different cultures and experiences. It was also obvious to me that building a multiple income stream with a global-based business meant taking advantage of everything Forever offers.
Our first ever global business foray was Italy: one of my dearest and best friends, Maria-Louisa Di-Pinto, asked if she could build a business even though Forever was not yet in Italy. Dusty advised us to consider whether we could personally send the products to Italy, but he backed our decision and told us to go for it. So, every month, we arranged for a freight company to collect a shipment for delivery to Maria-Louisa in Milan; she then distributed the products to her customers. After six months, we learnt that someone based in Spain was doing much the same thing, and eventually, between us, there was enough business being conducted for the company to officially open in Italy. We were already in pre-launch overdrive, and literally every five or six weeks, John, me, or both of us would be over there, without mobile phones, but in a car driving to do endless one-to-ones! When the company finally had their great big grand opening, we had about 200 people in attendance and business in Italy boomed! From that modest success, we focused on Africa and went into Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, East Africa and many other English-speaking areas. We also started an African BP every week in London, with average attendance of around 400 people!
However, at the time, although we had a global business, it wasn’t global as it is today. Case credits didn’t count towards Chairman’s Bonus or anything else other than local income, but we didn’t do it for any of this, we just wanted to build a legacy in other countries.
In those days, if you wanted to work with somebody, you got in your car and drove – we regularly did 60,000 miles per year between us, literally driving all over the country to work with teams. These days we can do webinars, Skype calls, deliver online training, group meetings, and Business Presentations – this change has been fundamental in allowing people to build a global business. Now you can do a lot of ‘groundwork’ before even stepping on a plane, but, as good as it is, technology can never replace a good old-fashioned ‘heart-to-heart’. When you get together with people who share your passion, when you feel the emotion in the room, that’s when things change.
KH: What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learnt as an FBO?
JL: If John or I could ‘turn back the clock’, we would not have spent so much time with ‘time-wasters’ – people who talk the talk but do very little, who have great intentions but never make a call, who hardly ever show up at BP, training or Success Express event. They give you every excuse in the book as to why they can’t do something, but still insist that they are going to be successful. When you spend time with people like this and they don’t perform, all it does is bring you down, rob someone else deserving of your time, and make you question their lack of success as down to you, but it’s not, it’s down to them.
To be successful, you must do more than you think you have got to do, and you must be absolutely 100% consistent every single day, even when you’re not getting results. Always be the student, and always stay humble. Even today, I still learn off others – I want to constantly bring my best game to the table, but I can’t do that if I stop being the student.
KH: You are a founder and trustee for the DABW Foundation charity – how did that begin?
JL: My mum and dad (Dorothy and Bill Wood) joined the business shortly after us, and within a few years had climbed to second position in the UK. By this time, the UK was doing over 10,000CC and this meant the top two Forever Business Owners were to be invited to World Rally – my mum’s goal and dream was for us to attend together, but then she got sick – a little mark on her leg turned out to be aggressive skin cancer.
She was admitted to hospital on a day when the usual nurse was on leave, so a different one turned up. Nurse Otilia was from Malawi, from a little village called Kanyenda which was in the middle of nowhere with no main roads nearby. Otilia told mum that her family was still in the village, but she had come to the UK to make money to send home. The biggest challenge there was a lack of clean water, with the local small river serving as the only source of washing and drinking water for the animals and villagers. When mum heard about the number of children dying from cholera, and that the village had been saving for twelve years to try and raise the £2,500 needed to install a borehole pump, she decided to raise the money from her hospital bed. Sadly, mum died before it was commissioned, but just before she passed away, she asked me to carry on the work in the village. John and I flew out to Malawi and officially opened the well – that’s when we realised that there was a lot more work to do – kids were going hungry and the school was falling down, so our next project was to rebuild the school and kindergarten, and to put in place a feeding programme.
The villagers’ staple diet is maize, but with no means to grind it, the maize had to be carried by village women and children who would walk ten kilometres to the nearest corn mill, have the corn ground, and then they’d walk back. It was just too much, particularly with little kids, so once the school project was complete, we built a corn mill. But there was still one thing missing…
When John and I go to Malawi, we live amongst the villagers in a mud hut and local children always want to come and sit with us. We were sitting outside in the dust one evening, surrounded by over twenty kids, when I noticed one little boy, aged about two, sitting in the corner all by himself. He had a runny nose and looked so unhappy. It turned out he had malaria, but two days later when I asked after him, I was shocked to learn that he had passed away. I felt so angry at the thought that a little boy could die for the sake of a £2 injection, so I decided, there and then, that our next project was to build a medical centre.
The medical centre now treats about 100 kids daily, with families walking many miles to come to it. We have an inoculation programme, two doctors, a pharmacist, a receptionist and a nurse.
"I get excited about the thought of helping someone achieve their potential, and I am excited about seeing where Forever is going and who the next generation of Forever leaders will turn out to be."
I wanted to create something of beauty, because life is really harsh in Malawi, often just day-to-day grind. We built the centre with a terrace and veranda, with a garden fronting filled with roses and plants – roses because of my mum’s love for them, and plants and other pretty things because when a woman has walked for miles carrying a sick child, sometimes she just needs to sit and breathe.
That whole village is now self-sufficient and supported, with kids rarely dying of cholera or malaria, and instead receiving a good basic education. We’ve also taught the villagers how to grow their own micro-vegetables and they’ve started to grow things like tomatoes, onions, cabbages and green beans. We donate the seeds and have shown them how to grow their own gardens. Some of the money raised for the charity now goes towards maintaining these projects and ensuring they remain at a certain standard.
KH: You’re an inspiration to many for various reasons, and one thing I love is your generous spirit. Why do you think it’s important to give back?
JL: Right from when I was a kid, I was brought up to understand that you can never truly receive until you have learnt to give, but I was also taught to get as much happiness out of giving, as from receiving. Forever gave us the opportunity to build phenomenal personal lives, and it would be wrong not to share that with others.
You also never know what impact kind acts may have on someone else. When we were first starting out, a casual friend of ours owned a shop with a room above it, and he said we could use this as our office and training space. He knew we had no money so he let us have that building at minimal rent for one year. Someone’s kindness is sometimes what gives you a leg up in life, and I don’t know how we would have got started in our business without his kindness – I’ll never forget him. I also strongly believe that you should always come from a place of contribution – that’s who Rex and the Maughan family are in their actions, and that’s how I’ve been brought up.
KH: What makes you excited about the business all these years later?
JL: I am just as excited today about recruiting a phenomenal young couple or individual who wants to change their life, as I was the day I started. I get excited about the thought of helping someone achieve their potential, and I am excited about seeing where Forever is going and who the next generation of Forever leaders will turn out to be. It’s quite inspiring and motivating to be in that environment, although nowadays I try to be more prudent with my time as I also still like travelling and being with my family.
When you join Forever, and you develop a Forever mentality, you’ll find that there will be many people who try to tear you down, but I promise you that Forever will never let you down. You can build a legacy for your family like no other, so don’t listen to the opinions of other people, just do what you’ve got to do. Put a plan in place, and continue to work at it until you have achieved the goal that is important to you. Make sure you have a well-rounded approach to marketing and don’t just sit behind a computer. Build relationships, nurture others and be the kind of leader that others want to follow. Understand that you will have tough days, but it is what you learn in those moments that shape you into the person you will become, and that is the person who has the power to define your future.
"I get excited about the thought of helping someone achieve their potential, and I am excited about seeing where Forever is going and who the next generation of Forever leaders will turn out to be."
Don't miss Jayne's exciting new training at June's Success Express event. 17th-18th June at Genting Arena, Birmingham. Book your tickets today at foreveruktickets.co.uk.
FOREVER BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER
Samantha and John have been Forever Business Owners for over ten years and they have had the privilege of watching the company grow along with their own business over this time. For them the business has always fit in the nooks and crannies of their life and they are looking forward to seeing how it unfolds over the coming years…
My older sister and I grew up in a loving home, but in my eyes, my sister has always been the ‘successful one’. She was a talented athlete and swam on the GB Swim Team from a young age! The feelings of inferiority I developed affected the way I saw myself as an adult, and as I started to build my Forever business I was faced with the challenge of overcoming that belief I had of not being good enough. We started Forever in September 2006 so last year we celebrated our tenth year of working with Forever. Over the years I’ve realised how important it is to work on self-development, and through the people and training Forever’s offered, I’m finally beginning to realise my worth! During our first year as FBOs, we immersed ourselves in the company. I literally worked the business in the pockets of time around my full-time job, and then again around my babies. We achieved Manager in 2010 and although we don't have a huge business with a life-changing income, we do have an income that allows me to be a stay-at-home mum to Henry, five, and Jasmine, four.
Our first exposure to Rex Maughan was at the Stockholm European Rally and Profit Share event in 2007. After this we committed to attend these events every year and we have since travelled all over Europe. When the events went global, my very best friend Toni Hall asked me to join her as her Global Rally guest and I accompanied her to Johannesburg. It was a complete privilege and an awesome event, and I’m so thankful and amazed at how Forever brings people together.
When the children start going to school full-time I intend to use my spare time to focus more on my Forever business, but having the opportunity to increase my income whenever I choose is truly humbling. The ability to make a difference in people’s lives every day is also a fantastic feeling and I thank Rex for this amazing opportunity.
"I’ve realised how important it is to work on self-development, and through the people and training Forever’s offered, I’m finally beginning to realise my worth!"
FOR MY DAUGHTER
My mum is a huge inspiration to me and has been a single mum since I was two years old. She had to work three-to-four jobs just to get by, but somehow, with the help of my grandparents, she still managed to send me to a private secondary school.
Private education helped me massively since I have bad dyslexia, but despite the decent education, I knew I didn’t want to go to university. Mum suggested I become a beauty therapist so I did, and I loved it! I got my dream job in January 2008 at Gleneagles and I completed everything that job had to offer. Then I had Ava.
When Ava started school in August 2016, I wasn't sure what to do. Childcare was too expensive and her dad and I are not together, so I decided to set up my own business as I figured I could work it around Ava. I called it JAJ Beauty and mum helped by investing her retirement money into setting it up. Sadly, there were beauticians out there I couldn't compete with and it wasn’t long before JAJ Beauty failed.
One day, Anna Mair, a good friend of mine from beauty school, invited me over for our usual monthly sleepover, but this time the evening had a slightly different set up. Anna shared the Forever Business Presentation, and although I thought it was a scam, I kept thinking about the opportunity. The next day I was scrolling through Facebook when I came across Kat Crawford. She did the Forever thing Anna was talking about so I decided to invite her round and ask her questions. I wasn’t as close to Kat as I was Anna so I knew there would be no hard feelings if I decided it was a load of rubbish. I signed up two days later with Kat, that was in March 2015.
A few days later I was introduced to Kat’s team and I set myself the goal of earning £2,000 a month. This was how much my mum earned and she managed to give me a fabulous life – I wanted to do the same for my daughter! Shortly after this I came across Emma Cooper and I found her incredibly inspiring. I watched her carefully and took on everything she said to do, I listened to all the trainings and I went to my first Success Express event in June 2015. I worked hard, making my way through the Marketing Plan and incentives, and by the October I had climbed my way to Senior Manager.
I have had a huge amount of fun over the years and I’ve built some amazing memories. Thanks to Forever I now work flexibly for my daughter, and I’m able to give her the life she deserves.
"I worked hard, making my way through the Marketing Plan and incentives, and by the October I had climbed my way to Senior Manager."
DECIDE TO DREAM BIG
Esther’s journey began in July 2016 but she had no idea it would take her to where she is today...
I had been using Forever products for a couple of years but I used to just find them online as I was unaware of the business opportunity and that I should buy through an FBO. When I learned about the business I joined so that I could benefit from the generous discount. I still wasn’t interested in retailing and I told myself that I was busy enough with my full-time job and social life. At the time, I thought I had far too much on, but within the first few weeks I started to see that Forever had a lot more to offer. Talking about the products I loved and used already every day was actually quite easy and a natural part of day-to-day life, so I decided to give it a real go by finding the time to put a little more effort in.
In the first month of joining I was close to hitting my personal target. I set up my Facebook page, created a new name for my business and had some business cards made. Talking about aloe vera became second nature and before I knew it, I had fifteen customers who wanted Forever Aloe vera Gel, and friends and family who were keen to try other products! I promptly set up my own website and joined online support groups and subscriptions including FLP.Social and FLP360°, and in the months that followed I hit Supervisor, I was awarded ‘retailer of the week’ by Victoria Warren, and I achieved the number four spot in the top twenty pro-networkers!
I’ve always felt there was something bigger out there for me, I just never knew what it was until I found Forever, and now I can’t imagine not being a part of the Forever family. The opportunity has opened the door to a new career and I feel as if I’ve found my niche. I’m enjoying meeting new people and I’ve never felt so inspired and driven to succeed in life as I do now. Every time I think about Forever, I think of when Richard Branson said, “If someone offers you an opportunity and you’re not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later.” I guess that’s what I did, and what I’m doing! I regularly attend the Business Presentation and my knowledge is growing everyday with all the events, training and help received from my mentors. I’m very excited for what the future holds and I can’t wait to share it with everyone – Eagle Manager, I’m coming for you!
"I’ve always felt there was somethingbigger out there for me, I just neverknew what it was until I found Forever,and now I can’t imagine not being a part of the Forever family."
FOUND THROUGH FATE
Amy is mum to two amazing children and has an eighteen-year-old stepdaughter who has joined her team. Working the business hasn’t always been easy, but Amy truly believes that Forever is her calling…
When I was first introduced to Forever I was asked to look at the business opportunity many times over the course of about nine months, but it was never something that interested me. Then in January 2015 my sister, Emma Rees, joined Forever. She asked if I wanted to join her team but I still didn't think that it was the right fit for me so she introduced me to the products instead. I started drinking Forever Aloe Vera Gel and I was amazed by the results, but I still wasn't sure whether I wanted to join the business. One day my sister decided to make a wager with me and said, "If you win over £200 at bingo when you take mum tonight, then it's fate and you have to join!" That night, both me and my mother won £1,000! I had never won bingo before and I haven't won since so perhaps it was indeed fate that led me to join Forever. Either way, I'm so glad I joined!
I have worked in the NHS as a dental nurse for thirteen years but the idea of gaining an extra income that could be spent on activities for the children, days out, weekends away and holidays abroad began to appeal to me. The additional income would also help towards putting the children through university and I have dreams of saving up and building my dream home! I joined Forever in February 2015 and had the most amazing few weeks after joining. I had no team but I hit Supervisor in just forty days with help from my amazing upline – Melissa Buckley and Tracey Munro were my rocks – but then I missed Assistant Manager by just seven case credit in the July. This caused me to doubt myself and Forever so I packed the family's cases and went to Spain. Taking a break with my family at our second home helped me to realise why I was doing Forever, and I returned from our break more determined than ever – I hit Assistant Manager in the November because I realised that if it’s meant to be, it is up to me!
This year I am focusing on rebuilding my team, and my goal is to hit Manager by June. I have achieved many of the company incentives and I even accompanied Melissa to Eagle Managers’ Retreat in 2016. I have never missed my monthly 4CC target since joining the company and I’m looking forward to seeing what the rest of 2017 brings.
"I hit Assistant Manager in the November because I realised that if it’s meant to be, it is up to me!"
Rupy has had to fight for her rights all her life, but Forever has given her the potential to take a new path…
When I was young, I was taken under the care of my aunt and uncle. It was hard because I wasn't your typical child, I was disabled. They took me in and brought me up alongside their own three children, and they never gave up on me. They gave me so much love and that made me the person I am today.
With their support, I gained my GCSEs and three A-grades at A-level, despite ‘professionals’ telling me that I’d never be able to achieve that. Even after I achieved these results I was told by social services not to go to university; they would not fund my support so we fought them so that I could go. Even at university it was a continuous battle to try and get the correct support.
With a lot of hard effort, I left university with a 2:1 and I am now training to be a doctor of health psychology. I still frequently worry that my support will be cut and I constantly have to plead, beg and fight with social services to ensure that I receive the support I need in order to live my life as a human being should do.
A few years ago, I became obsessed with playing the lottery; I’d pray that I’d win the Euro millions so that I didn’t have to worry about relying on social services. But in August 2016, I met my old school friend Lucy. She offered me hope when she introduced me to Forever and when I saw the potential of the business opportunity, I grabbed it. I saw a light at the end of the tunnel which would lead to a place where I wouldn’t have to degrade myself every few years to prove to social services what I can't do, just for them to give me the support I require. Instead I've joined a team that praises me for my abilities and what I CAN do. I'm no longer a victim, I can start dreaming again, and I no longer play the lottery!
The Forever opportunity is not really about the money, but rather the choices it offers. It gives people hope, and I want to offer hope to other people too; to those who, for whatever reason, feel as if their life is not in their own control. I'm going to ensure I work and achieve everything I can in Forever. I have so many aims and dreams now, and I'm looking forward to the day I write a letter to social services telling them that they can no longer rain on my parade!
"I've joined a team that praises me for my abilities and what I CAN do. I'm no longer a victim, I can start dreaming again."
Sapphire Manager Natalie Heeley continues to take the Forever world by storm as she secures the number one spot in the UK for the third year running.
As a leader admired by many across the world, a devoted mother to two wonderful children (plus one on the way), and a business-builder whose success continues to surpass expectations, Natalie carries with her an air of professionalism, power and self-confidence that many would envy. Forever’s Editor, Kate Hodge, caught up with Natalie at her beautiful country home to talk business, mindset, and why she’s Forever Proud…
KH: WHAT DID LIFE LOOK LIKE WHEN YOU FIRST STARTED FOREVER?
NH: I’ve been in Forever about ten years now but my background is in marketing. I was made redundant twice and the second time I was pregnant with my son Will. I therefore became a mum at home, which was great because it was what I always wanted anyway, and Rosie came along pretty quickly after, but money was a struggle. For ten years prior to this, my mum Jan Whittaker had been asking me to look at Forever, but I’d never been interested before. However, things changed when I had both children and I found myself wanting something that was going to be flexible, something that was going to be challenging, and something that was going to give me loads of support because I didn’t have much confidence or belief in myself at the time. Will was two and Rosie was five months old when I started my Forever business.
KH: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOURSELF IF YOU COULD GO BACK TO THOSE EARLY DAYS?
NH: If I were to start the business again, I would tell myself to never compare myself to other people. It’s so easy to do, but we need to remember that we are all on our own journey and we all come into it with different challenges, different goals and different skills. Every Forever Business Owner needs to realise that they are individuals who are able to make it happen. In fact, the only way you can fail is by quitting, so you need to make sure you are getting up each day with that positive mindset, getting out of your comfort zone, and working on challenges to ensure you overcome them. Self-belief also plays a crucial role. It took me two years to get to Manager because I didn’t believe that I could do it, and it took me a long time to learn that you have to work on your mindset daily.
KH: HOW DOES IT FEEL TO SECURE THE TOP SPOT AGAIN?
NH: It’s pretty amazing to be recognised as the number one FBO for the third year running, but it’s not just down to me – my team is just incredible and I want to say a big thank you to them all. This achievement is also a testament to hard work. When I started my Forever business I worked literally every moment I could around the children, and it just shows that if you put that hard work in, it will pay off in the long term.
KH: WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO FBOS WHO ASPIRE TO BE LEADERS IN THE FIELD?
NH: Firstly, it’s important that you do your research and make sure you are clear on what tools, events and trainings are available to you. You should then access these tools and trainings yourself before sharing them with your team. I think the company trainings and events that I’ve benefited from the most are the Success Express events. They are so important as they keep you motivated, they help to build team spirit, and the trainings are absolutely incredible. The Advisory Board product trainings are also essential as they will help to build your confidence when it comes to retailing the products and they will also help you to coach your team. Using the tools on foreverknowledge.info has also been beneficial to my business because everything is at your fingertips and you can access it from home in those little spaces throughout your day.
As well as promoting the company trainings and events, being a leader requires teaching others the basics of the business. It’s teaching people how to retail the products, how to do a great product launch, how to make a phone call, how to do a one-to-one and how to run a Business Presentation, whether that’s a home BP or over a coffee. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel as it’s worked for forty years; you just have to be persistent and teach others. For me, a massive part has been teaching others about mindset. I believe that 80% of our success is down to what we are telling ourselves so I constantly remind my team to work on their mindset daily.
KH: HAVE YOU ANY SUGGESTIONS FOR THOSE WHO FEEL THEIR BUSINESS HAS SLOWED?
NH: Remember not to compare yourself to other people – running a business is not a race and it is perfectly normal to go through stages where business remains at a steady pace. However, if you are keen to see growth, it may be worth looking back in your diary to remind yourself what activity you’ve been doing. Look at the past three months, how many one-to-ones have you had? How many guests have you taken to the Business Presentation? Ideally these are face-to-face activities but they could be online, and although you will probably find that you’ve done a bit, it’s likely you have room to do a lot more. Just try increasing your activity and you’ll soon see the results you crave. What I do, and what I tell my team to do, is to try and do a minimum of three to five one-to-ones per week, and attend a Business Presentation, with a guest, on a weekly basis.
By doing this amount of activity, you are likely to recruit one to three people each month. If you aren’t going to the BP, a big part of the jigsaw is missing – the BP will give you the motivation and encouragement you need to confidently talk about the business; make sure it plays a key role in the diary, but most importantly, don’t give up and know that you can do it.
KH: WHAT HAS THIS PAST YEAR (2016) LOOKED LIKE FOR YOU?
NH: This past year has been pretty magical: I turned forty when we were out in South Africa at Global Rally and this was followed by the most amazing family holiday. My kids, my mum, my brother and sister, we all went on safari and we really just spent loads of time together making memories. I had a big party with my team out in Johannesburg, and I also picked up a million dollar cheque which made it a pretty spectacular birthday. When we came home we had a few more parties, so it’s literally been a year of celebration and having fun. Amongst all this I also met my partner, we’ve renovated our beautiful farm house which has always been a dream come true, and then to finish the year off I found out that we are expecting a baby!
KH: WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR 2017?
NH: This year my focus is being a mummy again. Rosie is now eleven, Will is twelve, but this time it’s going to be so, so different. All those years ago I didn’t have much money or time, I was a single parent and there were lots of challenges that we had to face; this little girl is going to grow up in an entirely different environment. Our house is nearly finished so we are going to be living in our dream home and we can’t wait to introduce our baby girl into the family. It’s going to be pretty scary going back to babies but we are all so excited. I’m also looking forward to working with my team, watching them achieve Chairman’s Bonus and Eagle Manager, and obviously I am going to have the opportunity to meet lots of new mums which means conversations that could lead to them changing their future. All in all, 2017 is going to be a great year.
KH: WHY ARE YOU FOREVER PROUD?
NH: Forever has provided me with financial freedom and for me that means choices; choices to do whatever we want, when we want, without having to think about whether we can afford it. That’s been pretty life-changing for us. I’m also able to work closely with my mum and sister, and together we’ve been able to change our family’s lives. It’s humbling to know that by simply sharing the opportunity, we’ve changed hundreds of lives around the world as well. I love meeting so many different types of people and to work in such a positive and motivating environment is rare these days. That’s why I’m Forever Proud.
"Remember not to compare yourself to other people – running a business is not a race and it is perfectly normal to go through stages where business remains at a steady pace. However, if you are keen to see growth, it may be worth looking back in your diary to remind yourself what activity you’ve been doing."
Based in south-west London, Matt enjoyed a successful career working for a major brand. He was focused, passionate and hardworking, but the long hours and lack of time began to tarnish the corporate dream…
I started my Forever journey back in February 2015 whilst working for a large well-known soft drinks brand. I headed up their national sales team which consisted of over 130 managers, and while some may say I had the perfect career, I always believed there was more to life than working a sixty-hour week and having no time to yourself.
Fortunately, I saw the Forever opportunity as my way out of the corporate rat race. I set a goal to get to a place where I’d be able to quit my job within five months, and exactly five months later I resigned. I knew that working alongside such an incredible company with amazing products would work, so I began building a business by following everything that my upline told me to do. Kyle Burrows and Emma Cooper were outstanding mentors!
I achieved Manager in three months by working my business around my job, and alongside managing my own personal £multi-million international property portfolio. I was also having my house extended and I was in the middle of buying a new three-bed London apartment to rent out. I may have been busy, but I made time for my Forever business; it was going to set me up for the future and once there I would never have to look back!
I now have four amazing Managers based in Scotland, and a team of over 300 people – we are like one big happy family! The friendships you make in Forever are incredible; these people are going to be in my life for the rest of my days, and the journey we are going to walk together makes me ‘smile’. When I was at Global Rally in South Africa, I looked around and, whilst holding back emotion, I knew I was working for something special when I saw such inspirational and highly motivational people.
I am more committed than ever to carry on building my business with Forever, and Senior Manager is firmly set on the horizon, but I have also had the time to retrain in something I’ve always been passionate about – property. I have now qualified as a self-employed mortgage and insurance advisor and I intend to work this role alongside my Forever business. Forever has given me options; options to have more time, freedom, and the ability to do what I want, when I want, and with whom I want. That is priceless! I would like to thank everyone who is playing a key part in my journey and I am super-excited for the years ahead.
"The friendships you make in Forever are incredible; these people are going to be in my life for the rest of my days."
Forever found me at a time in my life when I truly believe I needed it the most. At the time, I had three young kids, all below the age of five, with the two youngest only thirteen months apart. My kids and my husband Ross are my rocks, my inspiration, and the ones who drive me to be the best I can be…
Before Forever I was a bank branch manager and I’d worked in the same corporate organisation for fifteen years. I had a great salary, a great team and it was my dream job. Life was good but when I fell pregnant with Poppy (our third), things started to change.
One month before Poppy was born my mum was diagnosed with terminal cancer. My whole world fell apart. She underwent a life-threatening operation the day before Poppy was born and I suddenly realised that this ‘dream job’ I thought I had wasn’t going to work anymore. It was missing something crucial – work-life balance. It was clear that juggling three young kids, a corporate career and mum’s illness just wasn’t possible. I had no time, and sadly time was running out for mum faster than we thought.
After I had Poppy, I was desperate to lose some ‘baby weight’, so I decided to try the C9. Afterwards I looked great and felt amazing, and the lady I bought it from suggested I take a look at the business opportunity. I took one look at the Marketing Plan and knew straight away that I was in.
Suddenly I had found a business that I could work around nap times, mum’s treatments, feeds, hospital visits, school, kids’ clubs, etc. I had found my way out, and a way to create the work-life balance I craved.
Forever has given us so much. Fast-forward to 2017, and we have an extended family home, we have managed to take the kids to Disney and I have travelled to places I could only dream of before. With our first Chairman’s Bonus cheque we were able to replace our old car, and the remainder went to Strathcarron Hospice where my mum spent her last ten days (she sadly passed away in January 2016).
The most important thing that this business has given us is memories and the time to create them; memories with Ross and the kids, and memories with mum. We were able to take her on trips, and I was able to be by her bedside twenty-four hours a day when she was in the hospice. This was the moment I realised that the business opportunity has the potential to change lives – it had certainly changed mine!
"I took one look at the Marketing Plan and knew straight away that I was in. Suddenly I had found a business that I could work around nap times, mum’s treatments, feeds, hospital visits, school, kids’ clubs, etc."
Angelina and her husband Marlon both work crazy hours but this led to them looking into the Forever opportunity. Angelina realised that working the business would soon give her the time freedom she craved…
My journey with Forever started when a friend of mine contacted me to highlight the fabulous opportunity. It took a couple of attempts of contact, but once we met, I signed on the spot – I was so excited about starting a new journey and I felt it would really benefit my family.
My husband and I both work long shifts which means we’re constantly juggling childcare for our two children Paige and Dylan. I work for the emergency services, which means a varied shift pattern often at unsociable times, and my husband's job is of a similar ilk. Fitting in quality family time is a nightmare so one of the main reasons for starting the business was so that I could earn enough to free up time, time that could be spent together as a family.
My Business Owner Box arrived and I got to work. I made sure I started by familiarising myself with the products and I quickly saw the benefits which helped to fuel my enthusiasm. I also knew early on that I wanted to build a team; I wanted to help others like me achieve their goals and dreams, and I loved the idea of giving them an opportunity which could lead to a better future and lifestyle.
Forever has helped me to become more confident by taking me out of my comfort zone. I’ve met so many new and different people – my normal daily routine wouldn't allow this – and this has helped me immensely. I have travelled to many cities thanks to building my business, and I’m consistently broadening my knowledge. I'm excited about our future and it’s now looking even brighter; the prospect of dropping my hours at work is looking more likely and this means I’ll be able to spend more quality time with my family whilst I continue to grow my business.
"Forever has helped me to become more confident by taking me out of my comfort zone."
Gary always had a passion for music and entertaining others, but after years of dedicating himself to the industry, he realised he needed to find something that offered him a better life balance…
I started singing around the pubs and clubs at the age of eighteen. My mum helped me to get started by paying for my first PA system and managing me, and through this I built up an amazing career entertaining crowds under the name of Gary Marsden.
Over the years I’ve had the privilege of singing alongside some well-known artists like The Vengaboys, Lisa Scott-Lee from Steps and Alexandra Burke. I absolutely love singing and I'm also part of a duo called Fascination! I had dreams of becoming a pop star and of having a lifestyle like a rich and famous person, but, at the age of thirty-four, these dreams seemed less likely.
Alongside my music career, I worked as a presenter at my local bingo. For the past twelve years I've worked split shifts and my working pattern began to take its toll. Gigs and bingo took up most of my time, any kind of social life was rare, and I knew things were only going to continue unless something changed.
I came across Forever when I noticed one of my friends had achieved impressive results from completing the C9. I wanted to know more so got in touch with a friend of over fifteen years who I knew sold the product. After completing the programme I felt amazing and was very happy with the results. A few days later I received a message from Jo saying how great I'd be at the business – I didn't even know the business opportunity was available to me but after seeing the Business Presentation I was amazed! After much discussion, I realised that this opportunity would give me the chance to finally turn my dreams into reality.
I couldn't afford the Business Owner Box so my mum came to the rescue; she knew how passionate I was about it. I joined Forever and after two months I'd managed to recruit three people and not long after this I hit Supervisor. The feeling was amazing but I wouldn't have done it without the hard work and support of my team. Forever is now my focus and I can see a big future ahead. I know, hand on heart, that I will be successful and I urge anybody who is looking for change to pursue this amazing business; it could transform your life like it is mine.
"After completing the programme I felt amazing and was very happy with the results."
Ex-professional footballer Darren was on top of his game having played for premiership and championship team Blackburn Rovers (and other clubs) from the age of fourteen. However, when he was in his mid-twenties, an injury caused everything to change. His partner, Charlotte Hawes, shares his story…
Darren’s life was football, football, football. Every day was about working on his fitness, training and being healthy, and if he wasn’t on a football pitch or in the gym, he was on the golf course! Darren played with and against top players and he would visit and play in various countries – he was ‘living the dream’. But, in 2008, Darren suffered a snapped cruciate and problems with his knees, and although he is still playing local football, his professional career had to come to an end.
Darren was devastated as football was all he knew from such a young age. He had to have four knee operations and it was becoming a daily struggle for him to work and walk, never mind trying to play football!
Darren discovered Forever whilst working at a client’s house and soon realised, without knowing the details, that there was a very good opportunity available. Darren recommended the business to me as he knew I was at a crossroads – I had very little spare time and no work-life balance, and we instantly saw an opportunity to earn (in time) a substantial income alongside a flexible lifestyle.
We signed up and I currently play the lead role whilst Darren shares his product experiences and the opportunity to everyone he meets. So far the business has given us amazing friendships, it’s allowed us to set goals and get excited, and we can now start to build a career together and plan for a future we didn’t think was possible.
Darren and Charlotte on F15…
Darren found Forever's products to be of great benefit to him and he is now keen to use the products to help him get back to the level of fitness he was pre-injury. Darren and Charlotte are currently part-way through the F15 programme. Here is what they have to say:
“F15 is fantastic and having a programme to follow for diet and exercise is giving me the best chance to get in shape and stay in shape. My motivation to be at a high level of fitness is back and I will reach the goals I’ve set. Since starting the programme, I’ve started to see definition and I’ve lost some weight in the process. If you’re doing F15, don’t give up, dig in and get it done – the end goal is always worth it.” – Darren Dunning
“Being a keen sportsperson myself but having struggled to get back into a regular fitness regime, the structure of F15, along with the brilliant workout videos that Forever produced, has given me the kick and the support I needed to get back on track.” – Charlotte Hawes
Bethan wanted more from her working life but as a young mum she found it difficult to progress. Then she discovered Forever…
In 2011, at the age of twenty-one, I was a single mum to my little boy Tyler who was two years old, and I was working full-time for a large retail chain. I dropped out of college at nineteen when I became pregnant and two years later I was feeling like I hadn’t fulfilled my potential. Retail became something I was good at and even though I adored being a mum, I didn’t want to be just another young mum in the system.
There was never anything wrong with my life; I had great friends and family, and a job that paid a wage that paid my bills, but there was always something missing – I just didn’t know what! My bosses were amazing but working full-time had no flexibility for me as a mum with a young child, and I really struggled to pay for childcare costs. I was working for the pride of being able to say I was, but I had no money once everything was paid. I had no qualifications other than my GCSEs, and no real life experiences. Even if I did want to do something else, I didn’t know where to start, but that’s when Forever found me. I saw a chance to shineand earn a corporate income with full training and support, so I jumped.
For the past six years I have built a global business and a corporate income that surpasses anything I could have ever imagined. My Forever income has allowed me to privately educate my eldest, travel the world, drive dream cars, have our dream wedding, and it’s given us time to have two more children: Miles, one, and we have another on the way! I love being a stay-at-home mum, but I also love that I don't have to sacrifice a career to do that.
I have spent the last few years building myself up, something I know is invaluable, and although I have a lot of friends who are sceptical, once I talk people through the Marketing Plan and the stability of the company, even if it isn’t right for them, they seem to come around.
I started this business as a baby and have become someone I’m truly proud of. Forever will never just be a job for me, and the people I work with will never just be people I work with; Forever is my life, and I will always be passionate about sharing this opportunity.
"For the past six years I have built a global business and a corporate income that surpasses anything I could have ever imagined."
I came out of school with a D as my highest GCSE and I was incapable of committing to even one year of college. At sixteen I went straight into an office administration role, but I only lasted a week! I picked myself up and tried again and landed a customer service role. This time six months went by, but then I was in the same situation, booted out for the better of the company! This pattern lasted for the years that followed.
I have dyslexia, ADHD and I’ve suffered with depression for a number of years. I can articulate and hold a good conversation so I don’t often come across like someone diagnosed with dyslexia, but I've always struggled to stay on task. I get distracted easily and time slips through my fingers. Writing is difficult and takes me a long time, and to concentrate on something is really hard work for me. These things, along with terrible time-keeping and a worse attitude, put a strain on me progressing in life.
When I was twenty-two I decided I was better suited to self-employment. I entered a modelling competition and for the first time I knew what I wanted. I moved to London to pursue it properly and through the jobs I received I met some incredible people, gained great experience and it was something I could pick up when I wanted. Unfortunately I just didn’t have the drive to push myself so I ended up returning to the office. After a year and a half I had had enough; I was tired and underpaid and I was also slipping into deeper depression.
I went to Bethan as a shell of my former self. For the first time in three years I was ready to listen to her. I had no idea if I could do it and I lacked self-belief, but I had nothing to lose. I wanted to learn and see if the business could do all the things it promised.
The more I worked the business and developed myself as a person, the more obvious it became that I had to make some serious life choices. In the space of a week I left my relationship, my home, a mortgage, the city, attended a funeral, and I helped my Nan through depression. Forever became a focus away from everything else, and I put all my efforts into helping, advising and guiding my team. My upline’s advice and dedication to me and my team kept me strong and excited, and I absolutely adore where my life is headed. I chose to believe the impossible was possible and now I’m proud to say I’ve found something I can, and will, commit to.
Felix Lloyd-Davies was born in 2000 and has been a part of Forever almost his entire life. His mum, Deborah Lloyd, previously worked in Management Consultancy and joined Forever in 1993. She we...
Felix Lloyd-Davies was born in 2000 and has been a part of Forever almost his entire life. His mum, Deborah Lloyd, previously worked in Management Consultancy and joined Forever in 1993.
She went on to develop a highly successful business and her achievements included receiving a six-figure Chairman’s Bonus cheque, reaching Sapphire Manager and becoming the Number 1 Distributor in the UK.
In just a few short months, summer will be in full swing. Longer evenings, warmer temperatures and the chance to catch up on plenty of rays. And the good news is that getting set for summer starts rig...
In just a few short months, summer will be in full swing. Longer evenings, warmer temperatures and the chance to catch up on plenty of rays. And the good news is that getting set for summer starts right now with Forever.
With our fantastic range of supplements – including our award-winning Forever Marine Collagen and our flagship Forever Aloe Vera Drinking Gels – you can be sure of drinking in the benefits in time for summer.
Find out how you can get set for summer below.
Celebrating its 75th Birthday in 2023, this year’s World Health Day is the chance to reflect on the health challenges of today – and tomorrow. So, to mark World Health Day, we asked Forever Amb...
Celebrating its 75th Birthday in 2023, this year’s World Health Day is the chance to reflect on the health challenges of today – and tomorrow.
So, to mark World Health Day, we asked Forever Ambassador and Irish Gaelic Footballer Kieran McGeary to tell us about the importance of staying healthy, keeping fit and post-workout recovery. We also asked him which Forever products he loves the most!
Read on to find out what he said…
Make the most of Easter this year with five fabulous Forever baking recipes. Whether your sweet tooth craves a delicious cake, a crumbly cookie or a sumptuous scone, this is the Easter baking guide fo...
Make the most of Easter this year with five fabulous Forever baking recipes. Whether your sweet tooth craves a delicious cake, a crumbly cookie or a sumptuous scone, this is the Easter baking guide for you.
What are you waiting for? Scroll down, pick your favourite recipe (we couldn’t, so good luck!) and get baking this Easter with Forever.
Spring is a season of renewal. A time when we like to start afresh and ‘Spring Clean’ various aspects of our homes and lives. And this makes springtime perfect for reviewing our skincare routine as...
Spring is a season of renewal. A time when we like to start afresh and ‘Spring Clean’ various aspects of our homes and lives.
And this makes springtime perfect for reviewing our skincare routine as we start to think about looking brighter and more ‘glowy’ after spending the winter months protecting our skin against drier, colder conditions.
It’s also a really good time to check on – and throw out – any expired products. Chances are there are probably a few lurking around that need to go. (Don’t forget to clean your make-up brushes and applicators too: Forever’s Aloe Jojoba Shampoo is great for this)
But whatever care we take around the surface of our skin, think exfoliation. Try Forever’s Smoothing Exfoliator once or twice a week or our Sonya Refining Gel Mask.
It’s equally important to focus on giving our skin the best chance of looking its best through nutrition and supplementation. And Forever Marine Collagen is an important staple in taking a holistic skincare approach. This is because collagen helps to strengthen the skin, as well as promote both elasticity and hydration.
We don’t do it on purpose. But the rigours of life sometimes mean our muscles and joints cry enough. Whether we push them to the limit in the gym or spend a little too long hunched over a computer scr...
We don’t do it on purpose. But the rigours of life sometimes mean our muscles and joints cry enough. Whether we push them to the limit in the gym or spend a little too long hunched over a computer screen in the office, a tired body often results in unavoidable aches and discomfort. And these aches are never enjoyable – whether you’re experiencing them post-exercise or just before heading to bed.
This is where cooling lotions can become your new best friend. Because at the end of a long day or after a challenging workout, nothing beats a cooling, relaxing sensation on your skin that helps to revitalise, recharge and re-energise tired muscles and joints.
But what are cooling lotions? What are the benefits of cooling lotions? And how can using them help you recharge and refresh? Our handy guide is here to give you the lowdown.
It's International Women's Day, so we asked six women from across the generations to share their experience of being part of the Forever family and tell us what it means to them. Dorothy Norris You...
It's International Women's Day, so we asked six women from across the generations to share their experience of being part of the Forever family and tell us what it means to them.
Mother’s Day is the ideal opportunity to pamper the mother figure in your life and thank them for everything they do.At Forever, we want to take the hassle out of choosing the right gift this Mother’s...
Mother’s Day is the ideal opportunity to pamper the mother figure in your life and thank them for everything they do.
At Forever, we want to take the hassle out of choosing the right gift this Mother’s Day. And because so many of our products pair up perfectly and work just as well on their own, you’re able to make it a Mother’s Day to remember this year - whatever your budget.
For each gift idea, you'll find more information and you can order the products by hitting the relevant links.
Happy Mother’s Day from everyone at Forever.
If you missed the chance to start your journey towards improved health and wellness in January, don’t worry. Because with Spring on the way – and its better weather and longer evenings – right now is...
If you missed the chance to start your journey towards improved health and wellness in January, don’t worry. Because with Spring on the way – and its better weather and longer evenings – right now is the perfect time to begin your reset.
We all have lifestyle and weight loss goals. But sometimes, life gets in the way and we simply don’t have time to make a plan and stick to it.
That’s where Forever’s C9 is here to help you. This easy-to-follow, nine-day programme gives you all the tools you need to kickstart your weight-management journey and hit your lifestyle goals in 2023.
Healthy eating
One of the most important aspects of any healthy lifestyle is what you eat. But it’s important to remember that everyone’s ‘ideal diet’ is different, and you should always make the food choices that suit you.
What’s great about Forever’s C9 is it provides you with the opportunity to meet your weight loss and lifestyle goals by following an expertly designed, calorie-controlled diet.
You’ll also get a fantastic list of recipes to add variety to your nine-day programme and ensure you don’t go hungry. Some of our top meals include the intriguing ‘Burrito Bowl’, the delicious ‘Indian Tofu’ and good-old fashioned ‘Pasta Night’.
We’ve even put together some seriously good Forever Lite Ultra shake recipes to offer healthy, delicious hits of inspiration throughout the programme.
Exercise
Exercise is one of the best ways to boost your health and wellness. And depending on how you like to exercise, it can often be free. It’s definitely easy to do – especially if you pace yourself and build up your stamina slowly.
On the C9 programme, Forever’s taken the hard work out of choosing which exercises to do and how often. For each day, you’ll receive a list of low-to-medium impact exercises to try, such as brisk walks, water aerobics and stretching.
Eating well is one of the best ways to boost health and wellness. So, we’ve pulled together three amazing Forever recipes to try this January: one for breakfast, one for lunch and one for dinner. All...
Eating well is one of the best ways to boost health and wellness. So, we’ve pulled together three amazing Forever recipes to try this January: one for breakfast, one for lunch and one for dinner.
All three recipes are vegetarian friendly, and each of them includes at least one fantastic Forever product to give your meal a real hit of flavour and additional nutrients. In the ingredient list for each recipe, we’ve put links to the Forever products you need – so it’s nice and easy to order them or send your customers to the right place.
They’re also really quick to make. We know time is often in short supply, and that’s why each recipe takes very little time to both prepare and cook.
Give your health and wellness a boost at the start of 2023. Be sure to give one (or all three) a try this January.
In May 1978, Rex Maughan invited close family and friends to the first Forever Living Products meeting in Tempe, Arizona. In the near forty-five years since, Forever has been dedicated to seeking out...
In May 1978, Rex Maughan invited close family and friends to the first Forever Living Products meeting in Tempe, Arizona. In the near forty-five years since, Forever has been dedicated to seeking out nature’s best sources, producing the finest products and sharing them with the world.
Forever is now the largest grower, manufacturer and distributor of aloe vera and is a multi-billion-dollar company trading in 160 countries worldwide.
But at its heart, Forever has always been about its Business Owners. Rex Maughan’s vision was to let the products and the people who try them speak for themselves. And that’s why we want to hear from you.
Mintel’s Global Consumer Trends Report 2023 reveals there are two things consumers are keeping at the front of their mind. The first is brand ethics; the second is their own mental wellbeing. C...
Mintel’s Global Consumer Trends Report 2023 reveals there are two things consumers are keeping at the front of their mind. The first is brand ethics; the second is their own mental wellbeing.
Consumers have emerged from the pandemic and a very uncertain 2022 keen to refocus on themselves. They’re also ready to make some inward changes as part of the ‘new normal’. And to help encourage new routines, brands can lean on trial periods to make it easier for consumers to begin to act on the idea that they do not need to be the same person they were in the past.
According to the Global Consumer Trends Report 2023, consumers want to quickly move forward and make up for lost time, diving into their preferred pursuits with gusto, seeking personalised products and services that match their skill level. At the same time, consumers will look for ways to become more resilient to change as they prepare for the uncertainties of the future.
The report also states that the demand for mental health and wellness-focused products will grow as consumers look to understand their blind spots and actively work to overcome them. Brands can address this desire for clarity about the future by tapping into the spiritual practices or moral beliefs that consumers follow and engage with. Additionally, 71% of UK consumers say that diet and exercise are important ways of managing their stress, while 62% say that daily rituals are an important way to lift their mood.
This leads us directly onto how DX4 – Forever’s popular body balancing system – is absolutely on point for our times and resonating with consumers. With over three years in development, it confirms just how good Forever is at ‘reading the room’ when it comes to what consumers want. This kind of market insight is exactly what keeps Forever relevant and at the forefront, even as it approaches its 45th Anniversary in 2023.
Given the findings of the Mintel report and the success of DX4 sales since its launch, we can confidently predict that the DX4 will continue to gain traction and popularity with customers.
The report also says that 41% of UK customers agree that direct-to-consumer brands have a more personal connection with consumers than traditional brands – another positive for Forever.
You can download Mintel’s Global Consumer Trends Report 2023 for free by clicking here.
Recent data shows that 70% of the working population are not financially comfortable and the same number of people report feeling anxious on Sundays ahead of their working week. That’s a lot of people...
Recent data shows that 70% of the working population are not financially comfortable and the same number of people report feeling anxious on Sundays ahead of their working week. That’s a lot of people feeling worried about meeting their bills and less than happy in their working lives.
Over 5 million people in the UK are now working second jobs as the financial crisis starts to bite, while another 10 million are considering getting an additional job to help with the rising cost of living*.
UK companies are collapsing at the fastest rate since the height of the global financial crisis as surging energy bills drive thousands of firms out of business. There were more than 5,600 insolvencies in England and Wales in the second quarter – the highest level since 2009, according to the Office for National Statistics. Construction, retail and accommodation and food services have been the hardest hit.
It’s clear that being able to bring additional money into the household quickly to help ease financial pressures is already a key consideration for many. Jan Oxenham from Merthyr Tydfil started her Forever business during the first lockdown in May 2020, as her fitness training business stopped overnight, and initially used her Forever retail income to maintain her personal pension contributions.
Jan says When I think of how many thousands of pounds I invested in my fitness training and qualifications over the years, to invest £199 in the Start Your Journey Pack and to be able to start within a few days was just incredible to me.”
So, it might be worth asking yourself do all my customers know that there is a business opportunity attached to Forever? Do they know they could save money on their regular product orders by signing up? It’s so easy to make assumptions about who would or would not be interested in joining. The truth is that we just don’t know. You could be offering someone a lifeline. Why not have the conversation? Start with your customers who already love and know the benefits of the products and as you grow in confidence start to share the opportunity with a wider audience.
What do you have to lose?
*https://www.cityam.com/more-than-5m-brits-have-more-than-one-job-and-10m-are-looking-for-a-side-hustle/
Don't underestimate how important it is for you to have ambition and achieve life goals. Realistic goals supported by a well-thought-out plan are necessary if you want to hit a target. Everything is a...
Don't underestimate how important it is for you to have ambition and achieve life goals. Realistic goals supported by a well-thought-out plan are necessary if you want to hit a target. Everything is attainable, whether you wish to run a marathon, launch a business, or lose weight. It only requires dedication, consistency, and the right attitude.
Let these five ways steer you in the right direction if you're having trouble achieving your goals. Here are some tips on how to achieve your life goals.
Charity is a beautiful way to help those less fortunate and those in need. Over the years, Forever Living has participated in various charitable efforts through the Rex Maughan Forever Giving Founda...
Charity is a beautiful way to help those less fortunate and those in need. Over the years, Forever Living has participated in various charitable efforts through the Rex Maughan Forever Giving Foundation, formerly known as Forever Giving which was founded in 2009. Forever has partnered with incredible organisations such as Hope and Homes, RSPCA Australia and Rise Against Hunger. This year, the Rex Maughan Forever Giving Foundation donated $116,157 to support the people of Ukraine.
Our charitable efforts have helped change the lives of many, while creating fantastic opportunities for communities to unite.
Learn how functional nutrition can set you on the path to better health.When it comes to nutrition, food can either help us or hinder us. But we’ve come a long way from relying on a one-size-fits-all,...
Learn how functional nutrition can set you on the path to better health.
When it comes to nutrition, food can either help us or hinder us. But we’ve come a long way from relying on a one-size-fits-all, food triangle approach to health. Now, it’s common knowledge that individuality plays a key role and that it’s important to consider a person’s health holistically — beyond just their diet. Taking cues from functional medicine, the concept of functional nutrition looks at diet, lifestyle, stress, and more to get a big-picture view of someone’s health journey. We spoke to Kat Morrill, an ACSM-certified personal trainer and ACE-certified health coach and nutrition specialist, to get insight into functional nutrition.
In what ways does lifestyle affect nutrition?
Poor sleep habits and high levels of unmanaged stress can lead to overindulging in hyperpalatable foods such as fast food and sugar. These foods create cravings for more hyperpalatable foods, which do not serve the body and lead to weight gain, headaches, bloating, moodiness and inflammation. But, if you create a healthy sleep routine, move daily and find appropriate ways to manage stress, you cultivate an environment where digestion and assimilation of food is optimised.
Is hydration a factor?
Absolutely! The body is approximately 60% water, so it is very difficult for the body to function if the delivery system is under-hydrated. Think of nutrients being delivered to the cells that need it, how we eliminate waste, our circulation, our muscles, our brain — they all require water. Dehydration can cause headaches, mixed up hunger signals, poor digestion, subpar performance, strain on the kidneys, and irritability.
How does food affect immunity?
Since approximately 70% of our immune system is in our gut, we can start improving our immune system by the foods we consume. Eating a diet of highly processed foods can weaken the body’s defense system, whereas adding foods like onions, garlic, legumes and asparagus — which feed healthy bacteria — help fortify the good bacteria. Eating whole, plant-based foods and healthy fats, limiting sugar and staying hydrated also bolster the immune system.
How does lifestyle affect immunity?
A sedentary lifestyle, poor sleeping habits, high stress and improper hydration can all adversely affect the immune system. Conversely, building good sleeping habits and managing stress through exercise, meditation and reading can improve immunity.
What advice do you have for those beginning a functional nutrition journey?
First, identify one or two areas where you’d like to see improvement. Then, practice removing something that isn’t serving your body, and replace it with something that will bring you closer to your goal. For example, if you have high stress, eliminate stress-inducing food like ice cream, chips and crisps. Replace those with meditation, exercise or a hot bath to calm the nervous system and dial down the stress.
What is functional nutrition?
Functional nutrition goes beyond calories, macros, and dietary requirements. It considers each person as an individual with different lifestyles, goals, habits and needs. It puts each individual at the centre of a plan and builds the plan uniquely around them. As a holistic approach, it includes the food that goes into the body and various other factors affecting how the body breaks down and utilises food.
How is standard nutrition different?
Standard nutrition refers to the generic guidelines. It can be a helpful starting point, but it isn’t customised. It’s important to consider a person’s lifestyle, environment, health status, diseases, likes/dislikes, goals, stress, sleep, etc. A regimented, standard diet has specific, unwaveringrequirements for every individual and asks the individual to conform to those.
Forever UK & Ireland are excited to welcome Kieran to the Forever family, particularly as the first Brand Ambassador from Ireland and the first from the GAA world. Kieran grew up in the remote, c...
Forever UK & Ireland are excited to welcome Kieran to the Forever family, particularly as the first Brand Ambassador from Ireland and the first from the GAA world.
Kieran grew up in the remote, countryside hills of Pomeroy, County Tyrone in Northern Ireland, and began his journey into the sport of GAA with the local club, Pomeroy Plunketts, at just six years old.
His success in representing the county of Tyrone began in 2012, when he was part of the winning team in the Ulster Minor Championship. Following that, Kieran’s GAA career soared - this included captaining the Tyrone U21s team to All Ireland success in 2015. However, Kieran’s most outstanding year to date was 2021 when, as part of the Tyrone County Senior Panel, they won the All-Ireland Championship title, picking up the much sought-after Sam Maguire Cup. Kieran was subsequently given the PwC All Star award and named as the 2021 GAA/GPA Player of the Year.
Kieran’s success, along with his natural humility and determination has made him a well-known figure within the GAA world, inspiring many young players to follow in his footsteps.
Keep in touch with Kieran by following him on social media:
Instagram: kieranmcgeary
Twitter: @KieranMcG94
Reset your body and your intentions with the all-new DX4 Body Balancing System We are so excited about the launch of our brand-new body balancing system, DX4, that we wanted to take...
Reset your body and your intentions with the all-new DX4 Body Balancing System
We are so excited about the launch of our brand-new body balancing system, DX4, that we wanted to take a deeper look into the science behind the system, and explore a little more about how the programme can help you to jump-start your wellness in just four days!
Launched at Global Rally 2022, DX4 is the latest in Forever’s line-up of health and wellness products. The four-day programme helps you reassess your physical, mental, and spiritual health through nutritional support, mindset practices, and guided food intake.
Beyond that, DX4 teaches you to adopt a more mindful, intentional approach to how you are eating and taking care of your body. The nutritional support, structured meal plan, and mindset activities combine to provide a programme greater than the sum of its parts, helping you learn to live a cleaner and healthier lifestyle after the four days are complete.
So, how is DX4 is different from other body-balancing systems?
DX4 takes a comprehensive approach to how you view food and asks the question “why do you feel hungry?” It is not a weight loss programme; instead, it is a controlled assessment of what your body needs versus what your brain wants. Through a guided programme, DX4 walks you along the path toward an enhanced mind-body connection. It balances physical health — through nutritional products and supplements and a structured meal plan — with mindfulness, goal setting and gratitude. All the programme’s functions are designed to work in tandem with one another to help you experience improved overall health.
How did science drive the development of DX4?
Science was absolutely crucial in the formulation of the DX4 programme. It was important to select quality ingredients with clinically backed research.
The effectiveness of each ingredient and the research behind every aspect of DX4 really sets it apart. We have met both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and European Food Safety Authority requirements for all vitamins or minerals noted on the labels, and have done so at safe and effective levels. Beyond that, we have utilized peer-reviewed and clinically proven ingredients and performed quality and safety testing of the raw ingredients and the finished products that comprise the DX4 system.
How was the structure of the programme determined?
Each ingredient is rigorously researched and formulated to work in tandem. Because this is coupled with mindset activities and a meal plan, you get a programme that will help you readjust your relationship with food. Our research and development team did a deep dive on new ingredients to help with these systems as well as implemented the existing Forever product, Forever Aloe Vera Gel.
Why is the mindset aspect of DX4 so important?
Perhaps the most important part of DX4 is how we (in our minds) perceive our mood, our eating impulses, and the decisions we make during stressful days. This programme will ask you to take time for yourself, practice mindfulness exercises, and set a goal. Sometimes our minds and bodies need a soft restart in order to be our best selves — and that’s exactly what DX4 is.
How can DX4 support your wellness goals?
The intent of DX4 is to help you reassess your relationship with food and your lifestyle. Because there will always be stressors and distractions in life, it’s important to make a reset such as this part of your healthy lifestyle routine. For best results, it is recommended to do DX4 multiple times per year, but you should have three months between each programme. Doing this reset each quarter will help you have a healthier mindset over time. Before you can make a sustainable change, you must address the inner workings of your body, mind and spirit to cultivate an enduring and complete wellness spectrum — and that is what DX4 does. By rebooting the body and mind at the foundational level of wellness, and repeating this reboot throughout the year, you will experience more balance.
What aspect of the DX4 programme are you most excited for? Let us know in the comments below.
The link between physical and mental health is becoming increasingly well understood and widely accepted. It makes sense to view ourselves holistically, taking a joined-up approach to our mental and p...
The link between physical and mental health is becoming increasingly well understood and widely accepted. It makes sense to view ourselves holistically, taking a joined-up approach to our mental and physical wellbeing. There are nutritional psychiatrists sharing their knowledge about the impact of food on our mood, recommending foods including vegetables, blueberries, nuts and seeds, legumes, fish, whole grains, herbs and spices and dark chocolate to ease anxiety, while it’s suggested that not eating enough protein at every meal can lead to anxiety, depression, hunger and fatigue.
A founding principle of health is of course sleep. Sleep is critical as we age because so much happens and needs to happen when we rest. Our immune system is hard at work at night, recharging, repairing and clearing away damaged DNA and cells. The glymphatic system (our brain’s immune system) does the same thing, plus it helps get rid of neurotoxic waste such as amyloid-beta plaques that gunk up our brain and cause inflammation. It’s so important to establish a bedtime routine for yourself just as your parents did for you as a child.
There’s a 3,2,1 approach you can take – no food 3 hours before bed, no work 2 hours before bed and no technology an hour before bed. A hot shower/bath, chamomile tea and reading (a book not on a device) can all help ease you into relaxation ahead of sleep. It’s also shown that we benefit from a regular bedtime going to bed at the same time and rising at the same time really supports our wellbeing.
Researchers from Harvard University followed more than 2,000 adults for six years, and focused on their regular sleep time. A regular sleep time was defined as falling asleep within the same 30-minute window on average. For example, if you fell asleep at 11:00 p.m. one night and 11:27 p.m. the next night, you were still within the parameters of your regular sleep time. But straying far from your regular sleep schedule, the researchers found, wasn’t great for your health. Participants with the most irregular sleep schedule, where there was a 90-minute gap on average between their regular sleep times over the course of a week, doubled their risk of cardiovascular disease within the next five years.
Now that we are enjoying longer days it’s important to spend some time outside in the sunshine. Sunlight increases the production of serotonin in the body. This is important because serotonin is needed to produce melatonin. When you get access to sunlight in the morning, you’re actually assisting your body in producing this sleep hormone. Just 15 minutes of sun exposure each day is all that is needed, this along with a regular bedtime hour can have a dramatic effect.
There is of course the impact of poor sleep on our cognitive function. The existing research strongly supports the notion that poor sleep detracts from effective thinking. Without quality sleep, people are more likely to make errors, fail to take in new information, suffer deficits in memory, or have impaired decision-making. As a result, poor sleep can harm intellectual performance, academic achievement, creative pursuits, and productivity at work.
It can be hard to create new habits for ourselves, to reset when we are busy with our day-to-day lives. No surprise that the Springtime presents a natural opportunity for us to plan changes. But realistically perhaps the time is never right, the circumstances will never be just perfect to take time-out perhaps we just need to decide and commit to upgrading our self-care, today.
Restore balance and ease ailments by slowing down. Effective physical fitness isn’t only about high-intensity workouts. There’s nothing quite like breaking a sweat, but it’s also imperative to incorpo...
Restore balance and ease ailments by slowing down. Effective physical fitness isn’t only about high-intensity workouts. There’s nothing quite like breaking a sweat, but it’s also imperative to incorporate stretching so your body can effectively use muscles, recover, and become more resilient.
Kat Morrill, an ACSM-certified personal trainer and ACE-certified health coach and nutrition specialist, encourages people to recognise that stretching should be more than an after-thought in their wellness routine — and that it’s beneficial for more than increased flexibility. In fact, both mobility work and stretching are key to building muscle, preventing injury, and optimising your health overall.
Before diving into the benefits of stretching, it’s important to understand the difference between mobility work and stretching. Mobility work typically precedes a workout, priming the joints, muscles, and tendons for optimum performance. Static stretching is best performed post-workout; it elongates muscles and restores range of motion. If you start stretching with intent, you’re bound to feel the benefits and you will create greater balance in your wellness. Read on to see just how impactful stretching really can be.
Prevents Injuries
Without mobility work and stretching to aid in improving range of motion, the probability of injury increases. According to Morrill, chronically tight, shortened muscles are more prone to injury. Plus, a subpar range of motion leads to joint tension, which can result in improper form during workouts. Warming up your joints with mobility exercises before any exercise is important, but especially when weightlifting, which puts increased load on your joints and muscles. Post-workout stretches allow your body to restore range of motion, helping prevent future injuries.
Improve Posture
We spend much of our lives with our heads in a forward position, whether we are texting, driving, or working at computers. This sedentary lifestyle, combined with the weight of the head, puts extra pressure on the discs, as well as neck and back muscles. It also leads to poor posture, which can result in aches and pains. Stretching — particularly the neck, thoracic spine, lower back, hips, shoulders, and chest — can help align your spine and relieve muscles that tighten up from prolonged sitting.
Get Better Blood Flow
Stretching gets your blood flowing, which carries oxygen to your cells and helps your organs function more effectively and efficiently. Better blood circulation can reduce post-workout soreness and increase oxygen to your muscles to help them perform better and for longer. Beyond that, Morrill says stretching also lowers your heart rate, reducing strain on your heart and stabilising your blood pressure.
Enhance Physical Performance
According to Morrill, stretching preps and primes the body for working out. Mobility movements will increase blood flow so that the body moves better and has an optimal range of motion while exercising. Post-workout, static stretching will help you achieve the necessary balance in your fitness regimen. Morrill encourages people to stretch and recover as hard as they train to maximise their results because, contrary to popular belief, a workout actually breaks muscles down while recovery builds them back up.
Optimise Mental Health
Stretching is a gentle way to slow down and give your mind and body a break. Because stretching has been shown to increase serotonin — the “feel good” hormone that reduces stress — it can help you relax, boost your mood, and experience mental clarity. Stretching does all of this by calming the central nervous system, which has a direct effect on stress and mood. Stress leads to muscle tension, so stretching helps reverse this cycle by easing areas of tightness while addressing their source.
How do you incorporate stretching into your fitness routine? Let us know in the comments below.
Soothe stress and promote balance with practices that encourage a harmonious home.The health of your home correlates to your own mental health, energy, and outlook. This is especially important now mo...
Soothe stress and promote balance with practices that encourage a harmonious home.
The health of your home correlates to your own mental health, energy, and outlook. This is especially important now more than ever because with the rise of remote workforces, homes are doubling as offices, and even tripling as gyms or yoga studios. Creating a home that looks and feels good isn’t just about tidying up (though it includes that too!). Spring is the perfect time to spruce up your home and bring harmony and balance. Here are eight simple things you can do to create a more calming environment.
Clear the Clutter
No questions about it, clutter creates chaos — which is the opposite of calm. If you have too much stuff, you’ll have too much stimulation in your environment, and you’ll also spend a lot of time shuffling it around. An easier solution is to completely clear it.
Beyond that, studies have shown that clutter causes a lack of focus and increased stress, which is an especially big issue if you’re working from home. But how do you even decide what “clutter” is? That can be a very personal decision, but a good place to start is getting rid of anything you don’t use, need, or love. This can include furniture, decor, gifts, clothes, books, old magazines, and papers (mail, receipts, etc.).
Start by dividing your things into four boxes: donate, discard, keep, and store. Your goal is to find a home within your home for everything in your “keep” box. And don’t forget to be mindful of surface clutter, which is easy to accumulate. Either keep flat surfaces clear or limit the amount of items on display. This will create openness and bring a minimalistic calm to your space.
Give Every Room a Role
With more and more people working from home, it’s increasingly important to give every room a role. By designating rooms for various activities — such as working in the office and reading/sleeping in the bedroom — you subconsciously allow yourself to have better focus in your office perhaps, or even enhanced comfort in your bedroom. Plus, you’ll create more ease and purpose within your home.
Even if you’re not working from home, a dedicated space for doing productive tasks such as paying bills, catching up on emails, making your shopping list, etc. gives you a tangible symbol that it’s focus time. This could be done from a small writing desk in your living room; it doesn’t need to be a fancy setup.
When it comes to your bedroom, be especially mindful. Your bedroom should be your sanctuary, allowing you to escape from the busyness of your day-to-day schedule. As tempting as a TV may be, the blue light from this can affect your sleeping patterns. Instead, opt for some soothing plants, colours that calm you, and your favourite books or photos of fond memories.
Embrace the Power of Plants
Nature has a healing effect that promotes tranquillity, so bring the restorative qualities of green pastures indoors. Plants add verdant pops of colour while also bringing a sense of aliveness to your space (they are living, after all!).
There are many houseplants to choose from — add an aloe plant in your kitchen window (they love the sun), or try any number of succulents throughout your home for a low-maintenance botanical feel. Snake plants and pothos are both beautiful options, too.
Of course, pet owners should do research before bringing home any new plant as some plants are toxic to certain animals.
Harness Natural Light
Natural light aids in adding openness, airiness, and serenity to your home. Plus, a naturally lit room boosts productivity, improves mood, and creates overall more tranquillity than an artificially lit environment. Luckily, incorporating natural light into your home is easy to do — just open the blinds or curtains. Take it a step further by hanging sheer, billowy curtains that add movement and enhance the airy feeling.
If a room lacks light, perhaps due to the direction the room faces or if it has few windows, or you simply want more brightness, you can use reflective surfaces to enhance light. Strategically placed mirrors and lacquered pieces will reflect sunlight, thereby doubling the amount of natural light in your home.
Create Wellness Areas
People’s homes have transformed into places of productivity. No longer is home only meant for restoration after a long day. To have a greater sense of separation between down time and work time, it can help to take giving every room a role a step further.
To do so, create a special space where you can journal, meditate, read, and escape. This space doesn’t need to be anything over the top. The key is to set up an area where you can have quiet time and prioritise your mental health.
This can be as simple as transforming a small corner of a room into a cosy nook with a comfortable chair and small side table, giving you a specific space to relax and unwind. Bonus: Make it a tech-free zone!
What are your tips creating a tranquil space? Let us know in the comments below.
Springtime. Typically the season for sprucing up and sorting out our homes and wardrobes, spring is the perfect time to check in and take stock. Whilst cleaning out and sprucing up our homes and mater...
Springtime. Typically the season for sprucing up and sorting out our homes and wardrobes, spring is the perfect time to check in and take stock. Whilst cleaning out and sprucing up our homes and materialistic possessions can make us feel refreshed and set for the summer months ahead, checking in with our mental and physical health can be just as important.
Spring is the perfect time to look at your nutritional goals, and after a strong start to the year why not take that even further and really get yourself set for the sunny (hopefully!) summer months. That is why throughout April, May, and June we will be focusing on ways to ‘Spring into Action’. Here are a few ways in which you can spring clean your mental and physical health this season:
Make sure you are getting enough sleep
Sleep is essential for being able to function throughout the day. Sleep deprivation can have a range of effects that can be detrimental to your physical and mental health. It is recommended that you get between seven and nine hours of sleep a night, but of course this is differs for each person. To help you get a full and restful night sleep, avoid distractions in the bedroom such as screens, as the blue light can be disruptive to your sleeping patterns.
Write down five things you’re grateful for, every morning.
Focus your mind on the things you are grateful for, and write them down. Doing so will put things into perspective, and gratitude will start to become an instinctive reaction. Making this part of your morning routine will give you good head start to a positive day.
Eating a balanced diet
We know you’ve heard it a million times, but eating a healthy, balanced diet can really do wonders for your body and your mental health. Make sure you’re eating plenty of the right foods and limiting things that you know will make you feel bloated, sluggish or unwell. Consume protein, healthy fats and fibre at each meal to keep you fuller for longer, and snack of fruits and veggies between meals. Ensure you’re eating a well-balanced diet which includes 50% fruit or veggies, 25% protein and 25% carbohydrates on each plate, and a roughly 80/20 split of healthy foods and your favourites (because allowing yourself to eat everything in moderation will keep you from going crazy!).
You can also try Forever Lite Ultra, a nutritious protein shake, ideal for breakfast or as a workout snack. This versatile product can be used if you’re watching your calorie intake, or as a filling protein snack if you’re trying to gain weight, as it contains 24g protein per serving. You can even add different fruits or veggies to it to mix up the flavour and consume a full range of nutrients easily.
Exercise
Sometimes it can be hard to find the time to make your fitness plans work around your busy schedule, but exercising not only makes us feel better, it can also be a good way to reduce stress too. Blocking out some time in your daily routine will improve your physical appearance, as well as your mental state too, keeping you more focused for work. To truly optimise your workout efforts, the Forever F.I.T programmes will help you feel cleansed, as well as adding vital nutrients to your diet to ensure your hard work doesn’t go unnoticed.
Change Up Your Commuting Habits
Do you need to drive or take public transportation as much as you do? Are there any regular trips you make that could be done on foot instead, or on a bike? If you’re lucky enough to work somewhere you can get to on a bike instead of a car, try pedalling to work a couple of days a week.
Relax and unwind
Making sure that you put down your devices at least an hour before you go to bed will allow you to properly unwind from your day, and help you sleep better. Making sure you carve out some well-deserved ‘me time’ will also help you clear your mind and renew your focus. Journaling can also be a great way to unwind and write down all the thoughts both positive and negative of the day. Taking some time out to write down all of the thoughts that are adding to your mental clutter can help to free up space in your head, and make you feel less overwhelmed.
So those are some useful tips on how to get started on a fitness journey! Let us know in the comments how you plan to start yours!
Soothe stress and promote balance with practices that encourage a harmonious home.The health of your home correlates to your own mental health, energy, and outlook. This is especially important now mo...
Soothe stress and promote balance with practices that encourage a harmonious home.
The health of your home correlates to your own mental health, energy, and outlook. This is especially important now more than ever because with the rise of remote workforces, homes are doubling as offices, and even tripling as gyms or yoga studios. Creating a home that looks and feels good isn’t just about tidying up (though it includes that too!). As you head into 2022, here are eight simple things you can do to create a more calming environment.
Clear the Clutter
No questions about it, clutter creates chaos — which is the opposite of calm. If you have too much stuff, you’ll have too much stimulation in your environment, and you’ll also spend a lot of time shuffling it around. An easier solution is to completely clear it.
Beyond that, studies have shown that clutter causes a lack of focus and increased stress, which is an especially big issue if you’re working from home. But how do you even decide what “clutter” is? That can be a very personal decision, but a good place to start is getting rid of anything you don’t use, need, or love. This can include furniture, decor, gifts, clothes, books, old magazines, and papers (mail, receipts, etc.).
Start by dividing your things into four boxes: donate, discard, keep, and store. Your goal is to find a home within your home for everything in your “keep” box. And don’t forget to be mindful of surface clutter, which is easy to accumulate. Either keep flat surfaces clear or limit the amount of items on display. This will create openness and bring a minimalistic calm to your space.
Give Every Room a Role
With more and more people working from home, it’s increasingly important to give every room a role. By designating rooms for various activities — such as working in the office and reading/sleeping in the bedroom — you subconsciously allow yourself to have better focus in your office perhaps, or even enhanced comfort in your bedroom. Plus, you’ll create more ease and purpose within your home.
Even if you’re not working from home, a dedicated space for doing productive tasks such as paying bills, catching up on emails, making your shopping list, etc. gives you a tangible symbol that it’s focus time. This could be done from a small writing desk in your living room; it doesn’t need to be a fancy setup.
When it comes to your bedroom, be especially mindful. Your bedroom should be your sanctuary, allowing you to escape from the busyness of your day-to-day schedule. As tempting as a TV may be, the blue light from this can affect your sleeping patterns. Instead, opt for some soothing plants, colours that calm you, and your favourite books or photos of fond memories.
Embrace the Power of Plants
Nature has a healing effect that promotes tranquillity, so bring the restorative qualities of green pastures indoors. Plants add verdant pops of colour while also bringing a sense of aliveness to your space (they are living, after all!).
There are many houseplants to choose from — add an aloe plant in your kitchen window (they love the sun), or try any number of succulents throughout your home for a low-maintenance botanical feel. Snake plants and pothos are both beautiful options, too.
Of course, pet owners should do research before bringing home any new plant as some plants are toxic to certain animals.
Harness Natural Light
Natural light aids in adding openness, airiness, and serenity to your home. Plus, a naturally lit room boosts productivity, improves mood, and creates overall more tranquillity than an artificially lit environment. Luckily, incorporating natural light into your home is easy to do — just open the blinds or curtains. Take it a step further by hanging sheer, billowy curtains that add movement and enhance the airy feeling.
If a room lacks light, perhaps due to the direction the room faces or if it has few windows, or you simply want more brightness, you can use reflective surfaces to enhance light. Strategically placed mirrors and lacquered pieces will reflect sunlight, thereby doubling the amount of natural light in your home.
Create Wellness Areas
People’s homes have transformed into places of productivity. No longer is home only meant for restoration after a long day. To have a greater sense of separation between down time and work time, it can help to take giving every room a role a step further.
To do so, create a special space where you can journal, meditate, read, and escape. This space doesn’t need to be anything over the top. The key is to set up an area where you can have quiet time and prioritise your mental health.
This can be as simple as transforming a small corner of a room into a cosy nook with a comfortable chair and small side table, giving you a specific space to relax and unwind. Bonus: Make it a tech-free zone!
What are your tips creating a tranquil space? Let us know in the comments
Feeling valued and appreciated is fundamental to our happiness. Recognition of our achievements, both large and small is important to raise happiness levels both for an individual, and within teams. W...
Feeling valued and appreciated is fundamental to our happiness. Recognition of our achievements, both large and small is important to raise happiness levels both for an individual, and within teams. Why else would 65% of employees cite lack of recognition as the number one reason they quit their jobs? Within Forever we understand the value of recognition, it's part of our DNA and often a key factor in why so many are inspired to start their own business journey.
So how and why does recognition affect us in such a profound way?
It's something our brains are hardwired to need. In fact, recognition results in the release of dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter produced in the brain. Dopamine stimulates the parts of the brain (ventral striatum and nucleus accumbens) that process rewards and create positive emotions like satisfaction and enjoyment.
But because the effects of dopamine wear off quite quickly, this means we need to recognise people regularly. Recognition is a short-term need that has to be satisfied on an ongoing basis. How often should we recognise someone? Well, it varies from individual to individual, but weekly praise (sincere and specific) for small achievements is suggested by Gallup while more significant recognitions for larger achievements can be made monthly. These are not hard and fast rules and it would be fair to add that flexibility is important. Catch people doing things well and praise them quickly. It could be a call, an email or a WhatsApp message but don't keep it one to one, why not mention them in a group WhatsApp or in your Facebook group or whatever platform your team comes together. A team video meeting would be a perfect way to celebrate someone. Sometimes in life the big things are the little things – thank you and praise goes a long way. People are seldom made happy by financial reward alone.
Be sensitive to individual team members' needs. Many people join Forever to escape being a cookie-cutter employee where everyone is the same. Not everyone will develop their business at the same rate, they will have individual goals and have different commitments, they will have different levels of motivation and amounts of time to develop their businesses. People develop skills at different rates and have different levels of confidence with different aspects of the business, some may love retail but shy away from recruiting. By the same token not everyone wants to be recognised in the same way; respect these differences and work with them.
Studies show that recognition directly impacts our motivation. The top three de-motivators are; feeling undervalued, lack of recognition, and in case you're interested in the third de-motivator; it's having a bad manager.
Feeling de-motivated impacts us in the following ways (in order of priority):
1. Our mood declines (worsens)
2. We become less productive
3. Our mental health is impacted (declines)
4. The quality of what we do (our work) declines
5. The quality of our diet declines (we make poor choices)
That's a pretty powerful list and it's easy to see how all of the above have far reaching effects on our happiness and the overall quality of our lives both personally and professionally. In a recognition culture, 31% less people leave and let's not underestimate the power of recognition by fellow team members rather than just from our uplines. Peer-to-peer recognition is 35.7% more likely to have a positive impact than just top down recognition, so encouraging team members to recognise and praise one another is important too.
Keep the joy - if you'd like to learn more and explore some ideas on how to recognise team members check out an earlier blog.
Click Here for - Friendship team recognition blog July 2020
Inner leaf aloe gel from an Aloe Barbadensis Miller plant is beneficial for humans and animals when consumed as a drink or when used as a topical product, so what exactly can aloe do to boost your lif...
Inner leaf aloe gel from an Aloe Barbadensis Miller plant is beneficial for humans and animals when consumed as a drink or when used as a topical product, so what exactly can aloe do to boost your lifestyle?
From Forever Aloe Vera Gels to Forever Bee Honey, you’re probably familiar by now with the range of consumable products that Forever stocks, each with their own individual health benefi...
From Forever Aloe Vera Gels to Forever Bee Honey, you’re probably familiar by now with the range of consumable products that Forever stocks, each with their own individual health benefits. But have you ever stopped to consider all the possible ways to use them?
Our Flavours of Forever recipe book launches on 2nd December 2021 and with over 80 recipes it’s been designed specifically so that you can experience the true power of aloe in a variety of different ways. If you’re a Forever Business Owner, it is also a fantastic retailing tool! Below you’ll find out how to use it as a retailing tool for your business, as well as how to create the two most cosy recipes from the book – our Ultra-Choc ‘N’ Fiery Hot Chocolate, and our Vanilla Shortbread Cookies, perfect for Christmas.
Be sure to also tune into December’s ‘The Bob Parker Show’ on Wednesday 1st December at 7:00pm to watch Bob and the team create these recipes live. Register here: https://flpuk.info/BobParkerShow
The festive season is perfect for spending time with the people you care about and focus on the important aspects of life. But the season can also be a stressful time. Things like shopping for the rig...
The festive season is perfect for spending time with the people you care about and focus on the important aspects of life. But the season can also be a stressful time. Things like shopping for the right gifts, hosting gatherings and dealing with travel plans can all add stress to an otherwise peaceful time.
When the pressures of the season start weighing you down, a little self-care can help set things right and get you on the road to feeling more balanced and peaceful. That’s why we’ve compiled a few tips to help you take a little time out to practice self-care. Even if you can only spare a little bit of time each day, every minute makes a difference.
It’s been a stellar year so far for Forever on the Awards front with 16 wins in 2021 alone, including a prestigious Woman & Home Award for the Smoothing Exfoliator winning the Best Daily...
It’s been a stellar year so far for Forever on the Awards front with 16 wins in 2021 alone, including a prestigious Woman & Home Award for the Smoothing Exfoliator winning the Best Daily Exfoliator category. In this blog we’ll cover the wins and some details about the individual Awards so that you can talk knowledgeably about the significance of Award-winning products to your customers.
People can be reluctant to try products that they haven’t heard of and can be particularly brand loyal when it comes to skincare often using products that they have grown up with (what mum used perhaps?). Having an award win generates interest, it makes products stand out and it’s a conversation starter.
In Robert Cialdini’s book ‘Influence, the psychology of persuasion’, he describes the 6 principles that influence behaviour; Reciprocation, Commitment & Consistency, Social Proof, Authority, Liking and Scarcity. Winning product or business awards fits into the categories of social proof and authority. As individuals we are influenced by independent third-party endorsements; they build credibility and trust in the brand and its products.
How can we use Awards?
2021 alone has been an amazing, multi award-winning year for Forever, and we do love to see our name in lights! Some of the most exciting award wins we’ve had so far this year include: Smoothing Ex...
2021 alone has been an amazing, multi award-winning year for Forever, and we do love to see our name in lights! Some of the most exciting award wins we’ve had so far this year include:
Smoothing Exfoliator winning in the Women & Home Beauty Awards
Aloe Liquid Soap winning Gold in the Global Makeup Awards and Gold at the Global Green Beauty Awards
Sonya Gel Moisturiser winning Silver in the Global Makeup Awards
Infinite Firming Complex winning Bronze in the Green Parent Awards
Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask winning Silver in the Beauty Bible Awards and Silver at the Global Green Beauty Awards
Aloe Jojoba Conditioner winning Gold in the Global Green Beauty Awards
Forever Instant Hand Sanitizer won Gold Global Makeup Awards
Aloe Sunscreen won Gold at the Green Parent Awards
Native to Morocco, Argan oil has been referred over the centuries as ‘liquid gold’. This versatile, light-weight oil is extracted from the kernels of the Argan tree and is now getting its much-d...
Native to Morocco, Argan oil has been referred over the centuries as ‘liquid gold’. This versatile, light-weight oil is extracted from the kernels of the Argan tree and is now getting its much-deserved spotlight in some of our newest Forever products.
Whether on oily, dry, combination or normal skin, argan oil can be used on all skin types at any age. A comedogenic rating demonstrates the likelihood of an oil clogging pores: Argan oil absorbs quickly and it has a 0 rating for clogging pores. It also assists in preventing the signs of premature ageing as it’s high in Omega-6 fatty acid and Omega-3 compounds which makes it full of antioxidants, moisturising and calming properties.
And, of course, paired with fantastic benefits of topical aloe, Argan oil adds so much to our newest Personal Care products.
This holiday season, give the gift of one of Forever’s Award-Winning Skincare products. With a ‘stamp of approval’ and additional credibility from 3rd party awarding bodies, these products have had to...
This holiday season, give the gift of one of Forever’s Award-Winning Skincare products. With a ‘stamp of approval’ and additional credibility from 3rd party awarding bodies, these products have had to beat hundreds of other brands to receive these awards and accolades in overall quality and efficacy.
Infinite by Forever Hydrating Cleanser was a finalist at the Global Makeup Awards in 2021 and is a great base to your skincare routine as you always start with a cleanser in your routine. Forever’s Hydrating Cleanser is full of potent, naturally-derived ingredients like apple extract, apple amino acid and cocoa fatty acids that increase skin hydration and gently wash away dirt and oil without drying. This mild, milky cleanser will leave skin feeling hydrated, soft and clean to lay a strong foundation for the rest of your anti-ageing routine.
This cleanser is also part of the Infinite by Forever Advanced Skincare System which was the Editor’s Choice winner at the Beauty Shortlist Awards in 2018. This collection has been designed to work together to give you beautiful skin from the inside out and the outside in. The topical products are designed to hydrate skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while Infinite Firming Complex supplements inner skin beauty support with vitamin C to contribute to normal skin collagen formation for the normal function of skin.
After cleansing, add a serum. The ingredients found in serums are made up of smaller molecules that can penetrate deeply into the skin and deliver a high concentration of active ingredients. The Infinite Firming Serum was a Silver winner at the Pure Beauty Awards in 2017. Formulated to lock in moisture and prevent dehydration, the serum targets the signs of ageing with a clinically-proven three-amino acid peptide that complements the natural process of skin to increase firmness and to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Serums also have less ingredients, but more of them to help boost your moisturiser and meet your bespoke skin needs. Hydrating Serum in the Targeted range was a finalist at the Global Makeup Awards in 2021 and won Silver at the Pure Beauty Awards in 2020. With four types of hyaluronic acid, this serum helps to seal moisture in and take hydration to deeper layers in the skin. It also aids to shield against environment stressors and absorbs quickly into the skin with plant fatty acids such as olive oil, shea butter and coconut. Amazing botanicals such as snow mushroom and tamarind assist in extra hydration and protection.
Forever’s Smoothing Exfoliator won the Highly Commended accolade at the Pure Beauty Awards in 2018 and was a winner at the Beauty Awards in 2021. The Smoothing Exfoliator uses natural Jojoba beads and sustainably sourced Korean bamboo powder to improve the appearance of tone and texture by removing dead skin without stressing or scratching newer skin underneath. Bromelain extract (pineapple) helps lift dead skin while papain extract (papaya) is a rich source of vitamins C, A, E. And Lemon essential oil is a fantastic moisturiser that hydrates to help the skin feel renewed. Use 2-3 times a week for an extra cleanser for dead skin cells.
Our Awakening Eye Cream from the Targeted Range was also a finalist at the Global Makeup Awards in 2021. Awakening Eye Cream smooths and firms the delicate eye area so that the eyes appear ‘bright-eyed’ - rested, alert and renewed. Patented ingredients with peptide technology encourage the production of healthy collagen, and paired with aloe, which helps to improve and strengthen the skin’s surface while reducing the appearance of wrinkles. This amazing non-greasy formula is dual function and targets the upper eyelid and the delicate skin around the eye to brighten and lift.
Last but not least, a skincare routine is completed with a moisturiser. The key to finding one that is right for you is knowing your skin type: oily, dry or combination. Our Infinite by Forever Restoring Crème is part of the Infinite by Forever range, which was the Editor’s Choice at the Beauty Shortlist Awards in 2018. With over fifteen skin conditioning ingredients, Infinite Restoring Crème absorbs fast and combines skin science and aloe with powerful botanicals including acai and pomegranate, and vitamin B3 to help even out skin tone and texture. For those with dry or maturing skin, use daily to help reinforce the skin’s natural barrier, replenish parched skin and further reduce the appearance of ageing.
For those with oily or combination skin Sonya Soothing Gel Moisturizer was a finalist at the Pure Beauty Global Awards in 2019, and won Silver at the Global Makeup Awards in 2021. This moisturiser is filled with botanicals and powerful ingredients for a moist and dewy complexion. It’s hydra-infused, gel-based formula balances the moisture of water/oils in the skin. Scientifically advanced collagen supports skin’s bounce.
The Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask has received six awards to-date! This mask is a super-hydrating formula which combines the power of aloe with seagrass, horse chestnut, green tea extract and coconut and acts a serum on your skin. Cooling and calming, it reduces the appearance of redness as it soothes the skin. For the first 15 minutes soaks, the serum from this ultra-hydrating mask soaks into your face and then for the last few minutes, this mask actually begins to break down into your skin. The actual biodegradable mask fits every contour of the face and allows the serum to absorb more deeply to moisturise and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Encourage your customers to swap out old skincare products in their routines with one from our award-winning skincare this holiday. Or give a quality gift this year and mention in a card the awards the product has received as many of these skincare items can be added to what someone is already using.
Give your skin the love it deserves with Forever Marine Collagen. With collagen, vitamins and a cocktail of essential nutrients for the body, Forever Marine Collagen inspires your body...
Give your skin the love it deserves with Forever Marine Collagen. With collagen, vitamins and a cocktail of essential nutrients for the body, Forever Marine Collagen inspires your body to be its best at every age, and to embrace your day with confidence.
With Forever Marine Collagen, a product that combines key nutrients and premium hydrolysed collagen, you can enjoy the appearance of luminous, youthful and smooth skin you desire, and experience glossy hair, beautiful nails, regained tone and an incredible glow. No need for that filter. It’s time to get back to you.
What can nutritional supplements do for you? With autumn fast approaching, and the world settling into a new form of normal, we are turning our attentions to keeping healthy and supporting our bodie...
People are drawn to the outdoors. During those long, sun-filled days of summer, we can’t wait to get out and enjoy a day at the park, a hike in the woods or a trip to the beach. But the joy that bein...
People are drawn to the outdoors. During those long, sun-filled days of summer, we can’t wait to get out and enjoy a day at the park, a hike in the woods or a trip to the beach.
But the joy that being outside brings into our lives offers more than just the fleeting happiness that comes with the scent of the flowers or the feeling of grass between your toes. Incorporating the outdoors into your life can improve your health in every way, both physically and emotionally – and there’s a lot of science out there that shows just how far the benefits can go.
Spending time outdoors, particularly in green spaces, positively impacts stress, blood pressure, mood and overall mental health. A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Health Research shows that spending as little as twenty minutes a day in a park or green space can improve wellbeing. Every day, scientists are discovering more about the impact nature has on our overall wellbeing, and while there’s plenty of research still to be done, what we do know should inspire you to get outside.
As a Forever Business Owner, you’ve probably experienced a broad range of Forever’s diverse product range. From skincare, to supplements and weight management to our flagship aloe drinking gels, there...
As a Forever Business Owner, you’ve probably experienced a broad range of Forever’s diverse product range. From skincare, to supplements and weight management to our flagship aloe drinking gels, there’s a lot of aloe to enjoy! While this is exciting, it can also be confusing when it comes to introducing new customers to the world of Forever. Which products should they try first? Which ones will help them see the amazing benefits they can experience with our products?
We think that our ‘Forever Favourites’ are a great place to start. These products are best sellers for a reason – they’re used daily by many people and can have a profound impact on people’s lives, most notably by taking the places of their old favourites. So here are some ideas for which products to introduce to your new customers, and why they work so well!
How vertical integration keeps Forever on the forefront of quality and technology. When Forever Living Products was founded in 1978, Founder and CEO Rex Maughan wanted to bring the highest quality al...
From Forever Aloe Vera Gels to Forever Bee Honey, you’re probably familiar by now with the range of consumable products that Forever stocks, each with their own individual health benefi...
From Forever Aloe Vera Gels to Forever Bee Honey, you’re probably familiar by now with the range of consumable products that Forever stocks, each with their own individual health benefits. But have you ever stopped to consider all the possible ways to use them?
We’ve started to create monthly Flavours of Forever and Shake of the Month videos for you, so that you can experience the true power of aloe in a variety of different recipes. These recipes are perfect whether you want to enjoy a healthful snack for yourself or want to introduce others to products in the Forever line up!
Watch Amelia talk you through our recipes for August, which will also feature in our August Brunch with Bob Parker show on 28th July 2021!
Did you know that mangoes are one of the most popular fruits in the world? So much so that 22nd July is dedicated to all thing’s mango, and in honour of National Mango Day we wanted to raise a glass o...
Did you know that mangoes are one of the most popular fruits in the world? So much so that 22nd July is dedicated to all thing’s mango, and in honour of National Mango Day we wanted to raise a glass of delicious Forever Aloe Mango goodness.
Mangoes are popular around the globe, becoming part of culture and history for many countries. Mango.org describes how mangoes were first grown in India more than 5,000 years ago, spreading throughout Asia and making their way to the Middle East, East Africa and South America around the time of 300 or 400 A.D.
It’s no secret that we love aloe, and whether you’re a Forever Business Owner or customer, we’re guessing you love it, too. With 59% of households in the UK owning some kind of pet, and 61% of all Iri...
It’s no secret that we love aloe, and whether you’re a Forever Business Owner or customer, we’re guessing you love it, too. With 59% of households in the UK owning some kind of pet, and 61% of all Irish households owning either a dog or cat, it’s clear our nations are big lovers of our furry friends.
And of course, that love of pets doesn’t stop at Forever. Forever is proud to partner with Leaping Bunny. The Leaping Bunny logo is an internationally recognised certification for cosmetics, personal care and household product brands which are not tested on animals. Forever is a global brand and displaying the Leaping Bunny logo allows us to assure our customers and Forever Business Owners across the globe of our commitment to not test on animals in any part of our supply chain.
And it doesn’t end there! As well as considering animal welfare, Forever also provides a range of products that are safe for animals to enjoy; so why don’t you discover the benefits of aloe through products that have the added advantage of being suitable for both you and your animals?
Aloe is the lifeblood of Forever, which is why this month we have decided to celebrate all things aloe vera. Aloe is an amazing plant, and did you know there are over 400 species? But there is only on...
Aloe is the lifeblood of Forever, which is why this month we have decided to celebrate all things aloe vera. Aloe is an amazing plant, and did you know there are over 400 species? But there is only one species that has been recognised for being particularly beneficial to humans and animals – Aloe Barbadensis Miller, which is known for its natural soothing, cooling and moisturising abilities, and it’s the only one we use here at Forever! We wanted to take a closer look at this incredible plant and all the benefits it can have.
The aloe vera plant has been known and used for centuries for its health, beauty, medicinal and skincare properties. In fact, examples of aloe vera have been found in Egyptian tombs, the Bible and in famous ancient Greek, Roman, Chinese and Indian herbals texts, and of course not forgetting Cleopatra! But what makes aloe so special? The inner leaf aloe gel from an Aloe Barbadensis Miller plant is beneficial for humans and animals when consumed as a drink or when used as a topical product, so what exactly can aloe do to support your lifestyle?
Summer is finally on its way, and as the weather (hopefully!) warms up, there is nothing like spending long lazy days at the beach. But the next question is what to take with you on your summertime ad...
Summer is finally on its way, and as the weather (hopefully!) warms up, there is nothing like spending long lazy days at the beach. But the next question is what to take with you on your summertime adventure? There’s an art to packing the perfect beach bag. The key is having the right balance of items that will enhance the fun without weighing you down. To create your ultimate beach bag, bring those things you can’t live without, a few luxury items to make the most of your experience and nothing that’s just going to take up space and get in the way! Here are out tips for creating the ultimate beach bag:
BEACH BLANKET AND SUNSHADE
The days of lugging around a bulky umbrella for sun protection are over. Instead, opt for a lightweight, packable sunshade. A search on Amazon will reveal several options that pack down small, weigh less and set up easily to provide a canopy of sun protection. A lightweight beach blanket is perfect to spread out on and won’t add bulk to your bag.
SUNGLASSES AND SUN HAT
Sunglasses and a good wide-brimmed hat will help keep the glare out of your eyes, and provide some shade for your head, neck and shoulders when you’re up and walking around. You don’t want to spend the day squinting when a great pair of shades and a nice hat will keep you feeling and looking great.
DRINKING WATER AND SNACKS
Staying hydrated is crucial when you’re out in the sun. Be sure to pack plenty of water and sip on it throughout the day. Try freezing half a bottle the night before, and fill it up the rest of the way with water before you leave to keep it cool for longer. Mixed nuts or energy bars, like Forever Fast Break, make for great snacks that will keep you energised without taking up too much space.
WIPES
After a few hours of sweat, sand, sunscreen and saltwater, you’ll be grateful to have some wet, biodegradable wipes on hand. These will help you feel clean and refreshed before you drive back into town or stop to grab a meal on the way home.
MOISTURISER
Spending time in the sun depletes your skin’s moisture. You don’t have to wait until you get home to restore hydration to your skin. Pack a tube of Forever’s Aloe Moisturizing Lotion to bring back moisture and softness, and don’t forget to bring Aloe Gelly, just in case you need to soothe your skin after a bit too much fun in the sun.
WATERPROOF SUNSCREEN
It’s no secret that you need a good waterproof sunscreen to keep you from getting burned, but not just any old tube will do the trick. Forever’s Aloe Sunscreen is made with natural zinc oxide and aloe vera to offer superior protection while keeping skin feeling soothed and moisturised. This SPF 30 formula protects against UVA and UVB rays and is water resistant for up to 80 minutes. Aloe Sunscreen is also made with reef safe ingredients so you can spend more time in the water without damaging the ocean’s fragile ecosystem.
HAND SANITISER
No adventure would be complete without your handy bottle of hand sanitiser. Forever Instant Hand Sanitizer encourages you to get the most out of your everyday life without compromising your well-being, and that of your loved ones. The effective aloe-based formula kills 99.9% of bacteria, and leaves your hands feeling clean and refreshed in an instant. Powerful and refreshing, Forever Instant Hand Sanitizer will keep the whole family protected, wherever the adventure leads..
We hope this helps you make the most out of your summer fun, what are your beach bag must haves? Let us know in the comments. Aloe Life issue 10 features this, and more fantastic articles to help you get set for summer, including tips on how to fun your summer bucket list.
Whether it’s the new dad who lives on a tight budget, the dad who seems to have everything (who wants another pair of socks, eh?) or that someone in your life who feels like a dad, Forever has a wide...
Whether it’s the new dad who lives on a tight budget, the dad who seems to have everything (who wants another pair of socks, eh?) or that someone in your life who feels like a dad, Forever has a wide range of products for men and their skin needs this Father’s Day.
We have a wide variety of fantastic products that suit the ‘dads’ in your life. Here are some favourites with our Forever Business Owners:
Aloe and Avocado Soap is a rich, non-drying citrus scented soap perfect for when you want something simple yet effective. With all the skin benefits of aloe, the added avocado is rich in chlorophyll and fatty acids which brightens the appearance of the skin and adds moisture.
Men can use Forever’s Smoothing Exfoliator daily to assist with a closer shave. Sustainably sourced Korean bamboo extract is paired with jojoba beads to gently roll across the skin and remove dead skin cells. With lemon essential oil, bromelain (pineapple) and papain (papaya) extracts, these plants are rich in various beneficial vitamins providing exfoliation and skin loving nutrients.
Don’t forget the to nourish and soothe chapped and dry lips with our Aloe Lips. An essential during the months with more sun exposure, give one or maybe a few, to complement other Forever Products.
The newly launched Aloe-Jojoba Shampoo and Conditioner are fantastic for all hair types for everyday use. High in aloe and paired with non-greasy jojoba, it provides a deep clean and then a rich moisture treatment. We have found in our household that with its exquisite texture, a little goes along way which makes these new bottles seem to last and last.
Gentleman’s pride offers a light masculine fragrance with stabilised aloe vera gel and additional botanicals. Alcohol-free, the rosemary is known for reducing the appearance of pores while chamomile is ideal for soothing and hydrating the skin especially post shaving.
Though Aloe Propolis Creme is one of my favourite go-to body lotions, my husband uses this daily on dry areas of the skin. With the properties of cleansing bee propolis added to a jojoba and aloe base, this lotion goes deep into where moisture is needed most.
Everyone loves Awakening Eye Cream, a non-greasy treatment for the eyelids and under the eyes, as it helps reduce the appearance of puffiness, dark circles and fine lines. With additional patented peptides and added marine collagen, this small bottle packs a powerful punch in fighting the signs of premature ageing.
The award-winning Hydrating Serum is fantastic for an extra boost where extra moisture is needed. With its skin balancing properties of light shea butter and coconut butter fatty acids, Hydrating Serum has additional plant extracts that fight stresses to the skin such as white tea and mushroom extracts. This serum boosts hydration with four types of hyaluronic acid which help to seal moisture in and take hydration to deeper layers in the skin.
Give an extra treat of this multi-award winning Forever favourite Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask. My husband and teen son actually love the feel of the super hydrating green tea, seagrass and horse chestnut infused aloe-based mask. Perfect after a little too much sun, its cooling effect delivers nutrients deep into the skin and reduces the appearance of redness.
Whoever thought soap would become such a popular item over the last year? Forever Aloe Liquid Soap is more than average with its multi-purpose use. From a stable item by the kitchen sink, to a body wash in the shower to even a simple shampoo, this non-stripping soap gently washes away dirt with a light lather while boasting of argan oil that moisturises without clogging pores.
Whether it’s a barbecue or sitting outside at the pub, help protect delicate exposed areas of the skin with our SPF 30 Aloe Sunscreen which is rich in aloe’s hydrating properties.
Forever Alpha-E Factor is a hidden gem in the Forever legacy product family. As a skin vitamin oil, rich in A, C and E, this unique formula reduces the appearance of flaking and dehydration while softening and hydrating the skin. Many male Forever customers use this post shaving but also on vulnerable areas on top of the head that need extra moisture.
Men can use all of our Forever skin care products though some cater to specific needs and preferences. Young or mature, if that special dad in your life has never tried a Forever skin product, maybe even start with skincare basics such as Sonya Daily Gel Cleanser or Sonya Daily Gel Moisturiser. Whether you make a care basket (you could even throw in those new socks) or give a single item, these skincare products will be sure to be a hit this Father’s Day.
As spring has arrived and the summer months are fast approaching, it’s time for a little extra care for our skin. Forever Living offers two skincare ranges and an additional skincare line which sits b...
As spring has arrived and the summer months are fast approaching, it’s time for a little extra care for our skin. Forever Living offers two skincare ranges and an additional skincare line which sits between the ranges to complement them. The Sonya Daily Skincare System is geared toward those with oily skin, which can feel sticky and prone to be troubled, or for those with combination skin which can fluctuate between oily, dry and normal. Infinite by Forever Advanced Skincare System is for those with dry skin, which can feel tight, course or flaky, and/or maturing skin that may show signs of ageing, like fine lines and wrinkles.
The Targeted line is strategically placed to sit in between Forever’s two skincare collections. Each Targeted product addresses different skin concerns and preferences, so you can find something that is suitable to your individual needs in your skincare routine.
It’s encouraged to have a consistent skincare routine, and that could include either Infinite or Sonya, but for adding ‘a little extra’, include one or more of the Targeted products. Here’s how they all work.
Should spring and summer come with a change in your skincare routine? When you are dreaming about your summer skin you may be envisioning a smooth, glowing complexion. But in reality the change of se...
Should spring and summer come with a change in your skincare routine? When you are dreaming about your summer skin you may be envisioning a smooth, glowing complexion. But in reality the change of seasons, and with it the change in temperature and humidity, can lead to fluctuations in your skin.
Sweat, sunburn, humidity, rain? Your skin goes through a lot due to the ever-changing British climate, and these conditions can all impact our skin. When your skin appears to be fluctuating it can be easy to think that you need a full skincare overhaul, but fear not. Sometimes you just need to figure out the exact concerns and target them with specific products depending on the issue you are tackling. Forever’s Targeted skincare supplements the rest of your skincare routine by targeting specific concerns, and even selecting just a few products from this range and incorporating them into our daily routine can help you to see a difference. Here are a few tips for tackling those seasonal skin worries.
Ever struggled with your skin even though you have a skincare routine in place already? Sometimes you need to figure out the exact concerns your skin has and target them with specific products to rea...
Ever struggled with your skin even though you have a skincare routine in place already? Sometimes you need to figure out the exact concerns your skin has and target them with specific products to really see a difference.
Forever’s Targeted skincare range does just that – it supplements the rest of your skincare routine by targeting specific concerns and working to make your skin looks and feels better! You might not necessarily need the entire range, but a select few products depending on the issues you’re trying to address. Here are some ways you can incorporate the products from the range into your own routine.
Meet the new look Aloe-Jojoba Shampoo and Conditioner. Our new look Aloe Jojoba Shampoo and Conditioner are now available to purchase! Give your hair the very best with...
Part 2 of Essential Oils Depending on the scent we choose to breathe in, they can transport, calm, or energise, which makes them a powerful tool for engaging the mind and body. Using Forever Ess...
Our skin works incredibly hard every day to protect our bodies from UV rays, harsh weather, injuries, pain and other external factors which cause stress. If you want to have great skin, it is crucial...
Our skin works incredibly hard every day to protect our bodies from UV rays, harsh weather, injuries, pain and other external factors which cause stress. If you want to have great skin, it is crucial that you make your skincare regime an essential part of your morning and evening routine so that the process becomes a habit that’s as frequent as brushing your teeth! In today’s world full of zoom meetings and video chats, healthy, vibrant skin is something we all want.
Here are a few tips for having Video Call Ready skin that will help not only boost your confidence, but also give a few practical tips on making your end of the call visually appealing. We will take a little longer on this first step as it is with your skin, the last four are just a few brief suggestions on lighting, position and other things to remember on a call.
After almost a year of lockdowns, disruption and uncertainty, we know that many people are suffering with their mental health – even those who may not have been before. It’s more important than ever t...
After almost a year of lockdowns, disruption and uncertainty, we know that many people are suffering with their mental health – even those who may not have been before. It’s more important than ever that we take the time to look after ourselves, even if it feels like a lot of mental effort.
In January, we tackled fitness head-on. Thousands of you kickstarted health goals with our Weight Management products, including our C9 and F15, and we don’t want to lose that momentum. But we thought we’d take a look at all of the other ways you can love your body this year, because sometimes it’s just as important to take a rest day as it is to power through.
Forever UK is pleased to announce that Forever Instant Hand Sanitizer is now available to buy. From Monday 8th February, Forever Instant Hand Cleanser has changed to For...
Forever UK is pleased to announce that Forever Instant Hand Sanitizer is now available to buy.
From Monday 8th February, Forever Instant Hand Cleanser has changed to Forever Instant Hand Sanitizer. This is due to the product’s registration changing from a cosmetic product to a biodide as there is evidence that the product is effective at killing germs and bacteria.
Powerful and refreshing, Forever Instant Hand Sanitizer kills 99.9% of bacteria, and is ideal for cleaning your hands quickly and effectively if soap and water are not available.
Essential to have at home and perfect when you are on the go.
When it comes to maintaining long-term weight management goals, it’s not enough to simply cut calories, restrict foods and rely on ongoing self-restraint. Have you ever put something on the ‘naughty l...
When it comes to maintaining long-term weight management goals, it’s not enough to simply cut calories, restrict foods and rely on ongoing self-restraint. Have you ever put something on the ‘naughty list’ of foods and found that it’s only made you want it more? That’s how we know that complete denial of foods is not sustainable long-term for most people. Not to mention the fact that even if you’re eating a healthy diet, there could still be nutrients missing that can prevent you from meeting your health goals!
We want you to focus on healthy habits that you can really stick to – like balancing your diet and learning to make intuitive choices about your food and supplements.
AMELIA’S SIMPLE SALMON – C9 recipe This lemon roasted salmon with sweet potatoes and broccolini is so simple to prepare, and makes the perfect delicious and healthy dinner. Serves 1 113g salmon...
2021. The start of a brand-new year, and let’s face it, after last year who doesn’t want to make a strong and positive start to the New Year? January is the time for a fresh start, a clean slate and...
2021. The start of a brand-new year, and let’s face it, after last year who doesn’t want to make a strong and positive start to the New Year? January is the time for a fresh start, a clean slate and a recommitment to our goals, so with that in mind, some of us here at Head Office have decided to give ourselves a kickstart to getting fit and healthy in 2021 with our Head Office C9 Challenge.
From 11th January, join me – Amelia – along with Rachel, Lorraine and Vanessa, as we navigate through the programme, and watch our vlogs as we share our (honest) experiences with you.
Vitamins C, B2, B6 and B12 help to reduce tiredness and fatigue
Vitamins C, B6, B12 can all be found in Forever Therm
Niacin and pantothenic acid support normal energy yielding metabolism
Vitamin B6 assists with normal protein metabolism and the regulation of hormones
Riboflavin supports normal iron metabolism
Folic acid helps with healthy amino acid synthesis
Forever Garcinia Plus contains chromium which contributes to normal macronutrient metabolism
Vitamin C for protection of cells from oxidative damage
Vitamin B2 contributes to protection of DNA, proteins and lipids from oxidative damage
Pantothenic acid for normal mental performance
Forever Lite Ultra contains protein which contributes to the maintenance of and growth in muscle mass
Vitamin C, B12 and folic acid helps support health immune function
Forever’s aloe vera drinking gels contain up to 99.7% pure aloe. Aloe vera helps support immune function
Thiamine contributes to normal heart function
Forever Fiber is designed for digestive health since it’s high in fibre and low in saturated fat
Forever’s aloe vera drinking gels contain up to 99.7% pure aloe. Aloe vera is a brilliant digestive aid that aids the cleansing process
Most Forever business owners start by developing a strong retail base often as a result of their passion for the products and a genuine desire to share them with others. As confidence grows and they...
Most Forever business owners start by developing a strong retail base often as a result of their passion for the products and a genuine desire to share them with others. As confidence grows and they start seeing a profit as their customer base becomes established, for some it becomes natural to think about developing a team.
Talking about the Forever business opportunity is only daunting when the focus is on the result; a new team member rather than the process. What’s important is to retain the integrity that you displayed in building your retail base, and an authentic desire to help others.
You may have seen our blog post from a few months ago in which we talked about figuring out your skincare routine and which products you should reach for depending on your particular skincare needs....
You may have seen our blog post from a few months ago in which we talked about figuring out your skincare routine and which products you should reach for depending on your particular skincare needs. Since our Hydrating Serum came along, you may be wondering whereabouts this sits in your routine as a whole and how to maximise the benefits of all of your skincare products just by including this new product into your day.
You may have spotted that the brand-new Hydrating Serum in our Targeted skincare range contains an ingredient called hyaluronic acid. If this word is new to you, it may sound a little intimidating at...
You may have spotted that the brand-new Hydrating Serum in our Targeted skincare range contains an ingredient called hyaluronic acid. If this word is new to you, it may sound a little intimidating at first – ‘hyaluronic acid? Why on Earth would I want an acid anywhere near my skin?’
Don’t worry - contrary to the name, hyaluronic acid (HA) is not an acid. It’s actually your best friend for skin plumping as it acts like a moisture magnet and is able to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. The scientific sounding name might lead you to believe that it’s artificial but in fact hyaluronic acid is sugar molecule that occurs naturally in the body. HA levels tend to fall as we age or if we are subjected to environmental aggressors, such as pollution, so it makes sense to look for a serum containing hyaluronic acid if we are keen to age well or if we live in urban environments.
When we add hyaluronic acid to skincare products, its humectant properties draw moisture into the skin, helping to combat dryness and dullness and restoring elasticity. Improving the water content of skin strengthens its barrier, calms irritation and plumps out fine lines.
What many people don’t realise is that there is more than one type of HA. HAs come in various molecular sizes; smaller molecules can penetrate deeper into the skin to deliver their hydrating benefits while large molecules stay on the surface giving the skin a ‘dewy’ look.
Forever’s new Hydrating Serum is a powerhouse of hyaluronic acid containing FOUR different types, which work together to replenish water on the surface of skin and retain moisture from the inside, whilst also improving elasticity and resulting in the appearance of visibly plump skin.
This means that Forever’s Hydrating Serum will help your skin feel plump and hydrated while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and providing an added layer of protection against environmental stressors. Definitely a skincare hero, in our books.
Have you ever used a Hyaluronic Acid in your skincare routine before?
We are loving trying out our brand-new Hydrating Serum! Whilst we might not be escaping on tropical holidays this year, the hot and humid weather we have been experiencing recently has been making u...
We are loving trying out our brand-new Hydrating Serum!
Whilst we might not be escaping on tropical holidays this year, the hot and humid weather we have been experiencing recently has been making us feel like we are sunning ourselves on faraway sands. Given the temperature, we have been making sure that we are staying hydrated, especially our skin. And what better way than our brand-new Hydrating Serum!
This fabulous new serum envelops your skin in silky moisture, and is a powerhouse of hyaluronic acid, containing four types which help to seal moisture in and take hydration to deeper layers in the skin. You can find out more about the types of hyaluronic acid in our blog here, where our Beauty and Skincare Trainer, Jeannie McGinnis explains the differences and benefits of this hero skincare ingredient.
In additional to its ultra-hydrating hyaluronic acid, it also uses ingredients from around the globe to moisturise and protect including pure aloe vera, and coconut fatty acids which help to spread the serum easily over skin. As part of our Targeted skincare line, this formula applies easily, absorbs quickly, and fits seamlessly into your skincare routine.
But don’t just take our word for it, take a look below at some of the fantastic feedback we have received from our FBOs so far.
Ann Robertson – ‘After just a week I could feel the difference in my skin, and the more I’ve used it the difference is unbelievable, my skin is glowing! That’s when I realised my skin looked so fresh and that’s when I decided to switch to Forever skincare and dump my usual skincare.’
Fiona Townsend – ‘Absolutely love this serum. So hydrating and light, it goes with me everywhere!’
Amarah Campbell – ‘I’ve never used a serum before until now and I absolutely love it! It makes my skin really soft and my skin feels like velvet! I love how quickly it absorbs into the skin, definitely a great addition to my skincare routine.’
Alison Willie – ‘Wouldn’t be without my serum now! I layer it under the Infinite Restoring Crème and my skin feels AMAZING!’
Nuala Harwood – ‘Love our new Hydrating Serum… it smells so good too!’
Alison Moore – ‘Never before have I tried a product and instantly noticed the benefits. This serum is so gentle, fresh, yet powerful in its job; hydrating and creating a more youthful fresh looked.’
Natasha Leanne Holmes – ‘Love my new Hydrating Serum for wonderful, soft, luxurious skin. I’ve seen such a difference in my skin, and it smells gorgeous!’
Sue Barker – ‘I adore the new Hydrating Serum. Fabulously light and so easy to apply. Brilliantly hydrating and so pleased it has white tea included too.’
This month, we want to celebrate the things that people love most about Forever, including our top selling products - or ‘Forever favourites’ as we like to call them. Aloe vera has powerful benefits...
This month, we want to celebrate the things that people love most about Forever, including our top selling products - or ‘Forever favourites’ as we like to call them.
Aloe vera has powerful benefits that help you to look better and feel better both inside and out – in fact, it’s been known and used for centuries for its health, beauty, medicinal and skincare properties: it was even Cleopatra’s favourite beauty product, used to keep her skin and hair looking radiant!
From aiding in digestion to soothing and conditioning the skin, pure inner leaf aloe vera gel is at the heart of everything we do at Forever, and it’s no surprise that our Forever favourites feature the ingredient in abundance!
We’ll kick off with our incredible flagship product: the amazing Forever Aloe Vera Gel! Certified by the International Aloe Science Council for its purity, this drinking gel is as close to the real thing as you can get, boasting 99.7% inner leaf aloe gel, lovingly extracted by hand so that you can experience the true power of nature. We’ve also added vitamin C which contributes to the normal function of the immune system and to a normal energy-yielding metabolism, so that you can kick your day off with a brilliant burst of sunshine and goodness, even if it’s gloomy outside!
And we don’t stop there: we have three more fantastic aloe vera gels waiting to tickle your taste buds.
Forever Aloe Berry Nectar provides a sweet yet tangy flavour with its burst of cranberry and sweet apple, while still containing vitamin C and a whopping 90.7% pure inner leaf aloe vera gel.
Forever Aloe Peaches is the sweetest of them all, with natural peach puree to give it a real taste of summer! Popular with kids and those with a sweet tooth, Forever Aloe Peaches contains 84.3% pure inner leaf aloe vera gel and vitamin C.
Finally, Forever Freedom is the aloe gel most popular with those who lead an active lifestyle. It comes with all the benefits of our plain gel, but with added glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM – and a refreshing orange flavour, too. Stock up with the brand-new Forever Freedom tripack to be sure you never run out!
But let’s take a look at some of the benefits our topical Forever favourite products have, and why so many people love them!
Forever Bright Toothgel
Created for the entire family – as well as your pets – this gentle, non-fluoride formula contains only the highest quality ingredients including aloe vera and bee propolis. Its natural mint flavour will leave your mouth refreshed and your teeth clean!
Aloe Ever-Shield Deodorant
The aloe vera formula in this gentle deodorant contains no alcohol or harsh aluminium salts usually found in antiperspirant deodorants and can even be used to soothe after underarm shaving and waxing.
Aloe Lips
This loaded lip product contains aloe, jojoba and three types of wax to smooth and soothe chapped, dry lips all-year round!
Aloe Scrub
Unlike some scrubs that use plastic microbeads, we use microspheres of jojoba which roll over your skin gently. As they roll, they pick up the dead skin cells that clog up pores and cause skin to look dull. Gentle enough for everyday use for your face or body, the natural ingredients exfoliate and reveal healthy-looking skin.
Aloe-Jojoba Shampoo and Conditioning Rinse
It’s easy to get beautifully shiny and easy-to-manage hair with this aloe vera and jojoba oil-infused shampoo and conditioner combo. The ingredients in the shampoo remove oils while simultaneously soothing your scalp, while the conditioning rinse contains jojoba and vitamin B to help nourish, protect and strengthen hair. The gentle pH-balanced formula in both products makes them suitable for all hair types and can be used to help replenish your hair’s natural moisture, give your hair extra shine and help to eliminate split ends.
Aloe Hand Soap
Formulated from pure 100% stabilised aloe vera gel and natural cleansers, this gentle formula with fruit extracts leaves your skin feeling clean, soft and hydrated.
Aloe Propolis Creme
A rich, creamy blend of aloe vera, bee propolis and camomile that helps maintain healthy, beautiful skin tone and texture. The Aloe Propolis Creme’s moisturising and conditioning properties make for an excellent everyday moisturiser and helps to soothe irritation.
Aloe Vera Gelly
If there was an award for ‘most versatile product’ this one might just be the winner: essentially identical to the aloe vera’s inner leaf, this topical thick gel soothes and calms irritation and is great anywhere from the first aid kit to the after sun skincare bag!
Aloe Heat Lotion
Containing warming agents and aloe, this rich emollient lotion provides blissful relief from everyday stresses and strains and can be great when applied before exercise or for soothing aches after a workout!
What is your ‘Forever favourite’? We’d love to know in the comments why you love it so much!
Veganuary (a.k.a. Vegan January) is upon us and apparently this year over 350,000 people have signed up to go Vegan for the month! If you were one of those people, congratulations on making it so far...
Veganuary (a.k.a. Vegan January) is upon us and apparently this year over 350,000 people have signed up to go Vegan for the month! If you were one of those people, congratulations on making it so far! We hope you’re having lots of interesting, diverse and delicious meals!
You’ll be pleased to know that Forever Living is always cruelty-free and some of our products are vegan-friendly, including our three-flagship Aloe Vera Gels and some of our supplements such as our Forever Fiber, Forever B12 (a vegan staple!) and Forever Lean.
But we wanted to go one step further and help you to incorporate our vegan products into some delicious vegan recipes to really kickstart your January!
A brand-new year and a brand-new decade! As the festive season draws to a close for another year and we welcome 2020; we are bracing ourselves for the inevitable onslaught of New Year’s resolutions....
A brand-new year and a brand-new decade! As the festive season draws to a close for another year and we welcome 2020; we are bracing ourselves for the inevitable onslaught of New Year’s resolutions. Many of these will feature a pledge to be healthier in some way, and despite our intentions, many of us will undoubtedly fall off the wagon. This year, we wanted to try something a little different.
As they’re our top selling products, during the month of January we want to see how far around the world we can share the love for our aloe vera drinking gels. We want you to post a photo of your favourite Forever Aloe Vera Gel in front of your favourite place in your hometown, iconic location, or somewhere on your travels, and share on social media using the hashtag #AloeAroundTheWorld. As well as helping us to spread the aloe goodness you could also be in with a chance of winning some fantastic custom Forever gear.
Planted, tended and harvested by hand, our aloe is lovingly nurtured and grown before being gently stabilised in a special, patented process, all mere hours after being harvested in order to provide you with the freshest and most pure aloe vera based products possible. Our Aloe Vera Drinking Gel is as close to nature as you can get with 99.7% pure inner-leaf aloe, and our other popular formulas, Forever Aloe Berry Nectar and Forever Aloe Peaches combine the benefits of pure aloe vera with delicious berry and peach flavours, so what better way to get your year off to a healthier start then by sharing these fantastic gels around the world!
Running from 1st – 31st January 2020, this Global campaign will operate predominantly on social media, so make sure you keep an eye on our Head Office’s platforms, particularly Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to see all the beautiful places that our Forever gels are pictured in, and to submit your entry.
Each week we will be selecting one entry to receive some custom Forever gear, and a final winner will be selected on 31st January 2020. Each photo submission counts as one entry, and all photos much be unique and original. Any photos that have been photoshopped or stolen from a third-party will be disqualified. Official rules for this campaign can also be found at foreverliving.com/aloearoundtheworld under Social Contest Rules.
There’s no time like the New Year to start re-evaluating your habits and resetting your health goals. 2020 presents not only a new year but a brand-new decade of opportunity to kick-start healthy habi...
There’s no time like the New Year to start re-evaluating your habits and resetting your health goals. 2020 presents not only a new year but a brand-new decade of opportunity to kick-start healthy habits and get yourself back on track.
While you may be fully in the throes of holiday spirit at the moment, we thought we’d inform you of a few trends set to be big next year, so you can start thinking about how you want to change your life for the better come 1st January!
Bob Parker is Forever’s country manager of the UK, Ireland and Iceland. As part of his role, he travels extensively, supporting the regular training sessions that are held around the UK and Ireland, a...
Bob Parker is Forever’s country manager of the UK, Ireland and Iceland. As part of his role, he travels extensively, supporting the regular training sessions that are held around the UK and Ireland, as well as presenting at the company’s Success Day events, which recognise Forever Business Owners’ achievements. Bob spends a large part of his time interacting with Forever Business Owners plus has over 25 years of experience in network marketing himself, so is well placed to comment on the skills and qualities necessary for success in the network marketing industry.
According to Bob, those who thrive in network marketing share many common traits, including:
Millennials refers to people born between around 1980 and the mid-1990’s who are people now in their young adulthood, roughly aged between 25 and 34. According to Statista, 12 million millennials live...
Millennials refers to people born between around 1980 and the mid-1990’s who are people now in their young adulthood, roughly aged between 25 and 34. According to Statista, 12 million millennials lived in the United Kingdom in 2018 and they will shortly become the largest age demographic group in the UK overall with 35% of the global workforce being dominated by millennials.
In terms of their careers, one in five young people have two or more jobs and on average, millennials stay within a given role for a maximum of three years, meaning they are always on the lookout for new opportunities. Having been shaped by the technology revolution that saw computers, tablets and the web become central to work and life, they prioritise culture, career growth and are challenging the job world more than ever before. But aside from this, millennials put a priority on jobs that offer flexibility – so what could these be?
When you consider the fact that you only have one pair of eyes your entire life and that poor vision can make it harder to read, drive and many other things we take for granted on a day-to-day basis,...
When you consider the fact that you only have one pair of eyes your entire life and that poor vision can make it harder to read, drive and many other things we take for granted on a day-to-day basis, it becomes apparent just how important it is to take care of your eye health.
Today is World Sight Day, an annual awareness day which focuses global attention on blindness and visual impairment. In honour of this day, we’ve rounded up some top tips for looking after your eye health. Whether you’re blessed with perfect vision or already wear glasses or contact lenses on a daily basis, why not put a few of these things into practice to minimise the pressure you’re putting on your eyes?
Bees can be found on every continent except Antarctica and there are around 20,000 known species. We all have preconceptions about bees that have been assigned to all species, yet in actual fact there...
Bees can be found on every continent except Antarctica and there are around 20,000 known species. We all have preconceptions about bees that have been assigned to all species, yet in actual fact there are seven biological families of bees and they all behave and survive completely differently. So, that fuzzy little guy enjoying your flowers in the summer may actually have very little in common with the bee making the honey for your morning porridge.
To know why bees are so important to the environment, it’s important to first know the types of bees and their differences. Then you will know how they fit in in their environment and what you can do to help them thrive.
What are the different types of bees?
There are seven recognised biological families: Andrenidae, Apidae, Colletidae, Halictidae, Megachilidae, Melittidae and Stenotritidae. Apidae is the largest family of bees, including many of the most recognisable bees like bumblebees and honey bees. Interestingly, many of the facts that you’ll have heard about bees, such as the idea that they make honey or that they die if they sting you, come from the honey bee.
Many other species don’t share these attributes at all. For instance, when a honey bee stings a person with its barbed stinger, the stinger pulls out several of its internal organs with it. This is what kills a honey bee when it stings you. However, a bumblebee has no such issue with a barbed stinger, so it can sting you as many times as it wants. Although if you’re not bothering it, this is unlikely.
The most common types of bees you’ll see in the UK are bumblebees, honey bees, mining bees and mason bees. So, what exactly do these bees do to help the environment?
Pollinate, pollinate, pollinate
If you think back to your school science lessons, you’ll remember that flowering plants need to be pollinated in order to reproduce. This process can happen by wind-pollination or insect-pollination. Wind-pollinated plants produce lots of pollen grains as more are likely to be lost during the process, whereas insect-pollinated plants have sticky or spiky pollen which sticks to the insects when they land on the flower. They then take this pollen with them to the next flower and the next flower, pollinating along the way. Insect-pollinated plants are generally brightly coloured to attract the hard-working insects and they also have nectar and a scent which appeals to them, too.
Again, there’s a misconception that honey bees do a large proportion of the pollination, but actually, because they visit so many different types of flowers, the pollen they leave on each new flower might not even be the right type. Honey bees, usually from managed hives, are responsible for pollinating around 5-15% of the UK’s insect-pollinated crops, which leaves 85-95% relying on wild pollinators like other species of bees, moths, butterflies, hoverflies, flies and beetles.
Bumblebees, for example, are particularly good at pollinating complex flowers such as the ones on legume plants and tend to favour one species of flower at a time, making them much more savvy pollinators. This free service our bees provide is truly vital to us, because if we were to take on this mammoth task ourselves it would cost us an estimated £1.8 billion every year.
How can you help the honey bees?
Although most honey bees now survive in managed hives rather than out in the wild, other bee species are not necessarily so lucky. The European Red List for Bees shows that nearly one in ten species of wild bees are facing extinction in addition to the three bumblebee species that have become extinct in recent decades. So, what can you do to help all the different types of bees?
One way to help is to plant bee-friendly plants in your garden. This doesn’t have to be a hard task, either. Wildflowers are great for bees, and easy to maintain as they require little water and effort once planted, yet they will bring lots of bright colours to your garden. Plus, you can be pretty confident that they will bring bees into your garden and provide those bees with a great source of both pollen and nectar.
Also, if you’re a fan of bee products, you should buy them from companies that are careful to ensure the bees are able to prosper. For instance, our Forever Bee Honey comes from hives that are carefully managed to ensure that the hive is safe and healthy.
Another way to help the bees is to create your own bee hotel for your garden. It’s important to create bee-friendly spaces to restore their lost habitats and to help the bee population thrive. And if you’re really keen, you could become a backyard honey beekeeper!
How are you helping the bees? Tell us in the comments!
It’s become a bit of a buzz word in recent times, but sustainability is so important in today’s day and age. The actual word means an ability to be maintained at a certain level, but it’s generally u...
It’s become a bit of a buzz word in recent times, but sustainability is so important in today’s day and age. The actual word means an ability to be maintained at a certain level, but it’s generally used in environmental terms. Whether you believe the threats of climate change or not, it’s important to consider your impact on the environment.
Nobody wants to live on a planet with more landfill plastic than animals. Nor would we want the ocean to swallow up any more of our low-lying islands – house prices are getting high enough as it is! So, here’s a few ways you can lessen your impact on the environment, choosing eco-friendly packaging and sustainable products, to prevent those worst-case scenarios.
Re-use and recycle
We all know it’s better to recycle wherever possible and to avoid single use plastics in favour of items you can use over and over again. But, how often are you actively choosing recyclable cartons and packaging over their, sometimes much cheaper, friends?
Did you know that the vast majority of Forever’s product packaging is recyclable? In 2018, we also launched tetra pak packaging for our Forever Aloe Vera Gel, Forever Aloe Berry Nectar and Forever Aloe Peaches products. This packaging is made from six layers of 100% recyclable materials, so you know you’re making a sustainable decision. You can even find out where to recycle the packaging on their website.
Use your car less
It’s often a convenient choice to just jump in the car and pop to the shops but consider whether you actually needed to drive that journey. Perhaps there’s a shop you could walk to in order to get what you need, or maybe you could tie it in with another journey that takes you past the supermarket. Many of us join the gym to keep fit and healthy, but have you considered that you might save on cash and your carbon footprint if you ditched the car more and just walked? It may not always make sense to walk your journey, but it’s always worth some consideration before you head out.
Conserve water
Whether its’s something small, like turning off the tap while you’re brushing your teeth, or something bigger, like switching to a reduced-water shower head, there are so many ways that you can conserve water.
You can also look for products from companies that are actively trying to save water in their manufacturing process. For instance, the water used for washing aloe leaves on Forever’s plantations is re-used three times before it is pumped to a holding pond or reservoir where it can be used to irrigate the aloe fields. With this and many other new processes we’ve put in place, we’ve managed to reduce water usage by 90% at our plantations.
Save the trees (and aloe plants)
If you’ve done any research into sustainable living and sustainable products recently, you will have come across articles about sustainable forestry. Vast forests and jungles are being destroyed to keep up with the demand for wood and paper-based products, but a sustainable forest is carefully planned to plant trees as they are felled.
Most people know that trees are important to the environment, because they turn C02 into oxygen, but were you aware that twenty aloe plants can covert the same amount of C02 into oxygen as a tree? With 50 million aloe plants, Forever’s aloe crops are able to cleanse the earth of hundreds of millions of tons of CO2 every single year.
Protect the bees
Without bees, an estimated three-quarters of plants that produce 90% of food crops would go unpollinated. That’s an awful lot of food that wouldn’t exist without bees and where would we be without it? That’s why it’s important when you’re buying bee products to make sure the produce is collected in a sustainable way.
Bees produce many substances, but one of the most important to the hive is royal jelly. This is fed to the queen bee, helping her to produce thousands of eggs daily, but it’s also given to larvae in their first few days. Royal jelly is collected in cups by worker bees. In order to make Forever Royal Jelly, Forever creates imitation ‘queen cups’ in a small colony of young bees; these bees will then instinctively fill the cups with royal jelly. The process requires close attention and precise timekeeping, but it allows us to harvest this amazing substance without harming any bees.
Put on a jumper
Getting a bit chilly now the temperature is turning? Invest in a couple of warm, woolly jumpers and some thick socks and try to keep your hand away from that thermostat dial. The less you can use your central heating, the better for the environment.
Give your money to companies that give back
As a consumer, one of the best ways to be sustainable is to look for companies that give back. Whether that’s using sustainable products, eco-friendly packaging or promoting the idea of sustainable living. Many companies do this through their manufacturing processes, but more still are starting to give back in other ways. For instance, some toilet roll companies plant a tree when a certain number of packs have been bought to replace the trees they’ve used in their manufacturing process. This is a great way to know that by purchasing your weekly groceries, you are committing to being sustainable and helping the environment.
There’s never going to be an exhaustive list of all the ways you can embrace a sustainable life, but these are starting points. Every little thing you do will make a difference, so anywhere is a good place to start!
How will you become a more conscious shopper? Let us know in the comments!
We’re all leading busy lifestyles and feeling the stresses and strains of everyday life, which is why we love National Spa Week. But sometimes taking time out to visit a spa – or even having the budg...
We’re all leading busy lifestyles and feeling the stresses and strains of everyday life, which is why we love National Spa Week. But sometimes taking time out to visit a spa – or even having the budget to do so – can prevent a lot of people from feeling the benefits.
That’s why we’re celebrating this National Spa Week by transforming our humble home bathroom into a luxury spa-like retreat with just a few accessories and some of our favourite health, beauty and skincare products. Curious to know how to take your home bathroom from drab to fab? Take a look at our tips below.
The beauty industry has taken a more holistic approach than ever before and is paying close attention to ingredients including pure honey. You may not know it yet, but honey’s benefits go beyond sweet...
The beauty industry has taken a more holistic approach than ever before and is paying close attention to ingredients including pure honey. You may not know it yet, but honey’s benefits go beyond sweetening up your morning porridge or warm cup of tea - there are also plenty of beauty uses of honey on your face, body and even in your hair, which we are looking forward to trying here at Forever Living UK.
So, you’re back living in the British climate again after your holiday. It may feel like summer is nearly over, that the hard-earned tan you’ve spent hours perfecting will start to fade from the mome...
So, you’re back living in the British climate again after your holiday. It may feel like summer is nearly over, that the hard-earned tan you’ve spent hours perfecting will start to fade from the moment you step off the plane, but we’re here to show you how you can hold onto that summer tan for as long as possible.
Skin, it follows you wherever you go and will always remain a core part of you; it can give you confidence or steal it away in an instance, and it protects your cells and organs beneath the surface f...
Skin, it follows you wherever you go and will always remain a core part of you; it can give you confidence or steal it away in an instance, and it protects your cells and organs beneath the surface from coming to harm. Your skin really is amazing and deserves to be treated with the upmost respect. You are responsible for its wellbeing, but well looked-after skin will pay off in the future so it’s important that you do what you can now to ensure it stays well protected. That’s why we decided to explore some of the best ways to protect your skin in and out of the sun this august…
The August weather here in the UK may have been a bit unpredictable so far, but it’s peak travel season which means many members of the public are likely to escape to a tropical destination that guar...
The August weather here in the UK may have been a bit unpredictable so far, but it’s peak travel season which means many members of the public are likely to escape to a tropical destination that guarantees hours of sunshine. Last year the UK population totalled 71.7 million trips abroad and, according to Abta, 40% of these were beach holidays!
The beach and sun-exposed skin go hand-in-hand which means it’s essential that appropriate skincare is adopted both during the day and after sun-down. You can read up about appropriate sun protection here, but today we want to talk to you about your after sun care, and we believe that the only product you need is Aloe Vera Gelly. Here’s five benefits that’ll make this summer skin care product number one on your list…
It has cooling benefits
Even with decent sun protection, your skin can feel hot and bothered after a day spent sitting in the sun. A pink-red glow to the skin that’s warm to touch and even a little bit tender needs cooling right down and a healthy blob of Aloe Vera Gelly will do the trick. This lubricating after sun gel is enriched with the natural beneficial power of aloe, a plant that is colloquially referred to as the ‘burn plant’ thanks to its ability to soothe irritated skin.
It has skin conditioning benefits
Slathering on after sun gel may be a great solution when your skin’s feeling a tad sizzled but if what you’re using isn’t beneficial for the skin itself, you might as well have just sat in an icy bath!
It will care for your skin
It’s soothing, it’s conditioning and it cares for your skin! When your skin needs a little extra care and attention, the thick, translucent aloe gel captured in every tube of Aloe Vera Gelly is what it’s crying out for. Aloe vera carries the same pH as balanced skin, which means this gel, which is naturally high in aloe, is perfect for safely lubricating sensitive tissue and giving your skin the benefits it deserves. But it’s not just the skin it’s kind to: Aloe Vera Gelly has also been awarded the Leaping Bunny logo which means not a single one of its ingredients has been tested on animals. It’s also vegan-friendly and halal!
It is full of beneficial aloe vera goodness
Aloe vera is known to be naturally beneficial for skin but it’s products with a high percentage of pure inner leaf aloe that carry all the skin-loving goodness. Aloe Vera Gelly is rich in pure, inner leaf aloe vera gel; in fact, its ingredients list boasts 84% pure aloe which means it’s almost identical to an aloe vera plant’s inner leaf! Inner leaf aloe gel is the part of the leaf that carries the most nutrients and benefits for humans and animals, it’s what the ancient Egyptians – including Queen Cleopatra – used to bathe in to keep their skin looking youthful, and it’s what differentiates a high quality aloe product from the inferior sap-and-rind-heavy rivals on the market.
It's just an amazing after-sun gel
Cooling, conditioning, caring and aloe-rich – what more do you want from an after-sun gel? Well, I guess you want it to work! Aloe Vera Gelly will not let you down and when used liberally and frequently after your sunbathing sessions, its aloe vera benefits will soon get to work and rescue your skin from the dreaded peel, the annoying fade and the embarrassing bright scarlet tones that no-one can pull off!
Have you discovered the benefits of Aloe Vera Gelly as an after-sun? Let us know your experience in the comments.
It’s that time of year again – your annual summer holiday! According to ABTA a staggering 60% of the population have taken a holiday in the past 12 months, so it’s safe to say that more and more peopl...
It’s that time of year again – your annual summer holiday! According to ABTA a staggering 60% of the population have taken a holiday in the past 12 months, so it’s safe to say that more and more people are jetting off to sunnier climes each year. As you smile at the thought of endless sunshine, exotic cocktails and turquoise waters, you may also be dreading the journey that lies ahead. Travelling (and heat) can play havoc with your skin and hair, but the good news is there are some things you can do to ensure you arrive and stay at your destination looking fresh-faced and feeling revived. Make sure you pack these key beauty and wellness products from Forever Living to ensure you look and feel amazing, from take-off to touch down.
Forever Travel Kit
There is nothing more stressful than arriving at airport security only to realise your hand luggage is full of products over 100ml which haven’t been sorted into transparent bags! Save yourself the headache beforehand and take the Forever Travel Kit with you on your travels. The kit contains airline approved sizes of the Aloe Moisturizing Lotion, Aloe-Jojoba Shampoo, Aloe-Jojoba Conditioning Rinse and Forever Bright Toothgel. Problem solved!
Forever Aloe Vera Gel 330ml
As much as you may love your daily dose of aloe gel, no one wants to lug a big litre bottle around with them! Make sure you pack a few 330ml Forever Aloe Vera Gels in your suitcase before you set off on your travels. These handy, easy-to-carry drinks are perfect to take away on long weekends or longer breaks, and each one is packed with 99.7% pure inner leaf aloe gel.
Protecting Day Lotion and Aloe Sunscreen
Even though you’re on a plane and not outside, you still need SPF on your skin; the LED lights and windows during daytime flights can cause skin damage, too. In fact, according to The Journal of the American Medical Association plane windows stop about 99% of UVB rays, but only about half of UVA rays. Protecting Day Lotion is a unique daily moisturiser that contains SPF 20 and over twenty skin-conditioning ingredients, including aloe vera, to protect your face from UVA and UVB rays, while Aloe Sunscreen is a mineral sunscreen with SPF 30 and non-nanosized zinc oxide to offer you superior, broad-spectrum protection.
Forever Hand Sanitizer
This is a travel essential, especially if you are a bit of a germaphobe! Airports and planes are notoriously bad for their high levels of bacteria, which isn’t surprising given the high volumes of people that pass through them every day. Did you know that the tanks used to store water on airplanes can be a breeding ground for bacteria? A recent United States Environmental Protection Agency study found that 15 percent of the samples collected from 300 planes contained coliform bacteria and two samples tested positive for E.coli. That’s why it’s important to bring some hand sanitiser with you so that you can be sure you’re killing unwanted germs. Forever Hand Sanitizer is a great option because the high aloe content will leave your hands feeling soothed and soft.
Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask
Long flights can leave your skin feeling as if it’s been drained of moisture since the inside cabin of most commercial airplanes has a humidity level of 10 to 20 percent. That’s far lower than the 40 to 65 percent humidity found in most indoor climates! Drink plenty of water during your flight and when you reach your destination, unwind and replenish your skin’s lost moisture with Forever’s Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask. You’ll experience powerful hydration that gets in deep for a truly rejuvenating experience.
Aloe Vera Gelly
Our go-to product for August is definitely Aloe Vera Gelly – no holiday bag should be without this incredible product! When you’ve spent all day in the sunshine, whether you’ve been full-on tanning or roaming the streets between café stops, your skin has probably been exposed to high levels of UV rays, causing it to feel stressed and dry. After sun-down, bathe your skin in rich aloe goodness by slathering on layers of Aloe Vera Gelly. Thanks to 84% pure inner leaf aloe, this soothing gel makes for a great after-sun, adding moisture back into the skin while calming irritation.
N.B Please be aware that you will need to put any products that are over 100ml into smaller, transparent bottles if you wish to take these items onto the plane in your hand luggage.
While nutritional supplements should never replace a healthy, balanced diet, they can offer essential support, helping to plug any nutritional gaps that your diet may fail to fill. This month we’ve be...
While nutritional supplements should never replace a healthy, balanced diet, they can offer essential support, helping to plug any nutritional gaps that your diet may fail to fill. This month we’ve been encouraging you to mix your 330ml Forever Aloe Vera Gel with Argi+ and for a limited time we are selling a special Argi+ and Aloe Mini Tripack. We believe these products work together to give you powerful nutrition and just what you need to plug nutritional gaps this summer. Read on to find out how.
Whether you’re on a fitness journey or participate in regular physical activity, you will always need to increase the amount of fluid you consume in order to replace the water you lose as sweat. Plus...
Whether you’re on a fitness journey or participate in regular physical activity, you will always need to increase the amount of fluid you consume in order to replace the water you lose as sweat. Plus, it’s always a good idea to start any physical activity well hydrated and to drink at intervals during activity. This is where Forever’s new advanced nutrition of Argi+ and Forever Aloe Vera Gel comes in, a nutritional combo pack to help you look and feel better.
Vitamin C is a well-known vitamin that is commonly associated with oranges and good health. It’s often referred to as ascorbic acid on product packaging and since it’s water-soluble, it’s essential th...
Vitamin C is a well-known vitamin that is commonly associated with oranges and good health. It’s often referred to as ascorbic acid on product packaging and since it’s water-soluble, it’s essential that you consume enough of it each day. Water-soluble vitamins are not stored by the body like fat-soluble vitamins, and instead excess is expelled daily – that’s why it’s important to keep on top of vitamin C each day!
While vitamin C is known as the health nutrient, it’s also an essential vitamin for people who regularly exercise and hit the gym. We decided to explore how vitamin C can benefit your workout and what you can do to make sure you are getting enough.
How Can You Get Enough Vitamin C?
Different sources will tell you contrary information relating to the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamin C, but EU regulation states that adults aged 19 to 64 need 80mg per day. If you’re into your fruits and veggies, you’ll have no problem getting your RDA of vitamin C but since less than a third of adults in the UK manage to consume their five-a-day (according to a recent report from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey), it’s likely that you or someone you know needs to actively up their intake.
Most people have heard of scurvy but often incorrectly assume it’s an archaic disease that only affected the sailors and pirates who roamed the oceans decades ago. Actually, scurvy is very much prevalent in modern day society and between 2009 and 2014, hospital admissions relating to scurvy went up by 27%. Scurvy is caused by vitamin C deficiency and symptoms include tiredness, weakness and soreness in the arms and legs.
Consuming enough vitamin C is easily achievable but it does take careful planning. An orange will give you 70mg, but an apple will only give you 8mg so it’s essential that you choose your fruit wisely and do your research beforehand. Papaya, kiwis and mangoes are other good options, but tropical guavas win the vitamin C race, giving you a whooping 165mg in a single fruit!
If you regularly include a time of intense exercise in your day, you will certainly need to increase your vitamin C intake. EU regulators recommend consuming an additional 200mg on top of the RDI (80mg) in order to get more out of your vitamin C during and after exercise. This is obviously a considerable jump and if you struggled to get your five-a-day on an average afternoon, you are certainly going to struggle with this. Thankfully, supplementation can be of help here and if you’re not a fan of taking tablets then a vitamin C-infused drink could be the solution for you.
Argi+ is crammed with nutrients, including vitamin C, and we recommend mixing a sachet with 330ml of Forever Aloe Vera Gel. Together these two powerful beverages will give you 264.8mg of vitamin C, which means you’re only 15.2mg short. If you eat an orange or a couple of apples throughout the day as well, you’ll hit the 280mg target with ease.
Keeping Healthy With Vitamin C During A Workout
Exercise is of course good for you in so many ways but there is a darker side of the gym that may cause you to feel a little under the weather. Fitness equipment review website Fitrated recently investigated the hygiene standards of gym equipment across 27 different gyms, and rather disturbingly found that there were more than one million germs per square inch on each of the pieces of equipment they had gathered samples from. The bacterium strains they found were believed to put people at risk of skin, respiratory and ear infections and quite frankly if you’re going somewhere to get fit and healthy, this is the last thing you want to be exposed to.
But it’s not just the gym that can put your immune system at risk; any form of intense physical exercise can also compromise your immune system. Studies show that more than 90-minutes of high-intensity exercise can make you more susceptible to illnesses for up to 24 hours after that exercise session. This means you need to trigger operation illness prevention ASAP after exercising!
While it’s clear that antibacterial wipes are a must when going to the gym, it’s the vitamin C that can make a real difference. As already mentioned, you should increase your daily vitamin C intake to 280mg if you enjoy an intense workout session, and this is because the vitamin C will contribute to maintain the normal function of the immune system during and after intense physical exercise when consumed in this quantity. Doing what you can to prevent illness by equipping your immune system with the vitamins it needs to operate properly will help you to get the most out of exercise.
Vitamin C Assists Energy Levels
Whether you struggle to function first thing in the morning, you find yourself flagging mid-afternoon or you find your eyes drooping by 8pm (or all three of these scenarios), vitamin C could be the pick-me-up you need!
There’s nothing worse than having a pending workout hanging over you when you feel ready to hit the duvet, but because vitamin C contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, foods, drinks and supplements that are high in this nutrient can help give you what you need to power on through.
While tiredness can be relieved by sleep or rest, fatigue is not often resolved by such and as a result its affects can be quite overwhelming. Fatigue can be both physical and mental and it’s often made worse by long periods of inactivity. In fact, lack of physical activity can actually cause fatigue so if you have no other symptoms that are a cause for concern, pushing yourself to get out and exercise, even if it’s for a walk in the fresh air, is likely to do you some good. Grab a sports bottle filled with Argi+ mixed with Forever Aloe Vera Gel and you’ll get a powerful dose of vitamin C whilst you wander, and it may even spur you on to increase your pace.
Keep Moving With The Help Of Vitamin C
You can’t have an effective workout if you’re struggling with restricted movement, but thankfully vitamin C can also help here. Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of bones and cartilage, and the formation of collagen is vital when it comes to moving around!
Collagen is a protein that’s naturally produced by the body but unfortunately it can weaken and lessen with age. Its role is to help give structure and shape, it’s extremely flexible and it can withstand quite a lot of weight, however diminished collagen in the bones or cartilage can lead to fractures, joint pain and skeletal fragility. So, if you want to continue to lead an active lifestyle well into retirement, keeping on top of vitamin C will do your collagen levels a world of good.
Vitamin C Puts The ‘Iron’ In ‘Ironman’
Fitness enthusiasts are likely to be familiar with Ironman competitions. These series of long-distance triathlons require you to take part in a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride and a 26.22-mile run, in that order, without taking a break. This is obviously pretty exhausting work – you’ll definitely need at least 280mg of vitamin C that day – but this type of exercise could, ironically, also affect your iron levels.
Iron deficiency is a common disorder in athletes since the mineral is lost through sweat, skin, urine and the gastrointestinal tract. In fact, high intensity exercise will increase iron loss by as much as 70% compared to someone who’s sedentary. Iron is responsible for normal oxygen transport in the body, it has a role in the process of cell division, and it contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells. Red blood cells can break down quicker in people who exercise so it’s very important that they keep on top of iron levels.
Vitamin C can help counteract iron loss by instead helping to increase iron absorption. There are two types of iron: heme (from animal sources) and non-heme (from plant sources). Vitamin C works with non-heme iron by converting it into a form that can easily be absorbed by the body. According to one study, having 100mg of vitamin C with a meal increases iron absorption by 67%, so it’s certainly worth having a 330ml glass of aloe and Argi+ with your lunch!
Add power to your fitness plan by boosting your vitamin C intake with Argi+ and Forever Aloe Vera Gel. Buy your limited edition Argi+ and Aloe Mini Tripack today.
People from all walks of life seem to rave about aloe vera, and I often find myself in conversations with locals when I’m on holiday about the amazing benefits of this miracle plant. Just recently I f...
People from all walks of life seem to rave about aloe vera, and I often find myself in conversations with locals when I’m on holiday about the amazing benefits of this miracle plant. Just recently I found myself chatting to a market stall owner in Madeira who was selling crystallised fruit, and one of his favourites was crystallised aloe. While aloe in this form may not offer the health benefits we hope for, when consumed as a drink – especially a drink that’s as close to its purest form – aloe vera can positively impact you in many ways.
Purity does matter here though, so choose drinks that contain a high percentage of inner leaf aloe gel. Forever Aloe Vera Gel (available in 1 litre or 330ml) boasts 99.7% pure aloe gel and it’s the purest you’ll find on the market. Read on to find out how drinking this aloe vera gel will affect you this summer.
Despite a high-profile campaign that launched in 2003 surrounding the importance of eating your ‘five-a-day’, the British public are still falling short of consuming this recommended daily allowance....
Despite a high-profile campaign that launched in 2003 surrounding the importance of eating your ‘five-a-day’, the British public are still falling short of consuming this recommended daily allowance. A diet that lacks in sufficient fruit and vegetables is a diet that lacks in essential nutrients, and this can lead to significant health issues!
Poor diet related illnesses cost the NHS around £6 billion per year – this is more than alcohol, smoking and sedentary lifestyle related cases. Around 12% of the total number of deaths are due to diet-related ill health, and that’s about 70,000 premature deaths per year!
It’s been sixteen years since UK government launched the five-a-day campaign to mainstream consumers, yet data suggests that nutrient intake has continued to decline and the majority of people in the UK are not eating a healthy diet that delivers all the nutrients they need. In fact, only 31% of adults (19-64) and 8% of children aged 11-18 are getting their five-a-day.
According to a recent report published by the Health and Food Supplements Information Service (based on findings from the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey Rolling Programme and an annual Family Food survey by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs), adults are significantly below the recommended daily intake of various nutrients including omega-3, magnesium and fibre (amongst others). Public Health England (PHE) already recommends that the entire UK population turn to food supplements such as vitamin D to help plug the gaps where daily diets are failing, so we decided to take a closer look at three of the nutrients that the UK are currently at risk of being deficient in.
As a result, Public Health England (PHE) now recommends that the entire UK population turn to food supplements that can help to plug the gaps where daily diets are failing.
Aloe vera as a beauty remedy is by no means a new perception, in fact, this reputation has been around for more than 5,000 years. Studies show that ancient Egyptian legend Cleopatra applied aloe to he...
Aloe vera as a beauty remedy is by no means a new perception, in fact, this reputation has been around for more than 5,000 years. Studies show that ancient Egyptian legend Cleopatra applied aloe to her skin daily, and even native Americans referred to the plant as ‘the wand of heaven’ because of its beauty properties.
So, what is it about aloe that makes it so great? Well, it’s the inner most gel that contains all the beneficial goodness. Over 75 active nutrients have been identified in the gel, including amino acids, enzymes, saponins, minerals, vitamins and fatty acids.
By 600BC, aloe traders who travelled from Persia to India discovered that they could separate this precious gel from the outer rind by crushing the leaves with their bare feet and scooping the pulp into goatskin bags. Thankfully this method of extraction has since evolved, and effectively farmed aloe is now delicately hand filleted in order to extract the inner most gel. Scientists are then able to harness the gel’s power and elevate its abilities by adding complementary ingredients that work in synergy with the aloe.
Because aloe is a miracle ingredient in itself, when shopping for aloe products you want to look for ones that contain a high percentage of aloe gel; ones that place aloe as the foundation ingredient. These are the products that will contain the most innate aloe benefits and therefore the ones that will make you look and feel beautiful.
Let’s take a look at four ways aloe can make you ooze radiance:
Aloe and Inner Beauty
Beauty runs far deeper than your external appearance but if you really do want your physical appearance to benefit for years to come, you’re better off addressing beauty from the inside out.
Aloe vera can help since the prized gel can actually be consumed as a drink. During the Crusades, the Knights of Templar created a drink of palm wine, aloe pulp and hemp. It was named ‘the Elixir of Jerusalem’ and they believed that it added years to their health and life. While this isn’t the drink we’re recommending, a glass of aloe gel each day can work wonders for your overall health and wellbeing.
You may have seen aloe water and aloe vera juices pop up in supermarkets and health food stores but be wary as these often contain only a small percentage of aloe vera, and other parts of the plant may have even been used which can create quite a bitter taste. If you are after something that provides nutrients and results, you want to search for something that contains pure inner leaf aloe vera – the higher the percentage, the better.
Forever Living has mastered its aloe gel extraction process and within hours of harvesting the inner gel is stabilised to ensure its purity remains intact. The gel then goes through a special aseptic process to further lock in the benefits and prevent harmful bacteria. The outcome is a fresh and nutritious drink that’s almost as close to drinking the gel direct from the plant. At 99.7% pure aloe vera, Forever Aloe Vera Gel is the ultimate beauty beverage.
Since aloe vera is great for skin, hair and nails, drinking the gel will still benefit these aspects by working from the inside out.
Aloe and Hair
While aloe can’t transform your straight hair into tight curls, it can benefit the condition of your locks thanks to its hydrating and conditioning properties. Drinking aloe is great for hair but aloe-based hair products will also contribute to its healthy appearance so it’s worth looking out for aloe on your haircare products’ ingredient lists! Diane Gage, author of ‘Aloe Vera: Nature's Soothing Healer’ says, "Keratin, the primary protein of hair, consists of amino acids, oxygen, carbon, and small amounts of hydrogen, nitrogen, and sulphur. Aloe vera has a chemical make-up similar to that of keratin and it rejuvenates the hair with its own nutrients, giving it more elasticity and preventing breakage."
It’s important to note however that aloe cannot fix what’s already broken. If your hair is damaged and scattered in split ends, chances are your mane will need a good old trim, but the trick is to protect your hair before it reaches such a state. With summer approaching, your hair is at risk of sustaining damage from the sun, sea salt, chlorine, BBQ smoke and who knows what else, but this is where an aloe-rich product like Aloe First can help. Aloe First contains 80% pure aloe vera gel as well as bee propolis and plant extracts to help protect your hair from such summery threats.
Aloe and Skin
Skincare is where aloe vera really leaves a lasting impression – there’s a reason why people refer to their radiant complexion as their ‘aloe glow’! Your skin’s pH should be 5.5 but external irritants and harsh cleansers can disturb your skin’s natural balance which can lead to blemishes and uneven skin tone. Restoring balance is key and because aloe also has a natural pH of 5.5, this ingredient is a great place to start!
Drinking aloe will benefit skin from the inside and if you drink Forever Aloe Vera Gel you will also benefit from added vitamin C. Vitamin C contributes to the maintenance of collagen in the skin and collagen is responsible for skin’s ability to maintain its shape. Loss of collagen can lead to sagging, fine lines and wrinkles, but collagen does naturally fade as you age so vitamins that assist are most welcome!
Topical aloe products are also great for skin, particularly those that prioritise aloe as the primary ingredient. A high percentage of aloe means you’ll benefit from aloe’s ability to naturally soothe, moisturise and it will also work as a natural barrier to protect your skin from aggravators that can lead to a break down in collagen.
Aloe Propolis Creme boasts 74% aloe as well as bee propolis and camomile, and since it’s quite a thick cream, dry skin, such as the type you get on freshly shaven legs, will love it. If you are wanting an aloe-rich product for your face, Aloe Activator should definitely be on your shopping list. This unique liquid moisturiser packs an incredible 98.9% pure aloe in every drop, and this means it can be used as a cleanser, toner and moisturiser, soothing your complexion and leaving it beautifully conditioned.
Aloe and Nails
If you’re constantly plagued by flaky, weak nails, you may find that aloe vera helps. While poorly removed gel polish and constant washing up isn’t going to do your nails any favours, aloe has long believed to be beneficial for your cuticles and nails so it’s worth investing in a decent hand lotion that’s high in aloe, as well as drinking the pure gel of course!
Aloe Lotion, with 66% aloe and apricot kernel oil, creates a lightweight barrier which is essential for both your skin and nails, especially when you’re constantly using your hands to wash, clean and touch things around you. Since it’s a light lotion, it absorbs quickly into skin – this means no greasy residue – plus it’s packed with nourishing ingredients. You may also be interested to hear that it also contains elastin and collagen. Elastin helps to give skin its bounce but, like collagen, elastin also diminishes with age.
Has aloe helped to make you feel beautiful? Let us know which products you can’t live without in the comments.
Aloe vera is packed with goodness which is why it has formed the foundation of Forever’s product line. Nobody knows aloe as well as us. Unlike other brands on the market, we do not scrimp on how much...
Aloe vera is packed with goodness which is why it has formed the foundation of Forever’s product line. Nobody knows aloe as well as us. Unlike other brands on the market, we do not scrimp on how much aloe – and we mean high quality inner leaf aloe gel – we use in our products. Read on to find out how you can incorporate our aloe vera into your daily routine.
7am – Start your day with Forever Aloe Vera Gel
Not only does Forever Aloe Vera Gel promote healthy digestion, but starting your day with this aloe vera drink will help make everything you do afterwards feel more beneficial. It was the first product to receive the International Aloe Science Council’s (IASC) seal of approval for consistency and purity, and its new formula proudly contains 99.7% pure aloe vera!
8am - Apply Aloe Activator to your skin
This unique moisturiser in liquid form features over 98% aloe vera gel. This simple formula uses the power of aloe to leave skin feeling refreshed and soothed from the moment it touches your face. The high concentration of aloe makes Aloe Activator an ideal addition to your morning skincare routine.
10am – Exercise and apply Aloe Heat Lotion
Try to work in at least 40 minutes of exercise a day to keep your body in good health. If you have tired muscles after your hard workout, apply Aloe Heat Lotion with its lubricating properties that soothe aches and strains and the deep penetrating power of aloe vera. This rich emollient lotion also contains deep heating agents, making it the ideal massage companion.
12pm - Eat three citrus quinoa salad for lunch
After all that exercise, it’s time for a healthy and delicious lunch. Toss together quinoa, feta, orange, grapefruit, wild rocket, orange zest and of course the dressing for this recipe contains 1 tsp of Forever Aloe Peaches. Find the full recipe here.
3pm – Moisturise those lips!
It is vital to moisturise your lips with a high-quality lip balm such as Aloe Lips with Jojoba to soothe the delicate skin and to ensure lips are loaded with moisture. Thanks to ingredients such as aloe, jojoba and three types of wax, Aloe Lips is packed with essential moisturising properties. Apply this lip balm liberally after exfoliating, as well as throughout the day as often as necessary. It is also a good idea to get into the routine of applying lip balm every morning and night for silky-smooth lips all year round.
6pm - Eat chicken kebabs with aloe and avocado dip for dinner
Chicken kebabs are a great substitute for that late-night takeaway and not to mention tasty, juicy, and quick to make. But to maximise the flavour, include our aloe and avocado dip which contains 2 tbsp of Forever Aloe Vera Gel. Find the full recipe here.
9pm – Apply Aloe Propolis Creme to your body before bed
You should always make a special effort to moisturise your body with Aloe Propolis Creme. This soft and silky cream boasts 74% pure aloe as well as bee propolis and camomile to help maintain healthy skin all year round.
And relax…
How are you incorporating aloe vera into your life? Let us know in the comments.
Most people know why aloe vera is beneficial for overall health and wellbeing – you may even have a little pot plant on your kitchen window ledge just in case you need to get to its soothing inner lea...
Most people know why aloe vera is beneficial for overall health and wellbeing – you may even have a little pot plant on your kitchen window ledge just in case you need to get to its soothing inner leaf gel in a cooking emergency – but what you may not realise is that not every aloe plant is equal, and not every ‘aloe’ product contains the aloe percentage or purity needed to deliver the benefits you’re after.
Let’s look at purity of aloe vera
Out of the 400 or so species, it’s the Aloe Barbadensis Miller variety that carries the properties most beneficial to humans, and it is the pure inner leaf gel of this plant that houses the nutrients many of us desire.
It’s likely that you already have a rough idea as to why people love this succulent, especially since it’s colloquially referred to as the ‘burn plant’ or ‘miracle plant’, but aloe is also believed to benefit your skin, hair and nails, your digestive health, and it can support immunity. That said, it’s not as simple as rubbing the leaf over your skin – that would actually be quite prickly and uncomfortable – it’s about extracting the right part of the plant and in many cases, mixing this magical element with other ingredients that elevate its power to deliver effective results.
The structure of an aloe leaf is made up of rind, sap, mucilage and parenchyma gel. The rind is a waxy outer layer that acts as protection and just inside the rind is a fluid called sap, this is pretty bitter in taste. Below the sap is mucilage containing acemannan – acemannan carries beneficial properties relating to immune health – and this layer is usually filleted to reveal inner gel known as the parenchyma, a clear, gel-like substance. Scientists have identified more than 75 active nutrients in the gel and these compounds work synergistically to provide soothing and therapeutic benefits. These compounds include amino acids, enzymes, saponins, minerals, vitamins and fatty acids, and it is this pure inner leaf gel that’s responsible for aloe’s glowing reputation.
Flawless skin is seemingly everywhere: celebrities, magazines, TV shows, billboards – everyone appears to have perfect complexions, and although most of us are aware of airbrushing and makeup tricks,...
Flawless skin is seemingly everywhere: celebrities, magazines, TV shows, billboards – everyone appears to have perfect complexions, and although most of us are aware of airbrushing and makeup tricks, the idea that you could effortlessly sport radiant skin is something many of us desire.
The state of your complexion can set the tone for the entire day. I know that if I wake up with raging spots, it’s likely that I’ll be feeling a teeny bit grumpier than I would if I woke up looking like I’ve just walked off a catwalk (I’m still waiting for this day by the way), and if like me your skin is closely related to your confidence levels, you’re probably tempted to pile on makeup and pretend that your bad skin day never happened. Unfortunately covering up the problem to look like you have great skin can often irritate your skin further, and, quite frankly, it’s hard work having to slather on the layers when you have early mornings and other priorities fighting for your time.
While completely flawless skin may be a tall order, healthy skin is certainly more obtainable, and once achieved your makeup bag will simply exist to gather dust in the corner!
Skincare is more than products…
Skincare is far more than lotions and cleansers; it should be a habit that encompasses beneficial lifestyle choices. So, if you’re really concerned about achieving healthy skin, you need to consider what else can affect your complexion.
If you are hoping for a flawless complexion that screams healthy skin, chances are you are not thinking about pinning your hopes on a skincare plan that revolves around bacteria. But did you know that...
If you are hoping for a flawless complexion that screams healthy skin, chances are you are not thinking about pinning your hopes on a skincare plan that revolves around bacteria. But did you know that there is such thing as good bacteria and bad bacteria? Bad bacteria can lead to spots and inflammation, but if you know where to find the friendly bacteria – and more importantly how to harness its powers for skin health – you will be well on the way to sporting the healthy skin you crave.
What’s Meant By ‘Friendly Bacteria’?
Billions of microflora – or good bacteria – live all over your body; on your skin, in your mouth, up your nose and in your intestine. In fact, 2% of your total body mass is thanks to these bacteria, which far outnumber the number of cells inside your body. While this may be a grim thought for some, rest assured that these microscopic creatures are keeping you ticking by helping to digest food, absorb essential nutrients and build immunity.
Some well-known friendly bacteria cultures include lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium B-bifidum; both of these naturally occur in the intestines or digestive tract, but since these names are hard to read and pronounce, it’s probably best if we stick to ‘good bacteria’! The important thing to remember is that such bacteria are believed to restore balance and maintain good health.
Nutrition and Skin Health
These friendly bacteria strains live in harmony with some not-so-friendly bacteria, but problems can arise when poor food choices encourage the bad bacteria to multiply and outnumber the good stuff.
It’s perhaps easy to understand why eating a greasy cheeseburger over a salad may cause you to break out, but other elements of your diet, including one that’s low in fat or nutrients, can also negatively impact your skin. Refined carbs, simple sugars and processed fats are all notable poor nutritional choices that can irritate your microbiome, and if your gut microbiome is altered in some way, a substance called neuropeptide is released in both the skin and the gut. Friendly bacteria can help to weaken the affects of this substance but if there is not enough to restore balance, poor skin could make an appearance.
Choosing fermented foods that naturally contain good bacteria, such as yoghurt, kefir, pickles and cottage cheese, could help in this instance, but you should also look at selecting foods that are high in vitamins that contribute to the maintenance of normal skin. Look for foods containing biotin, iodine and zinc, vitamin A, and B vitamins like niacin and riboflavin.
The Friendly Bacteria Face Mask
It’s not just nutrition and natural friendly bacteria that can benefit your skin’s health; a face mask made from bacteria could also work wonders for your complexion. And yes, you did read that correctly!
Innovative skincare scientists are constantly looking at ways in which face mask fibres interact with skin in order to deliver nutrients deep into the pores, and bio-cellulose has been identified as one of the most effective fibres on the market. Specifically, bio-cellulose has been praised for its ability to deeply penetrate, hydrate and mould to the contours of your face, far more successfully than cotton or hydrogel (other common fibre masks).
But bio-cellulose isn’t your usual everyday weave, it’s actually a fibre created by bacteria called acetobacter xylinum. This bacterium metabolises glucose and secretes cellulose as part of this process. If the bacteria are fed other substances, for example aloe vera gel and seagrass (two skin-loving ingredients), these ingredients will fuse directly to the fibres which can then be harnessed and used to create a face mask.
Bio-cellulose is considered to be superior to other fibre masks because it’s 1,000 times finer than human hair. This helps with its mouldability but also in its ability to reach the deeper layers of the dermis. Surface skin pores are approximately 50nm and while non-woven fibre mask molecules are 1000nm, bio-cellulose fibres are only 30nm – this means the goodness can seep 8.7-14.5 times deeper than the goodness from a non-woven mask!
If you fancy feeding your skin bacteria, the good kind, try Forever Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask. This mask has been saturated in a powerful serum that’s been enriched by natural ingredients to hydrate, soften and condition skin.
Have you tried introducing good bacteria to your skincare routine? Let us know in the comments below.
Forever Living recently launched a brand-new nutritional supplement drink that’s packed with twenty fruits and vegetables. It also contains barley grass; however, the gluten has been extracted so it c...
Forever Living recently launched a brand-new nutritional supplement drink that’s packed with twenty fruits and vegetables. It also contains barley grass; however, the gluten has been extracted so it can still be considered gluten free.
Forever Supergreens contains no added sugar and has been made up of the following fruit and vegetable powders: apple, tomato, strawberry, cranberry, mangosteen, pumpkin, blueberry, acai, goji, grape, pomegranate, spinach, cabbage, onion, broccoli, sugar beets, kale, beetroot, carrot and red pepper.
These sought-after foods are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to the maintenance of all sorts of vital bodily functions, and Forever Supergreens is particularly high in vitamins C, E and magnesium. If you’re looking at a way to boost your nutrient intake but struggle to eat enough fruit and veg each day, Forever Supergreens could be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Read on to find out how a glass of Forever Supergreens can benefit your body.
Boosts Energy
Do you often feel like you have a million-and-one things to do and that you’re always rushing around trying to play catch up? If so, an unwelcome bout of fatigue is the last thing you need! Tiredness and fatigue can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of sleep or more serious health complaints. If you are concerned, you should ensure you visit a medical professional; however, it may be that the lethargic feeling you have become accustomed to is due to a vitamin deficiency. Both vitamin C and magnesium contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
Fatigue can affect you both physically and mentally and it should not be confused with drowsiness. Fatigue is due to lost energy and signs include lack of motivation, easily tiring once an activity has begun or difficulty concentrating. Strawberries, blueberries, cranberries, broccoli and red peppers are all sources of vitamin C, while spinach, cabbage and kale will provide magnesium to your diet.
Brings Balance
Another benefit of magnesium is that it contributes to electrolyte balance, and while we all know that we want to bring balance to our bodies, often we’re unsure what that really means.
Our bodies are full of minerals; they can be found in your blood, urine, tissues and other fluids and if these minerals have an electric charge, they are known as electrolytes. Electrolytes are responsible for helping to balance the water levels in your body, ensuring your body’s pH levels are balanced, and moving nutrients to, and waste from, cells. Electrolytes also ensure your nerves, muscles, heart and brain function as they should.
Maintains Muscles, Bones and Teeth
Talking about muscles, magnesium also contributes to normal muscle function, as well as to the maintenance of normal bones and teeth. When we talk about muscles, it’s easy to think of the body-builder physique, but don’t forget that your muscles are actually responsible for enabling movement throughout your entire body. Humans have around 700 muscles attached to their skeleton and many major organs also contain muscle tissue. Muscle tissue is the only bodily tissue that is able to contract and move other parts of the body. As well as allowing movement, muscles also help us to maintain posture, move substances around the body and generate body heat.
Teeth and bones are made from various mineral substances and are quite similar in terms of composition, but you may be interested to learn that your teeth are actually stronger than your bones. Despite this, if you were to break a tooth, it would not regenerate and repair in the same way a bone does, and as you age, your bones and teeth will naturally begin to weaken. That’s why it’s important to ensure your diet is rich in nutrients that help to maintain normal bones and teeth.
Keeps Your Psyche in Check
Both vitamin C and magnesium contribute to normal psychological function, but what exactly does this mean? Psychological function actually refers to how people utilise their senses to inform a decision or perceive the world around them. Intuition, emotions and the ability to think rationally play a role in psychological function, and consciousness is also closely linked. If you are daydreaming, tipsy, half asleep or poorly, your level of consciousness may have been compromised and this will affect your ability to function at full psychological capacity. If your psychological function has been compromised for some reason, decision-making and interpreting situations can become more challenging, leading to poor choices, injury or regrets.
Upholds Your Immune System
A compromised immune system can open you up to all sorts of illnesses, colds, flu, viruses and diseases that quite frankly you can do without. We have all been built with an immune system so that we can fight off pathogens such as infectious bacteria and parasites. Our bodies are full of cells that work hard to remove invaders and foreign tissue, and exposure to more pathogens helps us to build immunity. When invaders, known as antigens, enter the body, cells create antibodies to latch on to the antigen to inform other cells that it needs to be removed. A copy of the antibody remains in the body so that if the same antigen appears later down the line, the antibodies can latch on quicker than before.
If you’re keen to ensure your immune system keeps on functioning as it should, you’ll want to ensure your diet is rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C helps to maintain the normal function of the immune system.
Assists Collagen Formation
When you think of collagen, you may immediately think of your skin and how collagen can help slow the signs of ageing, but collagen is an amino acid protein that’s present throughout the body, including in your bones, gums, connective tissues and blood vessels.
The role of collagen is to hold the body together. It works a bit like scaffolding, providing strength and structure to cells. There are actually over sixteen different types of collagen and one type acts as a protective covering for delicate organs. As you age, natural collagen production decreases and that’s why it’s important to ensure your diet is rich in vitamins like vitamin C; vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of blood vessels, bones, cartilage, gums, skin and teeth.
Normalises Your Nerves
Magnesium and vitamin C contribute to normal functioning of the nervous system. Your nervous system is responsible for transmitting signals and messages across the body in order for an action to occur. It is a bit like having built-in electrical wiring and without this complex method of communication, humans would struggle to interpret internal messages and their bodies would shut down. We all have three nervous systems: central, peripheral and autonomic.
The central nervous system connects the brain, spinal cord and retina, the peripheral nervous system is made up of sensory neurons that connect the central system to your limbs, and the autonomic nerves connect the central system to your major organs. If your nervous system breaks down, you will experience functional difficulties; these could be physical or mental, internal or external.
Protects Your Cells
You may have heard that antioxidants are good for you, and the reason people go mad for foods labelled as antioxidants is because they contain vitamins that help to protect the cells in your body from oxidative stress. Vitamins C and E are both antioxidant vitamins, and vitamin E is commonly found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and leafy green veg.
Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance of certain molecules in the body. Molecules with one or more unpaired electrons occur naturally in the body, but poor diet and environmental irritants such as pollution and pesticides can also create these molecules. Antioxidants are also naturally produced by cells and they are responsible for neutralising these molecules. Oxidative stress occurs when there are not enough antioxidants to neutralise these molecules.
Oxidative stress is not always harmful, a small amount can actually be beneficial, but long-term exposure can damage cells and cause premature ageing or life-changing conditions.
While we’re on the subject of cells, you may be interested to learn that magnesium can also be of benefit, playing a role in the process of cell division. Cell division is a process that constantly takes place inside of your body; in fact, nearly two trillion cells divide every day! Cells divide and produce replica cells to replace dead or damaged cells (such as broken skin) and to encourage growth. This process is regulated by the cells themselves, which communicate via chemical signals so that they know when to start and stop dividing; this is essential for healing and for growth.
Face masks are the fastest growing product in facial skincare, with sales up 48% this year according to Kantar Worldpanel. Whatever your skin type (normal, dry, oily and combination) face masks are an...
Face masks are the fastest growing product in facial skincare, with sales up 48% this year according to Kantar Worldpanel. Whatever your skin type (normal, dry, oily and combination) face masks are an easy and convenient skincare product that can be incorporated into your regular routine to help get your skin back on track. But with so many face masks on the market you want to find the best face mask that works for you. Forever explains the differences below.
MARINE MASK – THE PREMIXED MASK
If you want to say goodbye to drab, dull and dry skin then treat your pores to a deep clean with the Forever Marine Mask. Not only is it easy-to-apply but it also contains moisturising and conditioning properties of aloe vera, honey, cucumber and natural sea minerals. By using this ready-mixed face mask twice a week, you will deeply penetrate the skin and leave it feeling refreshed and revitalised. Simply spread the mask generously in an upward and outward motion over the entire face, avoiding the eyes. Leave to dry for 15-20 minutes, then remove with warm water and a soft cloth.
MASK POWDER – THE ‘MIX IT YOURSELF’ MASK
This ultra-fine skin powder contains a unique combination of ingredients including camomile to smooth, condition and cleanse the skin. The face mask is designed to blend perfectly with our Aloe Activator to create a thin mask for easy application to the face and neck. When blended together it should have the consistency of a lotion. After you apply the face mask, you'll feel it tightening and solidifying as it cleanses your pores, and once removed, skin will feel refreshed and conditioned. Remove after 30 minutes by soaking a flannel in warm water and placing it on your face to soften the mask. Once soft, gently remove the residue with warm water. Finish your skincare regime with your favourite toner and moisturiser.
SONYA REFINING GEL MASK – THE OVERNIGHT MASK
Want to achieve a fresh-faced look while you sleep? Say hello to the Sonya Refining Gel Mask from Forever! This mask helps promote healthy skin tone by nourishing your skin while you sleep, without leaving skin greasy. Simply apply a generous amount over your entire face before bedtime and leave on overnight. Rinse thoroughly with warm water in the morning to reveal a balanced complexion.
This face mask helps to support balance by controlling oil and brightening the appearance of skin. To make the most of your shut eye, we infused this gel with a bounty of botanicals, including carrot seed oil, basil oil, artemisia pallens flower oil and soybean oil. The cool gel of the face mask will absorb quickly into your skin so that you benefit from the moisturising properties of our rich, stabilised aloe vera gel, as well as moisturisers like apple fruit extract, clover flower extract, sasa quelpaertensis (Korean bamboo) extract, and liquorice root, a vitamin-rich plant which provides antioxidant support.
ALOE BIO-CELLULOSE MASK – THE SHEET MASK
What better way to increase skin hydration than with an aloe-infused face mask that literally seeps aloe vera directly into your pores? Unlike traditional masks, Forever's Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask fuses aloe and seagrass between bio-cellulose fibres to ensure deep moisturisation that penetrates every fine line and wrinkle, soothing and conditioning skin. This environmentally-friendly sheet mask has also been enriched by a moisturising serum of green tea and horse chestnut that rejuvenates dull skin by combatting the signs of ageing and reducing the appearance of redness. This mask is easy-to-apply and the fibres fuse to the contours of your face. Simply pop the face-shaped sheet mask to your face, leave it on for twenty minutes then dispose it in the garden to add nutrients to the soil. There’s no need to rinse your skin after removal, simply rub remaining residue into your complexion to unveil soft, supple and radiant skin.
Which Forever face mask is your favourite? Let us know in the comments.
Forever Living recently launched a brand new, long anticipated sunscreen that’s packed with beneficial ingredients your skin will love. Do you want to enjoy long summer days at the beach withou...
Forever Living recently launched a brand new, long anticipated sunscreen that’s packed with beneficial ingredients your skin will love.
Do you want to enjoy long summer days at the beach without fear of causing damage to your skin? Well then, you’re in luck! We reveal six reasons why Aloe Sunscreen is the sun protection you should turn to this summer.
1. Aloe Sunscreen protects you from UVA and UVB rays
Most people know that a decent sunscreen protects you from ultraviolet rays but not every sunscreen on the market protects you from both UVA and UVB.
At the very least a sunscreen should offer UVB protection as these are the rays that cause the skin to burn. UVB are the shortwaves that cause reddening and superficial skin damage to the epidermis, and skin burning can occur at any time throughout the year, not just in the summer months. In fact, surfaces like snow and ice reflect 80% of rays which means you can be hit by them twice!
UVA on the other hand are long waves that can penetrate the deeper layers of skin. They can break through clouds and glass and they account for 95% of the UV radiation that reaches earth. UVA are the rays responsible for causing skin ageing, so if you want to avoid fine lines and wrinkles, you’ll want to ensure your sunscreen offers UVA protection.
2. Aloe Sunscreen gives SPF 30 broad spectrum protection
SPF, or sun protection factor, indicates the level of protection from UVB rays. A sunscreen that’s labelled to offer you with high protection will be factor 30 or higher. This scientific measure monitors the time it takes for the UVB rays to break through the sunscreen and cause skin reddening, compared to the time it takes if no sunscreen has been applied. SPF 30 sunscreen will therefore take thirty times longer. In addition, if a product claims to provide broad spectrum protection as well, that product will also protect users from UVA rays to the same proportion that the SPF blocks the UVB rays.
3. Aloe Sunscreen is water resistant
If you’re in need of a high protection sunscreen, you are probably wanting one that’s also water resistant so that you don’t have to reapply it every few minutes. It doesn’t matter if you’re not into the pool or going for a swim in the sea, the warm weather will still cause you to naturally perspire and this can affect your sun protection. Aloe Sunscreen’s high-quality formula boasts water resistance for up to 80 minutes and this means you can confidently sweat away in the sunshine for a time before having to reapply. However, it’s important to note that non-sweaty individuals should still reapply sunscreen after 2 hours in the sun or after using a towel.
4. Aloe Sunscreen is full of nourishing ingredients
Aloe vera is a beautiful skincare ingredient that soothes skin, locks in moisture and provides natural hydration. Aloe carries a pH of 5.5, the same as balanced skin, which is why it’s the perfect complement in any skincare product.
Forever Living only uses pure inner leaf aloe vera gel extracted from plants that have been cultivated on its own plantations. Aloe Barbadensis Miller is the species of aloe considered to contain the most benefits to humans and animals, and this is the species grown and nurtured by Forever.
Antioxidant vitamin E also plays a heroic role in this sunscreen’s revolutionary formula. Vitamin E protects cells from oxidative stress which can lead to premature ageing and skin damage. Environmental nasties like pollution and cigarette smoke can cause oxidative stress, as can ultraviolet rays. Such stress can damage skin cells which is why antioxidant vitamins should be an ingredient you look for in any topical product.
5. Aloe Sunscreen contains non-nanosized zinc oxide
Natural minerals like zinc oxide sit on top of the skin to provide a physical barrier that reflects away harmful UV rays. However, it’s important to note that there is also a difference between nanosized and non-nanosized zinc oxide. Nanosized zinc oxide refers to zinc oxide that has been broken down into smaller particles in an attempt to reduce the thick white paste appearance often associated with traditional sunscreen. These smaller particles can seep deeper into the skin and some researchers argue that these nanoparticles can then be absorbed into body tissue. On the other hand, non-nanosized particles provide broader skin coverage and the larger particles will not seep deeper into your skin. There is also some belief that non-nanosized zinc oxide provides better coverage against blue light than its nanosized rival.
Thankfully Forever has combined the benefits of natural, non-nanosized zinc oxide with scientific technology, and this has resulted in a sunscreen that does not leave behind white residue or feel greasy on the skin.
6. Aloe Sunscreen is reef safe
When shopping for sunscreen being reef safe might not even cross your mind but it is important and here’s why. Coral reefs are the most diverse and oldest ecosystems which the whole world relies on for various reasons including supporting fisheries as well as tourism, a source of food and they provide a home to thousands of different marine species with their three-dimensional structures. They are also important in our ever-changing climate where they can act as natural barrier against storms like hurricanes, typhoons, and even tsunamis.
Unfortunately, two ingredients – oxybenzone and octinoxate – are found in many common sunscreens and are destroying these ecosystems. In fact, more than 14,000 tons of sunscreen washes off swimmers, scuba divers, and snorkelers every year. Thankfully, Forever’s Aloe Sunscreen is free from these harmful ingredients and therefore reef safe; this means by wearing it, you are protecting our oceans!
Aloe Sunscreen is a cruelty-free, vegan-friendly mineral sunscreen that’s Leaping Bunny certified. Purchase it today from foreverliving.com.
Have you tried it yet? Let us know in the comments below.
Face masks have been around for years with many people viewing them as an indulgent treat that you turn to after a rough day or when your skin is in dire need of some TLC. There are all sorts of varie...
Face masks have been around for years with many people viewing them as an indulgent treat that you turn to after a rough day or when your skin is in dire need of some TLC. There are all sorts of varieties on the market, from clay masks to overnight masks, but the growing trend over the last year has seen a rise in the fabric sheet mask.
Sheet masks are completely flipping the face mask stereotype on its head by challenging the ‘occasional use’ idea and offering a more accessible solution that can be integrated regularly into your skincare routine. Truth be told, your skin needs more attention than the once in a blue moon romanticised scenario of pampering you had earmarked for the 20th of never. Due to increased environmental toxins, your skin needs (and deserves) to be regularly enriched with nutrients that are going to keep it looking its best– and it needs these nutrients today.
So, if you want to transform your complexion this year you’d better keep reading; we’ll be sharing how the properties of sheet masks can benefit skin and deliver glowing results.
WHAT IS A SHEET MASK?
Sheet masks are individually packaged face-shaped pieces of fabric that have been soaked in a skin-loving serum consisting of nutrients and enriching ingredients. The fabric has holes cut out for eyes, lips and nostrils so that it can fit over your face and deliver goodness to the layers of skin that are widely exposed to the environment.
The fabric mask and its sought-after serum is usually protected on each side by another layer of woven fabric or paper that can be peeled off. Peel off one layer and press the mask serum-side down onto your face, then remove the outside layer. Leave on for around 20 minutes, peel off and discard the sheet mask. Any residue remaining on your skin can be left to soak in.
Quality sheet masks are growing in popularity and you may have even seen a few celebs or friends on Instagram posting slightly ghoulish selfies as they pose wearing one of these hydrating skin masks. Once you try one, you’ll understand their eagerness to share!
HOW DOES A SHEET MASK WORK?
The best fabric face masks on the market work because the fabric fibres fit easily to every contour of your face to ensure the serum penetrates deep into the layers of the skin. There are various different materials that can be used to make these fibre sheet masks, including non-woven fibre, cotton and hydrogel, but if you are looking for a mask that fits seamlessly to the skin for maximum delivery and absorption, you want to look for bio-cellulose.
Bio-cellulose is an all-natural fibre that’s made by a special microorganism. These fibres are 1,000 times finer than human hair, incredibly moisture retentive and extremely pliable. Active substances are then weaved into the space between the interlacing bio-cellulose fibres which means the goodness is only accessible to the user during application.
Bio-cellulose masks are far more effective than non-woven masks thanks to the high penetration rate it can achieve. The masks offer a dual delivery process, firstly saturating the epidermis before focused dermal delivery. The average pore size of the epidermis (the outer layer of skin) is 50nm; non-woven fibre molecules are 1000nm, while bio-cellulose fibres are 30nm. This means the serum captured within the bio-cellulose can seep deep into pores to penetrate the deeper layers of the dermis – 8.7-14.5 times deeper to be precise!
WHY ARE SHEET MASKS BENEFICIAL?
So now you know what sheet masks are and how they work, but what exactly are the benefits?
They are nourishing
A bio-cellulose fabric face mask is extremely nourishing thanks to its ability to deliver highly concentrated ingredients down to the dermis. The serum is usually packed with vitamins, minerals and natural ingredients which means it won’t dry out skin like traditional clay or paste masks, and the tightly laced fibres guide the goodness into your skin instead of losing it through evaporation. When you go to the spa for a facial, you expect a nourishing experience, but a high-quality sheet mask can deliver all the nourishment you need at just a fraction of the cost!
They are hydrating
If you’re after a hydrating face mask, bio-cellulose sheet masks are definitely the way forward. Choose one with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera and sea grass to soothe and condition skin. You should also look for rejuvenating ingredients like horse chestnut to lift dull skin and give you a glowing complexion. Well-hydrated skin will appear soft, supple and plump, and this will give a more youthful-looking complexion.
They are relaxing
You may only need to wear them for 20 minutes, but that’s 20 minutes of ‘me time’ that you’ve probably been craving since you uttered ‘Happy New Year’! Give yourself the pampering experience you deserve. Draw yourself a warm bubble bath, pop on a high-quality and hydrating sheet mask, lie back and benefit from the therapeutic properties infused in the fibres as your troubles and skin woes fade away.
They deliver targeted results
If you have a specific skincare concern, you want to choose a face mask where the ingredients encased within the fibres deliver the results you’re after. You may hope to even skin tone, to firm your skin or to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. If ageing skin is your concern, choose a mask drenched in anti-ageing properties and antioxidants. Antioxidant nutrients like vitamin C and zinc contribute to the protection of cells from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is caused by the damaging effects of the environment or poor nutrition, and cells that aren’t protected can diminish which is when fine lines form. Green tea is just one ingredient that’s rich in such antioxidant nutrients.
They are convenient
The beauty of a sheet mask is that it’s so much more convenient compared to a mask that requires self-mixing, careful application or delicate removal. A good sheet mask is individually wrapped and simply needs unfolding and applying directly to the face. Application literally takes a few seconds as you peel off the outer layers and pat into place. Such convenience means less hassle if you wish to integrate a face mask into your regular skincare routine.
They are environmentally-friendly
Removal is just as easy as the application and you don’t have to worry about causing unnecessary environmental damage in the process. If you choose a sheet mask made from bio-cellulose, the natural fibres are biodegradable so simply toss the used mask on the compost heap or in the food waste after application. The best face masks will also be LEED certified which means they have been produced in an eco-friendly manner.
MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SHEET MASK
While applying your sheet mask to your face is fairly simple, there are a few tips and tricks that should be considered if you want to make the most out of your face mask:
Whether you have oily, dry or combination skin, you’re bound to have identified additional skin concerns that aren’t addressed with your current skincare routine. Skin concerns are different to your s...
Whether you have oily, dry or combination skin, you’re bound to have identified additional skin concerns that aren’t addressed with your current skincare routine. Skin concerns are different to your skin type as they refer specifically to areas of your skin that need a specific solution, as opposed to your skin as a whole. But whether your skin concern is puffiness around your eyes, premature ageing or dull skin, Forever’s targeted skincare products have got you covered.
Skin concern: sensitive skin
Skin solution: Aloe Activator
If you find your skin struggles to get on with many skincare products because it’s a bit more sensitive, then you might want to try a moisturiser with a high percentage of aloe vera. Aloe can be great for sensitivity because of its natural soothing properties, and you won’t find many moisturisers with a higher aloe content than Forever’s Aloe Activator at 98%.
Simply apply Aloe Activator to a cotton pad or ball and gently wipe across skin to soothe your complexion and leave skin feeling beautifully conditioned and ready for anything. This gentle formula will also leave your skin feeling refreshed, so it’s a great part of any skincare routine. You can also use Aloe Activator to create a soothing face mask. Simply mix 1 tsp Mask Powder with 1 tsp Aloe Activator and apply a thin layer to clean skin.
Skin concern: dull, dehydrated skin with signs of premature ageing
Skin solution: Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask
When you’re dehydrated you grab a drink, but what do you do when your skin is thirsty? Well, Forever’s Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask is a great place to start. This premium face mask fuses aloe and seagrass between superfine bio-cellulose fibres to ensure powerful hydration that gets in deep for a truly invigorating experience. It quite literally seeps aloe goodness directly into your pores so that your skin can drink it in.
This mask has also been enriched by a moisturising serum of green tea and horse chestnut that rejuvenates dull skin by soothing and conditioning skin and reducing the appearance of redness. Each mask has been designed to fit seamlessly to the contours of your face, penetrating every fine line and wrinkle, to help fight the signs of ageing. Simply apply the mask for 20 minutes and when you’re done, remove it and rub the remaining residue into your face and neck to unveil soft, supple and radiant skin.
Skin concern: dark circles, puffiness and wrinkles around the eye area
Skin solution: Awakening Eye Cream
Since our eyes are said to be the window to the soul, it’s no wonder we want them to sparkle and look their best. Thanks to peptide technology, collagen and other powerful ingredients, Awakening Eye Cream smooths and firms delicate under-eye skin to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, dark circles and puffiness. This advanced eye cream contains butylene glycol, an ingredient shown to reduce the appearance of eye puffiness and dark circles, along with cutting-edge ingredient albizia julibrissin bark extract with darutoside. This incredible ingredient targets the upper eye lid as well as the delicate skin around the eye to brighten and give a youthful appearance. Along with this, the cream’s hydrating properties help to reduce water loss so that the eyes appear rested, alert and renewed.
Skin concern: Dull, dry skin which lacks radiance.
Skin solution: Smoothing Exfoliator
Are you fed up with your complexion looking dull and tired? Reveal silky, soft and healthy-looking skin with Forever’s Smoothing Exfoliator. Instead of artificial microbeads, this gentle exfoliator uses natural jojoba beads and bamboo powder to remove dead skin cells without harming the skin or the environment and added lemon essential oil works as a rich moisturiser to hydrate the new skin beneath the surface. Thanks to these cleansing benefits, this vitamin-infused exfoliator evens the tone and texture of skin to reveal a smooth, radiant and fresh complexion.
Skin concern: Premature skin ageing and environmental damage.
Skin solution: Protecting Day Lotion
Our Protecting Day Lotion contains SPF 20 to shield against harmful UV rays and defend skin from dark spots caused by sun ageing. This unique lotion combines natural mineral sun protection, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, in a unique dispersion system to help it blend well. This has been paired with allantoin, which is known for its gentle properties to help soothe the skin. This silky cream contains over twenty skin conditioning ingredients including aloe, watermelon and plant extracts, to help fight against oxidative processes, improve skin’s tone and texture and provide ultimate hydration.
Skin concern: Large facial pores.
Skin solution: Balancing Toner
Using a toner after cleansing is a great way to minimise the appearance of pores after cleansing, along with removing excess dirt and debris. Try our Balancing Toner to unleash your skin’s natural glow with its unique blend of aloe, seaweed extract, white tea and cucumber. Balancing Toner will help to smooth skin’s tone and texture to leave you with youthful-looking skin. Use after your favourite Forever cleanser to make a noticeable difference to the way your skin feels, as well as helping to support the absorption of skin-loving nutrients.
Have you tried any of our new targeted products yet? If so, let us know what you think by posting in the comments section below.
Collagen is a term that’s been heard thrown around the beauty world for a while now. Many celebs, including Jennifer Aniston, Halle Berry and Kourtney Kardashian are believed to pin their youthful loo...
Collagen is a term that’s been heard thrown around the beauty world for a while now. Many celebs, including Jennifer Aniston, Halle Berry and Kourtney Kardashian are believed to pin their youthful looks on collagen remedies and supplements, and now it seems this skin-supporting protein has broken into the everyday skincare routines of people who simply wish to fight ageing and look forever young. We decided to take a closer look at the collagen craze to find out why everyone wants a piece of this complex ingredient.
What is collagen?
Collagen is actually a protein that’s found throughout your body. Your tendons, ligaments, skin and muscles are all made up of connective tissues, and collagen is largely found within these tissues. There are around sixteen different types of collagen but all of them, and the structures they form, help tissue to withstand stretching.
Dr Diana Howard from The International Dermal Institute explains how the majority of age-related changes that occur in skin take place in the dermis. The dermis is the thick layer of skin beneath the top layer (the epidermis) and it contains all sorts of structures including sweat glands, hair follicles, sebaceous glands and connective tissues.
As you age, the dermis loses 20-80% of its initial thickness. Cells contained within the connective tissues change over time, and it is these cells, known as fibroblasts, that are responsible for collagen and elastin production. Ageing skin will begin to produce these proteins at a slower rate, which can affect the skin’s ability to repair itself, and a breakdown of collagen and elastin can also impact the skin’s physical structure. It is this process that makes skin susceptible to fine lines and wrinkles. Interestingly, skin that’s been damaged by excessive UV exposure can cause the collagen and elastin cells to disorganise themselves in such a way that they clump together. This results in photodamaged skin which is often indicated by pigmented age-spots.
Where does natural collagen come from?
Since collagen is a naturally-produced protein found in the human body, you may be curious to know what exactly is in collagen supplements and collagen-enriched topical products. Vegetarians may be surprised to learn that when collagen is used as an ingredient, it usually derives from either bovine or marine sources.
So, what’s the difference between bovine and marine collagen? Marine collagen is usually extracted from discarded fish scales (helping to reduce environmental pollution), and it is this collagen that’s considered to be better for absorption and bioavailability. Fish collagen peptides have smaller particles so that they can enter the bloodstream quicker; in fact, marine collagen can be absorbed into the body up to 1.5 times more efficiently compared to bovine collagen.
Marine collagen is classed as type 1, the type that is also most prevalent in the human body. It is composed of a high concentration of hydroxyproline, peptides that stimulate cells in the skin, joints and bones. Research published in 2015 in the Open Nutraceuticals Journal states how clinical trials show the benefits of collagen peptides on skin, including hydration, elasticity and reduction of wrinkles; the conclusion is that hydrolysed collagen can help to fight the visible signs of ageing.
The benefits of collagen-rich skincare
As well as fine lines and wrinkles, ageing skin is usually accompanied by physical dryness and a dull complexion. Anti-ageing skincare designed to alleviate these symptoms is quite desirable, and collagen is usually a common ingredient found within such premium products.
Beauty supplements containing collagen alongside other ingredients, such as biotin which maintains healthy hair and skin, and vitamin C which helps with normal collagen formation in the skin, are extremely popular. One study concluded that supplements containing collagen can effectively improve the signs of ageing, and preclinical studies also suggest that such supplements improve skin barrier function and promote fibroblast growth.
Taking a collagen supplement in conjunction with topical products that contain supporting ingredients is also beneficial to skin health. Trifluoracetyl tripepetide-2 has been seen to improve skin elasticity and decrease progerin (a harmful protein) in fibroblasts; this helps to increase firmness and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Yeast extract helps support collagen synthesis, while whey protein revitalises the skin by increasing its smoothness and firmness.
Ingredients known for their moisturising and hydrating properties are also effective at supporting collagen. Dehydrated and parched skin will look dull and lifeless but as soon as you add moisture, skin will plump out, reducing the appearance of fine lines.
Two impressive anti-ageing collagen products that work in synergy include Forever’s Firming Complex, a supplement, and Firming Serum, a powerful moisturiser. The beauty supplement is rich in collagen-loving ingredients and the supporting topical serum promises to increase the appearance of skin firmness. The serum also works as a protective barrier to guard the skin from environmental damage that may harm natural collagen production, while the supplement delivers collagen back into skin to replace what may have been lost. When used together, these two products introduce collagen to skin from the inside out – just what you need if you’re hoping to slow down the signs of ageing.
Have you ever tried collagen products? Let us know how you got on in the comments below.
You may already be aware that Forever’s Sonya Daily Skincare products all work together as a system. So too, do Forever’s Infinite by Forever Advanced Skincare System products. It’s in the name, right...
You may already be aware that Forever’s Sonya Daily Skincare products all work together as a system. So too, do Forever’s Infinite by Forever Advanced Skincare System products. It’s in the name, right? But actually, what you may not know is that all of Forever’s skincare products have been specifically designed to work with each other, so that you can create your own highly personalised skincare regime.
Whilst our Infinite by Forever products are great for dry skin or ageing skin, and our Sonya Daily Skincare products are excellent for oily or combination skin, Forever’s targeted skincare products are individuals, created to target specific skincare concerns. This means that they are great for incorporating alongside the ranges, but you can also just as easily pick and choose your favourites from any of the Forever skincare products to create your perfect skincare routine. You just need to consider a few things first…
Define your skin type
Before you can create your skincare regime, you need to get to know your skin. Once you know what your skin is like, you’ll know how to choose the best skincare products for it.
There are three skin types: oily, dry and combination. Oily skin generally has an all-over tacky feeling with a noticeable shine. Dry skin on the other hand, is characterised by dehydrated or rough patches, flakiness and tightness. If you’re reading this and you don’t feel like your skin fits into either category, then you probably have combination skin. Combination skin has a mixture of dry and oily areas, generally resulting in an oily T-zone with areas of dryness. Although we’ve all heard the phrase thrown about before, ‘normal’ skin does not exist, so you’ll want to look for combination skincare products if that’s how you’ve previously defined your skin.
Identify skin concerns
As well as choosing your skin type, you may also want to be aware of specific skin concerns. For instance, you might have sensitive skin or your skin may require an exfoliator. Forever’s targeted skincare products have been created to target these concerns, allowing you to pinpoint exactly what you want your skincare routine to achieve.
If you identify your skin as sensitive, you may find that products with ‘parfum’ can exacerbate your sensitivity. In this case, it’s best to choose products that are fragrance free. Thankfully, Forever’s Sonya Daily Skincare and Infinite by Forever Advanced Skincare System products are all fragrance free. Instead of adding parfum, Forever allows the natural scent of botanicals to shine through, meaning you don’t need to worry about extra sensitivity.
Choose the areas of your skin you want to target
These areas may be influenced by your skincare concerns from above, but they are not limited to them. Choosing the particular areas you’d like to target will help you to determine the best skincare products to include in your daily routine.
For instance, if you have fairer skin or you want to make sure your skin gets that little bit of extra protection from the sun, you might want to include a bit of SPF in your skincare. In this case, you might incorporate Protecting Day Lotion into your routine. This silky cream contains over twenty skin-conditioning ingredients and shields your skin from harmful UV rays due to its broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 20. You may also be looking to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, dark circles and puffiness around your eyes. For striking, bright and beautiful eyes that sparkle all day long, Awakening Eye Cream is a good choice.
This is also a good time to take a general note of what types of products you like to include in your daily routine. For example, if you are a big fan of toner, incorporate a toner after cleansing; if you love the effects of an exfoliator, ensure you include exfoliator. Your routine should be unique to you, and that’s why with Forever’s skincare products, you can mix and match whichever products you like until you’re happy.
Pick your skin care products
Once you’ve identified your skin type, skin concerns, the areas you want to target and the types of skin care products you want to use. The best skincare routines usually start with a cleanser to wash away dirt, oils and makeup and Forever has two to choose from. For combination or oily skin, Forever’s Sonya Refreshing Cleanser contains acacia concinna fruit extract which helps remove dead cell build up, dirt and makeup for a thorough and gentle clean. Alternatively, for dry or ageing skin, Infinite Hydrating Cleanser is full of potent, naturally derived ingredients like apple extract, apple amino acid and cocoa fatty acids that increase skin hydration and gently wash away dirt and oil without drying.
If you have combination or oily skin, you might want to follow up your cleanser with Balancing Toner. This toner minimises the appearance of pores and hydrates the skin before moisturising. Simply apply a generous amount to a cotton ball or pad and apply to your face and neck.
Next, a great product for all skin types is Sonya Illuminating Gel. Containing a combination of five Asian botanicals, including liquorice root, Sonya Illuminating Gel evens and brightens the appearance of overall skin tone to leave you with a soft, smooth complexion and a healthy glow. If your skin is naturally dry, you may want to then follow up with Infinite Firming Serum. Paired with powerful natural ingredients and our patented aloe, this serum makes skin feel smooth and firm, and your complexion appear visibly younger.
Now it’s a great time to get out your moisturiser. With over ten natural plant extracts and oils, hydrolysed collagen and apple fruit extract, Sonya Soothing Gel Moisturiser gives combination and oily skin the powerful soothing and moisturising properties it craves. But for those with dry or ageing skin, who require a deeper moisturiser, give Infinite Restoring Crème a go. This impressive cream absorbs fast to leave skin feeling moisturised and smooth, whilst powerful botanicals including acai and pomegranate help to reinforce the skin’s natural barrier, replenish parched skin and reduce the appearance of ageing.
After moisturising, you can use Awakening Eye Cream to smooth and firm delicate under-eye skin. Thanks to peptide technology, collagen and other powerful ingredients, this cream helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, dark circles and puffiness. Simply use your ring fingers to gently dab a moderate amount below and around the eye area (these fingers put the least pressure on your face when applying).
Certain skincare products are not suitable for use every day of the week, but that doesn’t mean that you should leave them out altogether. Treat yourself two-to-three times a week with an Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask. Through a process unique to Forever, this mask’s formula fuses pure aloe and seagrass with the bio-cellulose fabric to soothe, soften and condition skin. You can also refresh your skin with Smoothing Exfoliator two-to-three times a week. Instead of artificial microbeads, this gentle exfoliator uses natural jojoba beads and bamboo powder to remove dead skin cells without harming the skin or the environment, and added lemon essential oil works as a rich moisturiser to hydrate the new skin beneath the surface.
In the end, the best skincare products to use are the ones that suit your skin type and your needs. Forever has a wide range of skincare suited to all skin types and being able to mix and match the products means that you can tailor your own regime so that you can feel happy in your own skin.
Which Forever skincare products do you use? Let us know in the comments.
Professional dancer, choreographer, yoga teacher and former Strictly Come Dancing star Kristina Rihanoff is no stranger to quality products, and when it comes to decent skincare, the health-conscious...
Professional dancer, choreographer, yoga teacher and former Strictly Come Dancing star Kristina Rihanoff is no stranger to quality products, and when it comes to decent skincare, the health-conscious star knows what she likes and what works for her. We caught up with Kristina to learn more about why she considers her Forever skincare routine to be the best skincare over other brands.
Why is skincare important to you?
Kristina: As a person in the public eye I have always tried to look after myself. I wear lots of makeup when I have social appearances, when I meet people and do my classes, so skincare has always been a big part of my daily regime. The older I get, the more I am trying to be thorough with that; obviously as you age you need to start introducing anti-ageing properties and hydrating properties, so that’s something that’s very important to me.
Have you always had an established skincare routine?
Kristina: I’ve always had some kind of skincare routine as years of competing meant I had to wear quite heavy makeup. As a result, I became very thorough when it comes to cleansing my skin, using scrubs and introducing hydrating products.
Why do you like forever’s skincare products?
Kristina: I’ve been connected to Forever Living for five years now and I love aloe vera products, particularly the drinking gels. I’m quite conscious about what I put into my body as well as on to my body, so the skincare was really a continuation of this. I love the Forever Aloe Vera Gel; aloe is great for shiny, glowing skin and nails, plus the drink has added vitamin C which contributes to normal collagen formation. I really feel like it enhances my complexion, but it also complements the Infinite by Forever skincare products I use. The properties of aloe vera are very healing and moisturising and it suits my skin really well.
When Infinite came out two years ago, I absolutely fell in love with the products and I still use the kit, morning and evening. I feel like it’s a wonderful base for makeup, because it’s not too heavy, and it also has good moisturising properties. My skin feels nice when I go to bed after I’ve taken off my makeup!
What’s your favourite forever skincare product?
Kristina: To be honest I use the whole Infinite skincare system together so it’s hard to pinpoint a favourite, but I absolutely love the Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask. This is my go-to product on days when I have to be in public a lot, if I have a guest appearance, you know, things like that. I honestly love it, 1000%, I think it’s an absolutely amazing product!
How do you feel in yourself since you swapped to using forever skincare products?
Kristina: It makes me feel good because when I look at my skin, I can see that it’s in good condition, and that’s because of the products I use. I can really see the inside-out effect working and, like most women, if you use good skincare and take care of your skin, that will make you feel more confident.
How do you feel about being a forever brand ambassador?
Kristina: I’ve been an Ambassador for Forever Living for five years and it’s an absolutely amazing company to be with. I always look forward to seeing new products and how the products develop – it’s always so exciting! It’s a very organic relationship and I’m so passionate about it; whenever I do my own yoga sessions, a wellbeing session and various other events, I’m always so excited to talk about the products. I use them every day and I use them for me, so I can honestly tell people about my experience with the company and with the products.
Have you ditched old products in favour of Forever? Let us know your skincare routine in the comments below.
According to the Mental Health Foundation's 2018 study (on over 4000 people), stress affects 74% of people in the UK, and with April being stress awareness month it got us thinking about the connectio...
According to the Mental Health Foundation's 2018 study (on over 4000 people), stress affects 74% of people in the UK, and with April being stress awareness month it got us thinking about the connection between stress and our skin's appearance and ability to glow.
We all handle stress differently, therefore stressed skin can look different for everyone, but generally stressed skin often looks dull, flaky, and dry; it can feel tight and you could experience a sudden acne breakout which is not what we want when we lead busy lives. We need to remember that our skin is the body’s largest organ and when you’re stressed it fails to get the nutrients it needs to repair itself. But do not fear, here are some easy tips to make your skin glow and get your skincare routine back on track.
Relax with a fabric face mask
What better way to increase your skin's glow than with an aloe-infused face mask that literally seeps aloe vera goodness directly into your pores? Unlike traditional masks, this fabric Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask fuses aloe and seagrass between bio-cellulose fibres to ensure deep moisturisation that penetrates every fine line and wrinkle, soothing and conditioning skin.
Experience yoga
Yoga increases your circulation and, as you flow through yoga poses, it will help to get blood and oxygen circulating through your body. When your circulation is increased and things are moving more efficiently through your body, you’re more likely to handle stress better, feel energised, and this will improve your skin’s glow.
Let your skin sleep
A 2013 study, Cues of Fatigue: Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Facial Appearance, has found that sleep deprivation affects features relating to the eyes, mouth, and skin. Your body boosts blood flow to the skin which means your skin can heal itself while you snooze, and this means you may wake up with a healthy glow.
In fact, to enhance your skin even more while you sleep, apply Forever’s Sonya Refining Gel Mask 2-3 times a week before bedtime. As the cool gel quickly absorbs into your skin, you’ll feel the moisturising effect of our rich, stabilised aloe vera gel, and moisturisers like apple fruit extract and clover flower extract will leave your skin feeling soft with a youthful glow.
Drink your way to glowing skin
We know that probably the most common skincare hack you’ll ever hear is to drink water, and this is brilliant news since it’s a simple solution that’s accessible to all. Water keeps you hydrated and flushes out toxins, and hence it results in healthier looking skin. The NHS recommends 6-8 glasses of water a day.
You can also tackle skin from the inside out with our trusted Forever Aloe Vera Gel. Aloe can benefit skin, hair and nails, and since this gel is 99.7% pure, its purifying properties can work from within to give you that beautiful aloe glow.
Don’t forget the superfoods!
What you put in your body is just as important as what you put on your skin. There are some really simple, yet powerful foods we can eat to take control of our skin problems. Some of these superfoods include eggs, avocado, blueberries, quinoa, broccoli, spinach and kale so make sure you stock up. To find out more read our Benefits of free foods blog.
Do you have any tips for making your skin glow? Let us know in the comments.
It can get tiring covering up skin imperfections with makeup every day, and while skincare products can help to minimise the appearance of flaws, treating your skin from the inside out may help to giv...
It can get tiring covering up skin imperfections with makeup every day, and while skincare products can help to minimise the appearance of flaws, treating your skin from the inside out may help to give you the beautifully flawless complexion you crave.
One of the most effective ways to feed your skin goodness is through your diet. Healthy food choices will provide your skin with essential nutrients that enable bodily processes to work properly, and since your skin is an organ just like your heart and lungs, your diet should be taken seriously if you’re to embrace healthy looking skin.
How Does Diet Affect Skin?
The food you consume is doing far more than satisfying your taste buds and providing you with much needed energy; it can also lead to you flaunting a glowing complexion. Dermatologist Dr Jessica Wu says, “Foods get digested and broken down into vitamins, minerals and amino acids that your body can use to build healthy skin. If you crash diet or eat highly processed foods, your skin won’t be as strong and supple as it could be. For example, if you don’t eat enough protein, you are depriving your skin of the amino acids that go into making collagen (which makes your skin strong) and elastic tissue (which makes it supple).”
Collagen and elastin are two essential proteins that are naturally found in skin but as you age these diminish and become less effective – this can lead to fine lines and wrinkles. However, if you eat a varied diet that’s rich in vitamin C, you may help your natural collagen production since vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin.
Eating a diet that’s rich in antioxidants may also lead to healthy-looking skin by helping to slow the signs of ageing. Antioxidant vitamins, including copper, B2, vitamin C and zinc, work by protecting cells from oxidative stress. Environmental factors like pollution can cause oxidative stress by introducing irritants to your body. These irritants can damage proteins, including the proteins that help to keep skin smooth and firm. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are all favourable sources of antioxidant nutrients.
Ageing is not the only skin concern you can tackle with diet. If you suffer from an uneven skin tone, you may find that increasing your intake of foods containing copper helps to even your complexion. Copper contributes to normal skin pigmentation and can be found naturally in meats, vegetables and grains. The average healthy person will have 110mg of copper in their body, 15% of which should be found in their skin.
There are also several nutrients that have been proven to contribute to the maintenance of normal skin. ‘Normal skin’, in this case, is skin that can be described as having small pores, even tone and having the right moisture balance so it’s not too oily or too dry. Vitamin A, zinc, iodine and various B vitamins have all been identified to support skin in this way and if you eat a varied, balanced diet that doesn’t restrict any food groups, you are likely to consume all these skin-loving nutrients.
Supplement Your Skincare Routine
If you’re concerned your diet isn’t varied enough, you may wish to add supplements containing the nutrients needed for healthy skin to your daily routine. Simply choosing multivitamins that are high in the skin-loving nutrients mentioned may be sufficient in improving your skin’s health, but you may also wish to try a specially engineered beauty supplement that has been designed to target specific skincare needs.
Beauty supplements are increasing in popularity thanks to their ability to aid collagen production and target ageing. According to a report by market research firm Goldstein Research, global beauty supplement sales are set to reach $6.8 billion by the end of 2024 (nearly double what they were in 2016). People are becoming more aware of the importance of wellness, the days of hiding vitamins at the back of the medicine cupboard are behind us, and millennials proudly display pill pots on desks in the office. Supplement choices define who a person wants to become and at a time when convenient living puts us at risk of mineral deficiencies, this upward trend can only be positive.
If you’re concerned that your fast-paced lifestyle is stealing nutrients from your skin and causing premature ageing amongst other skin complaints, you may want to try a high-quality beauty supplement. Forever Living’s Firming Complex cleverly combines vitamin C and biotin – one of the essential B vitamins for skin health – with marine collagen. Together these ingredients work to fight the appearance of ageing by protecting cells from oxidative stress, assisting with collagen formation and helping to maintain normal skin. Firming Complex should be taken each morning alongside topical products as part of an everyday skincare routine.
Aloe is another ingredient that your skin will love and if you drink it, you’ll benefit from its nutritious power from the inside out. Aloe’s relationship with healthy skin is not a new concept – most people know that the ancient Egyptians often bathed in aloe gel in the hope it would keep them looking youthful – but more recent research supports the idea that aloe can complement your skincare regime.
When choosing aloe vera products, you do need to look carefully at ingredients as sometimes the percentage of aloe is a lot lower than you think. Dr Jennifer Gordon, a board-certified dermatologist from Austin, Texas, cautions consumers, stating, “If the percentage of aloe vera is low, that means it contains many other additives, such as thickeners, preservatives, colours, and fragrance.” This could impact the role of the aloe and your complexion may not end up as glowing as you initially hoped. One aloe vera product you can trust is Forever Aloe Vera Gel. This drinking gel contains 99.7% pure aloe vera gel, it’s sugar free and it’s free from additives and preservatives. So, if healthy skin is what you’re after, the cleansing formula contained within Forever Aloe Vera Gel’s bright yellow bottle will make the perfect companion to your skincare routine.
The Outside Matters Too
Once you’ve addressed your diet and you’re consciously adding all the goodness into your skin from the inside, you want to ensure you do what you can on the outside to prevent undoing all your good work.
It’s therefore important to choose topical products with ingredients that will protect your skin from moisture loss as well as preventing harmful pollutants from penetrating the skin’s surface. This is another area where aloe vera comes up trumps. Dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon Dr Joel Schlessinger says that, when applied topically, aloe works as a glue, causing the top layer of skin cells to stick together so that moisture is locked into skin.
All of Forever’s skincare products contain a healthy dose of aloe; in fact, this is the foundation ingredient. Other botanicals, essential oils, fruit extracts and proteins are then added to the aloe to create impressive formulas that have been scientifically developed for healthy skin. If you’re not sure which skincare products to use, our recent article should help you to identify the right skincare for your age.
If ageing is your primary concern, Infinite by Forever skincare introduces essential ingredients that protect your skin from the outside in. The cleanser assists your skin’s barrier function to fight against tightness and dryness, and linoleic acid and vitamin E support lipids to help break down dirt and debris. A powerful serum boosts the power of aloe with a clinically tested ingredient, trifluoracetyl tripepetide-2; in clinical tests, this single ingredient significantly improved skin elasticity and is known to combat progerin, a harmful protein that increases as you age and wreaks havoc on your skin. By mimicking natural skin processes, this three-amino acid peptide increases the appearance of firmness and reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles. To finish off, a restoring cream with a formula that boasts an innovative sugar structure, improves skin’s water barrier and moisture retention. These three products, when taken alongside Forever’s beauty supplement, properly equip skin with what it needs to fight the signs of ageing. Read our blog for more tips on how to stop skin from ageing.
If you’re more concerned with achieving a healthy, glowing complexion, Forever’s Sonya Daily Skincare range may be up your street. This range focuses on balancing your skin’s natural pH with a cleanser that cleans without stripping the skin of moisture, an illuminating gel to brighten skin and reduce the appearance of pores, an overnight mask that nourishes as you sleep and a moisturiser that melts into skin, leaving behind a dewy complexion.
Have you tried any of these solutions for glowing skin? Let us know in the comments.
Most people would love to discover a miraculous and non-invasive solution that stops skin from ageing, but the reality is that ageing is a natural process that we all face and unfortunately this means...
Most people would love to discover a miraculous and non-invasive solution that stops skin from ageing, but the reality is that ageing is a natural process that we all face and unfortunately this means it cannot be avoided. That said, there are many preventative measures that you can put in place that slow the ageing process, but to fully understand how these affect skin ageing, you need to fully digest why skin ages in the first place. So, if you wish to grow old gracefully, the following skincare tips will help to prepare you for the years ahead.
Why Does Skin Age?
Understanding why skin ages requires getting your head around the structure of the skin. Skin is made up of an epidermis – the top layer of skin that’s exposed, the dermis – the layer underneath the epidermis that contains collagen fibres, and the hypodermis which is primarily fat.
The epidermis protects everything underneath from environmental damage since it is waterproof and able to warrant off bacteria, and the dermis contains cells that give your skin its structure and flexibility. As well as collagen and connective tissues, sweat glands, hair follicles and sebaceous glands reside within the dermis; sebaceous glands produce natural oils that hydrate and soften skin while killing unwelcome bacteria.
Two types of ageing can affect the skin: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic ageing happens from within the skin naturally as you age: the cells in the dermis reduce, the connection between the epidermis and dermis flattens and collagen production lessens. Skin that has been affected by intrinsic ageing will be drier than younger skin, less elastic and with some fine lines. Intrinsic ageing is a lot harder to tackle than extrinsic ageing, ageing that’s caused by environmental factors such as smoking, diet, pollution and UV light. Deep wrinkles, rougher texture and a loss of elasticity are all caused by extrinsic ageing.
When the skin ages, cell production decreases; in fact, after the age of twenty, it will have dropped by 50%. As the epidermis ages, cells that are responsible for preventing sun damage and bacterial invasions lessen, and the epidermis begins stealing nutrients from the dermis below. Your skin also starts to look drier because the stratum corneum (dead cells that work as an outer barrier on the epidermis) is not replaced as promptly.
The dermis is also made up of cells, most notably fibroblasts. Fibroblasts synthesise collagen, elastin and other structural molecules. Collagen, a protein, gives strength and support to skin, but age causes these well-ordered fibres to become messy and production also slows. Elastin fibres are what help young skin to regain shape, but these can also become disconnected from the collagen fibres as you age. As a result, skin begins to lose elasticity and wrinkles form.
What Can Slow The Ageing Process?
The good news is, you are in control of how quickly your skin ages (within reason) and there are solutions to ageing that you can proactively implement. You can slow the intrinsic ageing process to some extent by using products containing ingredients that replace some of the diminished proteins found naturally in the skin, and you can tackle extrinsic ageing instantly by making a few simple lifestyle changes.
If you’re a smoker, you’ll want to nip that in the bud straight away as cigarettes will only adversely affect your skin. In fact, experts argue that smokers look 1.4 years older than non-smokers and deep lines around your lips will giveaway your habit as your skin matures.
You can protect your skin from pollution by using a decent moisturiser. Nasties hidden within smog, dirt and dust attack cells and strip the skin of moisture, and this can lead to fine lines and wrinkles as the skin ages. A high-quality cleanser will soon remove any unwanted debris and moisturiser will add a protective barrier to your skin to stop pollution penetrating the dermis below.
The sun has a lot to answer for when it comes to ageing skin, and ultraviolet rays can even cause damage through windscreens which is why sometimes you see people with deep wrinkles on just one side of their face. The reason the sun affects the skin so much is because the skin is actually trying to protect everything underneath it from becoming damaged. Melanin, the skin pigment that causes a ‘suntan’, is produced as a defence mechanism (not to make you look more attractive), but overtime production can cause skin to lose its elasticity and ultimately, this leads to premature ageing! You can easily protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen, covering up with loose clothing, wearing a hat and seeking shade.
Unfortunately, the correlation between diet and skin health is not a myth. Dr Ariel Ostad from the American Academy of Dermatology says, “What you eat affects your skin – for better or worse”. The worse refers to premature skin ageing as well as a poor complexion, but thankfully diet is an extrinsic factor that can easily be controlled. Sugary snacks, greasy meals, processed meat, alcohol, salty and spicy foods, caffeine and trans fats can – if consumed consistently – introduce antioxidants, impact collagen cells and affect moisture retention in the skin. The occasional indulgence is fine but really you want to be choosing foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, including fresh fruit and veg, fatty fish, nuts and seeds. Vitamins C, E and A, B vitamins, iodine and copper are all beneficial* to the skin.
How Do Anti-ageing Products Work?
Anti-ageing products basically work by combining specific ingredients that can be absorbed by the epidermis to minimise the signs of ageing. These might be naturally occurring proteins that the skin loses with age, formulas that work as a protective barrier against extrinsic factors, natural botanicals that contain skin-loving ingredients or scientifically enhanced peptides.
According to a study funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia, sunscreen is one of the most effective anti-ageing ingredients available. Participants in the study who used sunscreen daily showed no detectable increase in skin ageing after 4.5 years and their skin had aged 24% less than those outside of the group. This is an impressive statistic but if you feel regular sunscreen is too heavy, choose skincare products that contain broad spectrum sunscreen as an added ingredient and wear them daily underneath your makeup (not as sunscreen on the beach). Broad spectrum sunscreen will protect you against both UVA and UVB rays and these harmful rays can penetrate your skin even on cloudy days. UVA rays are longer than UVB rays which means they can penetrate deep into the dermis – it is these rays that cause skin ageing. UVB rays are shorter and are the rays responsible for causing the epidermis to burn.
When considering anti-ageing products, you want to choose something that combines active ingredients with a rich moisturiser. Moisturisers add water into the skin, sealing it in with creams and oils. This protective barrier prevents water from evaporating; water retention plumps skin which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
We’ve already spoken a little bit about the role of collagen and how it diminishes with age, but did you know that you can add collagen back into your skin? Collagen supplements and creams containing collagen can help top up what’s been lost, and some anti-ageing products also contain ingredients that support collagen formation such as vitamin C and yeast extract. These products will help to firm skin so that it appears visibly younger.
Similarly, sodium hyaluronate, the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid, is a favourable anti-ageing ingredient. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in the human body, but it’s also another molecule that reduces during the ageing process. This molecule helps improve skin hydration to plump and lift skin, so make sure you choose a moisturising serum that’s high in the stuff.
Finally, you want to choose anti-ageing products that utilise the goodness found within nature itself. Natural botanicals are rich in age-fighting ingredients such as antioxidant vitamins** that protect cells from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can damage cells so that they work inefficiently and since a lot of the cells that relate to skin also lessen as you age, oxidative stress is something you definitely want to avoid.
Another natural ingredient to look out for is aloe vera gel. Aloe is an adaptogen, which means it helps skin adapt to itself; a carrier, which means it can carry other anti-ageing ingredients to deeper layers of the skin; and a humectant, which means it aids in moisture retention. Aloe is also high in nutrients that are beneficial for skin health. You can drink pure aloe vera gel to supplement your skincare routine but it is also often used as an ingredient in topical products. Forever’s anti-ageing skincare range Infinite by Forever boasts formulas that elevate the performance of aloe so that the aloe can effectively promote healthy, younger-looking skin.
Click here to explore more of Forever’s anti-ageing skincare products.
*Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of the skin; vitamin E contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress; vitamin A boosts skin radiance by increasing and normalising skin cell turnover; riboflavin (B12), niacin (B3), biotin (B7) and iodine contribute to the maintenance of normal skin; copper contributes to normal pigmentation in skin.
**Copper, manganese, riboflavin, selenium, vitamin C, vitamin E and zinc contribute to the protection of cells from oxidative stress.
What do you do or use to slow the ageing process of skin? Let us know by commenting below.
As creatures of habit, many people continue their teenage skincare routine well into adulthood, but unfortunately, it’s unlikely that the cleanser and moisturiser that worked for you when you were sev...
As creatures of habit, many people continue their teenage skincare routine well into adulthood, but unfortunately, it’s unlikely that the cleanser and moisturiser that worked for you when you were seventeen will continue to do your skin justice when you are pushing fifty. It’s nothing personal, it’s just that your skin changes dramatically over the years and as you age your skin’s structure, type and needs alter in a way which now demands ingredients and formulas that have been scientifically developed to match your biological age.
If you’re now doubting whether your skincare is suitable for your age, the following information will hopefully help to clear things up – in more ways than one!
Skincare routine for teens
Skin is often the enemy of the average teenager and many find themselves fighting the threat of acne and shine on a daily basis. Problematic skin may be a result of fluctuating hormones, fast food, academic stress or environmental factors, and although some of these influencers may be difficult to control, skincare is one aspect that can be managed.
Out of fear of developing pimples, many teenagers stock up on products with harsh formulas that promise to fight spots, but more often than not these products end up aggravating the problem. Although ridding your skin of spots entirely may be optimistic, particularly if the cause is hormone or diet related, choosing skincare that balances skin may help calm the situation and it will certainly help combat excess shine caused by an oily complexion. Sonya Daily Skincare can be used by anyone over the age of twelve, so it’s ideal for teenagers who suffer from shiny skin. Refreshing Gel Cleanser and Refining Gel Mask are particular favourites, and since they only contain natural fragrances derived from botanicals rather than artificially added aromas, they should not irritate skin further. This skincare range also contains natural oils like cold-pressed baobab oil, and although it may be counter-intuitive to add oil to oily skin, these natural oils are best qualified at cutting through the sebum (oil) that sits on top of the skin.
Best skincare routine for your early twenties
Once you hit your twenties you expect problematic skin to be a distant memory, but unfortunately many young people aged 20-26 continue to be plagued by what could be argued as teenage skin. Skin problems in your twenties may still be brought on by hormone imbalances, but a care-free lifestyle also has a lot to answer for. Frequent partying, binge drinking and late nights that turn into all-nighters will all impact your skin, but you may not see the damage until later in life. That’s why it is essential to protect your skin in your early twenties in the hope that this will lessen any adverse effects caused.
Sonya Daily Skincare is still relevant in your early twenties, particularly as it is effective at combatting fluctuations in the skin. It’s quite likely that you still experience oily days that remind you of your teen years, but now you also have the added bonus of occasional dry patches. This skincare range is designed for combination skin just like this and works to balance the skin’s pH to give you an even complexion. The Illuminating Gel will brighten the appearance of overall skin – perfect after a late night – and Soothing Gel Moisturizer is not too heavy so won’t leave you feeling greasy after application.
It’s also wise to protect your skin with SPF in your twenties as this will help prevent premature skin-ageing. Protecting Day Lotion makes the perfect primer as it contains SPF 20 and protects against UV rays. Wearing SPF under makeup will add a layer of protection that is essential, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors.
Anti-ageing skincare for your mid-twenties and thirties
You may notice a lot of changes in your likes, dislikes and conversation subject matters as you approach your thirties, and unsurprisingly your skin also matures along with your opinions. Collagen, a protein that occurs naturally in your body, begins to deplete by the time you hit 25. 80% of the dermis – the skin that sits underneath the outer layer of skin – is made from collagen, and it’s what helps to give your skin strength and structure. Elastin, another component of skin, is what gives skin its stretch. As you age, these structures weaken and fine lines and wrinkles form, which is why it’s essential to introduce anti-ageing products to your routine at this point in life.
Anti-ageing products often contain collagen and elastin so that you can top up the supply lost by your ageing skin, but they also contain powerful ingredients that have specifically been chosen for their ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines. Forever’s Infinite by Forever Advanced Skincare System is definitely an anti-ageing skin routine that’s worth considering by the time you hit those latter twenties. Its revolutionary formulas target the signs of ageing by adding lost moisture back into skin. The Hydrating Cleanser is full of potent ingredients that cut through dirt without drying your skin and Firming Serum is a rich moisturiser that firms skin thanks to its three-amino acid peptide formula.
As well as anti-ageing, now is the time to add a regular exfoliator to your collection. When you’re young, your skin naturally exfoliates every 28 days but by your thirties this drops considerably. Smoothing Exfoliator will help to remove dead and dry skin to smooth your complexion without harming the environment. Its gentle formula uses natural jojoba beads and bamboo powder, so you don’t need to worry about harmful plastics entering the environment!
Anti-ageing skincare for your fab forties and onwards
By the time you hit your forties, you’ll want to make sure you have an established anti-ageing regime underway. Infinite by Forever Restoring Crème is an absolute must and should be used alongside the Firming Serum. This rich cream contains vitamin B3 to help even skin tone, but its unique formula also works as a barrier to protect the skin from further damage that may cause ageing. Its moisturising properties replenish parched skin and since dry skin is at risk of developing wrinkles, moisturising products are something you want your skin to befriend.
You may have gathered by now that preventing ageing skin often requires you adding something back into the skin, so if you want to up your skincare game, you may want to consider tackling skin ageing from the inside out. Beauty supplements are the perfect way to condition skin from within and Forever’s Firming Complex combines vitamin C with biotin and marine collagen to deliver effective ingredients to where your skin needs it most. Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin, biotin contributes to the maintenance of normal skin and collagen helps give skin its structure and tone.
If you haven’t introduced an eye cream to your skincare routine already, now is the time to treat your tired eyes. Awakening Eye Cream firms under-eye skin, and reduces the appearance of dark circles and crow’s feet to keep your eyes from giving away your age.
Have you switched to anti-ageing skincare yet? Let us know how you are getting on by commenting below.
It doesn’t matter if you’ve fully achieved your goal or if you’ve made slight progress towards what you ultimately want to achieve, if you’ve been implementing good habits that have resulted in notice...
It doesn’t matter if you’ve fully achieved your goal or if you’ve made slight progress towards what you ultimately want to achieve, if you’ve been implementing good habits that have resulted in noticeable improvement, you should be very proud. However, now it’s crunch time which means it’s up to you to decide what happens next. You are in control and can choose whether your newly adopted habitual behaviour will be labelled a passing fling or whether you are going to allow the ‘new you’ to become the ‘regular you’ everyone thinks of in years to come.
If you are determined to maintain the good progress you’ve made, the following steps will help you to stay on track.
Ensure your goals have value
If you’re not fully invested in your goal emotionally, it’s going to be far too easy to give up. What have you got to lose if you don’t achieve your goal? How will you feel if nothing changes? If the answer to these questions is ‘nothing really’ or ‘I’ll manage’, it might be time to reconsider whether your goals carry any real weight and adjust them accordingly. Career goals that affect family members are sometimes easier to keep as they affect other people but if your goal is for yourself, you may be tempted to let it slip away. If you find yourself in this predicament, you could attach extra motivation by linking your goal to some kind of fundraising that raises money for a charity that means something to you. That way, if your goal is to run a 5K, you won’t be tempted to quit training half way through.
Don’t restrict yourself and don’t beat yourself up
Perhaps your goal is to ditch sweet treats in favour of a healthier diet. This is a great idea, but it doesn’t mean you have to go cold turkey! If you’re used to daily desserts and munching on chocolate after dinner, cutting this down so that you only enjoy a treat on a weekend or when you’re out for dinner is still going to have a dramatic impact on your health compared to before. It’s also important that you don’t beat yourself up if you do overindulge. So what if you had one too many Maltesers at the weekend, tomorrow is a new day, so just draw a line and start again. Whatever you do, don’t let a couple of Maltesers ruin your life and don’t use it as an excuse to eat in excess and quit altogether.
Work on one habit at a time
If your goal requires you to make several sudden changes in your life, you run the risk of becoming overwhelmed which will only set you back further. Avoid plastering a time limit to your goal so that unnecessary pressure is removed and instead focus on one element at a time. If, for example, you’ve decided to get up an hour earlier to go for a run before work, start by getting used to the early starts. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your body adjusts and eventually you’ll find that the early start doesn’t feel like such a pain. That’s when you can introduce the run, but again, you should start slow and work your way up.
Embrace motivational messages
Whatever motivates you, embrace it! It could be motivational quotes, affirmations (written by yourself or a friend), a ‘before’ picture or a visual goal board, but whatever it is it needs to feature heavily on the walls of your home and maybe even near your desk at work. Seeing such positive messages every day will help to create the self-belief you need to keep going and conquer what it is you set out to do.
Don’t compare yourself
We are all individuals and yet we somehow feel the need to look at how everyone else is progressing in life as if they are the benchmark for mankind. This unwelcome pressure puts you at risk of feeling like a failure, so it’s important to ignore the achievements of the world around you and focus on yourself. It doesn’t matter how long it takes you to do something, much like it doesn’t matter how old you are when you get that promotion or how many countries you’ve visited by 30, what matters is that you are pursuing what you love and making progress towards whatever it is that you have set your sights upon.
Keep track of progress
If you are the kind of person who is very self-critical and unable to see how far you have come, you may find it helpful to keep a diary that tracks your progress. If your goal is related to weight loss or healthy eating, recording your weight and waist measurements will be an obvious visual representation of progress as time goes by, as will regular photographs that illustrate how your figure has changed. For fitness goals you can record things relating to how long it takes you to do something or how many reps you can achieve in a certain time, but for other goals you may have to keep a diary that outlines mini achievements so that you can easily see how far you’ve come. Whenever you’re feeling low, pick your diary back up and read through – you’ll be at amazed at how much you have achieved without acknowledging it!
Celebrate small wins
Breaking your long-term goal down into smaller goals not only makes the goal feel more attainable, it will also give you a great excuse to celebrate all those small wins you have achieved through the process. Recognising that small progress is essential for the overall picture will help you to stay motivated and you’ll feel far more positive about your situation. Your mindset will shift from ‘look how much I still have to do’ to ‘look how far I have come’, and this is a momentous realisation that will do wonders for your self-confidence.
What helps you to stay on track? Share your ideas by commenting below.
The first quarter of 2019 is coming to an end and that means all the good habits you picked up during the #BeResolute campaign are well and truly embedded into your routine, right? If instead you find...
The first quarter of 2019 is coming to an end and that means all the good habits you picked up during the #BeResolute campaign are well and truly embedded into your routine, right? If instead you find yourself reminiscing about how you spent last weekend sedentary on the sofa eating a takeaway and a family-sized bar of chocolate, you’ll be pleased to hear that there’s still hope. Put that weekend down to a momentary blip, dust yourself off and do whatever you need to do to introduce those good habits back into your life. And, as always, Forever Living is here to help!
Our Vital5 programme contains five nutritional supplements that have been designed to support your overall health, so that you can maintain the good habits you know your body craves. Each pack contains Forever Aloe Vera Gel, Forever Daily, Forever Active Pro-B, Forever Arctic Sea and Argi+. Take each of these supplements alongside a healthy diet and daily exercise programme and you’ll easily get yourself back on track. Read on to discover more on how Vital5 can help you to maintain good habits.
Promote Healthy Digestion
You may be surprised to learn that the state of your digestive health could lead to numerous other health concerns such as extreme fatigue, a weakened immune system, skin issues and metabolism problems. That’s why it’s important to keep your gut in tip-top condition by doing everything you can to ensure stress, diet, and environmental and lifestyle choices don’t send your gastrointestinal health into quandary. Thankfully Vital5 contains Forever Active Pro-B and Forever Aloe Vera Gel, two impressive gut governors!
Forever Active Pro-B is at the forefront of research and each supplement is made up of six synergistic bacteria strains. Each strain goes through thorough testing and has been selected for its ability to bypass stomach acid for optimal delivery into the intestines. Forever Aloe Vera Gel complements every ingredient captured inside Forever Active Pro-B and offers additional digestive support. This fresh-tasting drinking gel contains an incredible 99.7% pure aloe vera and it’s an excellent digestive aid since it supports gastrointestinal health.
Build Immunity
There’s never a good time to catch a cold, but when you are trying to instil good habits, a cold can throw all your good work right out of line. The good news is that a healthier lifestyle will eventually make you less susceptible to catching colds, but before you get there it’s important to put things in place that protect you from this everyday menace.
Your immune system is fragile and demands a constant supply of nutrients to ensure it remains balanced; this is so it can properly defend your body from infectious organisms and other unwelcome substances. Ensuring you feed your body correctly can help boost, strengthen and support your immune system, and thankfully there are many foods that are rich in the vital vitamins and minerals needed to keep your immunity happy and healthy.
Citrus fruits, bell peppers, broccoli, spinach and poultry are all excellent foods to pack into your diet at times when a heightened immune system is important. Each of these items contain vitamins that are essential in helping to maintain the normal function of the immune system, most notably vitamins A and C.
Vitamin A also contributes to the maintenance of normal mucous membranes. Mucous membranes may sound unattractive, but these secretion glands line vital structures in the body to protect the tissue from external factors that may cause harm. Mucous membranes can be found in the mouth, respiratory tract, nose, lungs and other organs. If vitamin A sounds like a nutrient you need in your diet, consider introducing your household to Forever Daily.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant which means it protects cells from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when foreign bodies cause an imbalance in the body, but antioxidants can help the body to neutralise any harmful effects. If you’re after a supplement loaded with vitamin C, Forever Daily and Argi+ are what you need. Forever Aloe Vera Gel also contains vitamin C. This combined with its high aloe content makes Forever Aloe Vera Gel a powerful protector against germs, as aloe also naturally benefits immune health.
Help Your Mental Concentration
Keeping your mind active as you age is absolutely essential if you want to slow natural deterioration, and thankfully there are several important nutrients that specifically benefit your mind.
One nutrient you may not be familiar with is docosahexaenoic acid, also known as DHA. DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid that forms one of the core structural components of the brain; it’s also present in nerve tissues and the eyes. Not many food sources provide DHA but oily fish, seafood and algae are the major omega-3 players if you are looking to up your intake. If fish tends to be absent from your diet, it’s important to ensure that you don’t become deficient in DHA, as although your body will naturally produce the substance, the amount is quite minimal. Forever Arctic Sea contains both the fatty acids DHA and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function, as well as vision and blood triglyceride levels. Both DHA and EPA contribute to the normal function of the heart.
B vitamins are also excellent for one’s mental concentration. Thiamine (vitamin B1), niacin (vitamin B3) and folate (vitamin B9) all contribute to normal psychological function, pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) contributes to normal mental performance, and niacin, folate and pantothenic acid also contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Next time you’re feeling a tad sluggish, you’ll want to reach for foods rich in B vitamins such as meat, fish and nuts. Forever Daily is also high in these B vitamins.
Folate (vitamin B9) and vitamin B12 often work together, so if you are deficient in B12, it’s likely that you’re also deficient in folate. Natural folate is found in foods like spinach, beans and dairy, and folic acid is a synthetic form of the vitamin, which is added to supplements and foods like flour and cereal. Folate and folic acid have the same basic molecular structure, they both function the same in the body and they both offer the same health benefits. For a supplement that combines both vitamin B12 and vitamin B9, choose Argi+.
Beautify Your Skin
Oily skin peppered with blemishes is something everyone hopes to ditch along with other awkward teenage memories, but unfortunately for many, spots continue to pop up long into adulthood. Thankfully it is possible to take a proactive approach to skin health, and one thing you can do is think about what vitamins and minerals you consume.
There are several skin-loving nutrients that your skin will thank you for including biotin (vitamin B7 or vitamin H), niacin (vitamin B3), copper, zinc and vitamins A and C.
Biotin can be found in dairy, veg and nuts; avocados and whole grain cereals are packed with niacin; seafood, organ meats and legumes are natural sources of copper; poultry, shellfish and mushrooms contain zinc, and leafy greens and dairy are great for vitamins A and C. Forever Daily is the winning supplement when it comes to delivering these much-needed vitamins.
When it comes to the role of vitamin C and the skin, this nutrient is more interested in the skin’s function; vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin and teeth. Collagen is an amino acid protein which occurs naturally in the body to give structure and tone to connective tissues, but collagen can deplete with age which means sagging skin and an aged complexion. Forever Aloe Vera Gel is high in vitamin C and aloe itself is also an amazing ingredient when it comes to skin. Not only is aloe soothing on sensitive and irritated skin, it has also been revered for centuries for carrying properties that lead to a beautiful complexion. As a highly-absorbent nutrient, aloe that’s consumed orally can work fast from the inside and incredibly, our Forever Aloe Vera Gel is as close to the natural inner leaf as you can get!
Using products containing natural ingredients has become a hot topic of late, and that’s because advancements in science are identifying hugely beneficial properties tucked away within the fruits and...
Using products containing natural ingredients has become a hot topic of late, and that’s because advancements in science are identifying hugely beneficial properties tucked away within the fruits and flora that decorate our earth. Aloe vera is one of these miracle plants and although it is one that has been recognised for centuries already, its status as king of the succulents is a title it will uphold for as long as it graces this planet! If you’re yet to discover the outstanding benefits of aloe, just read these comments below on what people are saying about aloe vera.
“I have studied aloe vera since 1980 and I think aloe is a miracle plant. The more I research aloe vera, the more I love aloe vera.”
– BANH PHAN, VICE PRESIDENT OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT AT ALOE VERA OF AMERICA
The Inner leaf aloe gel from an Aloe Barbadensis Miller plant is beneficial for humans and animals when consumed as a drink or when used as a topical product, so what exactly can aloe do to boost your...
The Inner leaf aloe gel from an Aloe Barbadensis Miller plant is beneficial for humans and animals when consumed as a drink or when used as a topical product, so what exactly can aloe do to boost your lifestyle?
Aloe vera supports digestion
Digestion is an essential bodily process that takes place in the gut. The process involves the body breaking food down into other substances that are then absorbed into the bloodstream or distributed around the body. However, increasing emerging evidence tells us that the size and complexity of our gut plays a vital role in more than just nutrient absorption; it’s also connected to our immune system, mental health and general wellbeing.
It is therefore essential that you take your digestive health seriously, and there are many things you can do to assist digestion such as healthy eating and regular exercise. Many of these options can however take time before you start seeing results, so while you wait, consider introducing Forever Aloe Vera Gel to your diet. Aloe vera is highly absorbent, and this means it can get to work straight away!
Aloe has been highly acclaimed for its cleansing and purifying properties which is why Forever’s C9 programme revolves around Forever Aloe Vera Gel. This aloe vera product is Forever’s reformulated drinking gel and it now contains a staggering 99.7% pure aloe, and this means it’s the perfect digestive aid. The aloe gel used in this aloe drink is carefully hand-filleted and processed within six hours of its harvest which is why it’s so pure, plus the final formula is preservative-free and contained in recyclable packaging. Drink 60-120ml of Forever Aloe Vera Gel every morning to support gastrointestinal health and to keep your digestive processes in check. This gel is also available in peach (Forever Aloe Peaches) or in cranberry and apple flavour (Forever Aloe Berry Nectar) if you fancy something a little fruitier.
Aloe vera improves skin hydration
You can also tackle skin from the inside out with our trusted Forever Aloe Vera Gel. Aloe can benefit skin, hair and nails, and since this gel is 99.7% pure, its purifying properties can work from within to give you that aloe glow.
Aloe has also been praised for its ability to elevate skincare thanks to its gentle but powerful ability to provide natural moisturisation. Did you know that a global survey in 2017 identified that hydration and moisturisation are the most sought after benefits that people look for from skincare? That’s why Forever decided to harness the power of aloe and combine it with scientifically-proven ingredients to create products that go above and beyond, and these products actually contain ingredients that enhance the efficacy of aloe!
What better way to increase skin hydration than with an aloe-infused face mask that literally seeps aloe goodness directly into your pores? The global market for face masks is predicted to reach $8.8 billion by 2021 and we believe the new Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask is going to make a significant impact in its market this year. Unlike traditional masks, this premium fabric mask fuses aloe and seagrass between bio-cellulose fibres to ensure deep moisturisation that penetrates every fine line and wrinkle, soothing and conditioning skin. This environmentally-friendly mask has also been enriched by a moisturising serum of green tea and horse chestnut that rejuvenates dull skin by combatting the signs of ageing and reducing the appearance of redness. This mask is easy to apply and the fibres fuse to the contours of your face. Leave it on for twenty minutes then dispose of it in the garden to add nutrients to the soil. There’s no need to rinse your skin after removal, simply rub any remaining residue into your complexion to unveil soft, supple and radiant skin.
Aloe vera soothes irritation
The aloe vera plant has been given many colloquial names over the years. You may have heard it referred to as the ‘burn plant’, ‘miracle plant’ or ‘first aid plant’, and this is because of its innate soothing properties and the fact that it has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Forever has captured aloe at its best in Aloe Vera Gelly, a topical gel that is essentially identical to aloe vera’s inner leaf, delivering 84% of pure aloe to the skin. This thick gel can be used to safely lubricate sensitive tissue and to calm irritation. Use it on minor irritations to moisturise, soothe and condition skin without staining clothes. Every household and every first aid kit should contain a tube of Aloe Vera Gelly!
Aloe vera balances your complexion
Skin is a very sensitive organ which is why a very fine, slightly acidic film sits on its surface. This is known as the acid mantle and it works as a barrier to protect skin against bacteria and viruses. Although fluctuations can occur naturally, sometimes the acid mantle is overly sensitive, and it’s thrown completely out of balance. This can be due to harsh cleansers or environmental exposure. Now, we already know that aloe is an amazing skincare ingredient, and one of the reasons it’s so good is because its natural pH is around 5.5, the same pH-value assigned to healthy skin. Aloe is also a ‘carrier’, which means it assists other ingredients so that they can absorb into the skin. These natural benefits of aloe, along with the skin-loving nutrients it blesses us with, have inspired Forever’s gel-based skincare collection, Sonya Daily Skincare. This skincare product works to balance combination skin – that’s skin that’s sometimes dry, sometime oily, sometimes both and sometime neither (often referred to as ‘normal’).
Sonya Daily Skincare consists of four gel-based products that work together to balance skin fluctuations. The products can be used by anyone aged 12-45 who is looking for a skincare range that doesn’t strip the skin of its natural oils. This advanced skincare range uses gel-encapsulation technology to combine ingredients that would otherwise separate, keeping them tight together until they hit the skin. Once on the skin, these ingredients disperse to where they are needed most, melting into the skin like butter. The collection includes a non-drying cleanser (Refreshing Gel Cleanser) that cleans skin with rich antioxidants, an Illuminating Gel that enhances your natural glow by brightening skin tone and minimising pores, a Refining Gel Mask that deeply moisturises and balances skin while you sleep, and a lightweight moisturiser (Soothing Gel Moisturizer) containing hydrolysed collagen to help improve skin buoyancy.
It’s easy to see why many people adore aloe vera now that you know how it can benefit you, and that’s why we’re challenging you to put it to the test. Forever Aloe Vera Gel, Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask, Aloe Vera Gelly and Sonya Daily Skincare all contain the very best of aloe’s inherent properties, and we guarantee you’ll be impressed.
Will you take on the challenge? Let us know in the comments.
I used to find time to go to the gym and workout, but this completely stopped when I started my family. I just did not make time for myself anymore, and if I did go on the occasional jog or attend the...
I used to find time to go to the gym and workout, but this completely stopped when I started my family. I just did not make time for myself anymore, and if I did go on the occasional jog or attend the odd yoga class, I was not consistent enough for it to make a difference. As a busy, married mum of two boys aged 4 and 7, my family comes first and that meant I would often drop my routine in order to care for my children.
To add to this, I have always struggled with my weight. From the age of 18 I tried every other popular weight management programme out there, but I always found myself slipping back into bad habits. I realise now that those programmes were always just about what I was eating, rather than combining diet with exercise, so when I heard about Forever Living’s #BeResolute campaign and the January 24-Day Challenge (which consisted of doing a nine-day body reset followed by a fifteen-day fitness programme), I thought this sounded exactly like what I needed to finally get myself back on track and feeling fitter.
There are various levels of the F15 programme (the fifteen-day fitness plan) depending on your fitness level, but since I had not really done any form of exercise, I started with Beginner Level 1. This can then lead onto Beginner Level 2, Intermediate Level 1 and 2 and Advanced Level 1 and 2.
My hope was that this programme would inspire me to start eating healthily, reset my bad habits and get me exercising. I had also seen photos of myself over Christmas which I was not pleased with; my clothes were getting very tight, too tight, and I was uncomfortable with myself. I noticed I’d slipped into a habit of having a glass of wine most evenings and reaching for the chocolates, and I knew this wasn’t good. My mind was made up and I spoke to a friend about the programme, and as a result we decided to do it together. It was great to have the support and we were able to motivate each other throughout the whole process.
On day one, I asked my husband to take some photos of me – I kept checking back on these images throughout the challenge and I really found this added to my motivation levels. Day one also meant starting the C9 – a nine-day weight management programme that revolves around a purposeful meal plan, gentle exercise, supplements and purifying aloe to cleanse your body, adjust your mindset and stop those bad habits.
The first day of this was probably the toughest but, in my head, I knew it was a mind over matter journey. I also had some cravings but the C9 comes with a list of free foods (fruit and veg) that you can tuck into when you get hunger pangs, so it was great to be able to use this. A medium apple, some cucumber sticks and steamed broccoli – which I love – was all I needed to curb my hunger on day one, although I will admit that I did go to bed early! However, by the time I woke up on day two, I already felt a difference, and it felt good!
After the first two days had past – the two days that are notoriously the most difficult – I found the programme plain sailing. Having two soy-based protein shakes a day (Forever Lite Ultra), plus a 600-calorie healthy meal cooked from scratch, made me feel great. The programme also includes supplements, Forever Garcinia Plus, Forever Therm and Forever Fiber, and these all play a part in assisting bodily processes* so that your body can keep on track by getting what it needs at the right time. Forever Aloe Vera Gel also plays a major role in this whole journey, aiding digestion and supporting immunity. It may have an interesting taste (challenging to some) but WOW, it makes you feel good!
To ensure I didn’t neglect exercise, I enrolled at my friend’s yoga studio. Yoga was something I really got into fifteen years ago, so it was good to try it again. I was also enjoying looking up recipes and getting creative in the kitchen. Some of my favourite meals included chickpea curry, salmon with rice, vegan mince bolognese with wholemeal pasta, and king prawns with wholemeal rice. I chose the vanilla flavour shake and mixed it with non-dairy milk alongside a couple of strawberries. If I did not have strawberries, I would use a couple of tablespoons of frozen berries.
Once the nine-day cleanse was over, I moved on to the F15, and it was great to see specific exercise routines and additional recipes for added inspiration. Having a poached egg with avocado on wholemeal toast was a particular favourite of mine! I also increased my exercise so that once a week I was doing 30 minutes of jogging and two hour-long sessions of hot yoga. I must admit, when I first started the exercises, I thought they were a challenge, but I felt great afterwards and knew it was essential to keep up – it was the mind over matter. My little boy also asked if he could start coming to yoga with me, and it’s amazing to do it together.
At the end of the challenge we took my photo again, and I was so excited to see the difference. My tummy and thighs felt more toned and my clothes were not as tight. I felt I looked better and I also felt stronger in myself. Having a friend do this alongside me helped as we kept each other boosted and we were able to inspire each other with different meal ideas.
Now that the programme has finished, I am continuing to attend the yoga classes with my son, I’m jogging once or twice a week and I am certainly eating more healthily. I am also saving that glass of wine for the weekends and the chocolate cravings have stopped altogether!
I would most definitely repeat this programme when and if I need to in the future and I’m looking forward to being able to start with the intermediate level next time. I highly recommend the Forever F.I.T. Programme to anyone who wants to look and feel better – it’s really flexible and can work for anyone.
*Forever Garcinia Plus is high in chromium. Chromium contributes to the normal macronutrient metabolism and to the maintenance of normal blood glucose levels. Forever Fiber is for digestive health; it’s high in fibre and low in saturated fat. Forever Therm is high in vitamins C, B2, B6, B12, niacin, folic acid, pantothenic acid. All these vitamins, amongst other things, contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Vitamin C also contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of cartilage and bones; vitamin B6 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism; B2 protects the cells from oxidative stress; folate contributes to normal blood formation and psychological function, and B12 and niacin contribute to normal function of the nervous system.
What’s your favourite meal plan when following the F.I.T. programme? Let us know in the comments.
If you’re focusing on your fitness goals this year, whether you’d like to build muscle or consume a healthier diet, protein shakes are a must! Not only do they form a vital part of Forever’s fitness p...
If you’re focusing on your fitness goals this year, whether you’d like to build muscle or consume a healthier diet, protein shakes are a must! Not only do they form a vital part of Forever’s fitness programmes C9 and F15, but they also help to fuel your workouts and satisfy your hunger between meals. In just a couple of minutes, you can make a super easy Forever Lite Ultra soy protein shake that tastes great and nourishes your body with just a few ingredients. Here are a few of Forever’s favourite protein shake recipes for you to enjoy anytime of the year…
Strawberry and raspberry with Forever Lite Ultra chocolate
This high-protein shake is nice and simple, but it does not skimp on flavour one bit due to its creamy texture and chocolate taste. Both berries are also an excellent source of fibre, folate and potassium.
1 scoop of chocolate Forever Lite Ultra
250ml of almond milk
130g of fresh or frozen raspberries and strawberries
Blitz in a blender
Serve in a glass with ice
1 scoop of vanilla Forever Lite Ultra
130g of fresh or frozen pineapple and peach slices
Blitz in a blender
Serve in a glass with ice
1 scoop of vanilla Forever Lite Ultra
250ml of almond milk
130g of fresh or frozen mango slices
1 medium ripe avocado
Blitz in a blender
Serve in a glass with ice
If regular fitness and exercise is something you shifted up a gear in January, your body is likely to be feeling the effects of the workout. Aches and strains are absolutely normal and likely a good s...
If regular fitness and exercise is something you shifted up a gear in January, your body is likely to be feeling the effects of the workout. Aches and strains are absolutely normal and likely a good sign as these sensations indicate that your routine is at the right level of challenge to make an impact on your muscles and waistline.
If you’ve decided to keep on going with your routine throughout February and beyond, first of all, well done! Not everyone is as determined as you to achieve their goals so you should be very proud. And now that you have begun to establish a routine, it’s important to ensure that you have the right nutrition in place to support you during your workout. This blog will examine some of the vitamins and minerals required to keep your bones, muscles and bodily systems happy as you exercise, so that you can continue to #BeResolute and hit the gym regularly.
Calcium, vitamin D and magnesium
Most people know that calcium is good for your bones but actually, vitamin D and magnesium also play essential supporting roles and, in many cases, calcium would struggle without their assistance! It’s also not just your bones that benefit from these nutrients, your muscles also profit from a piece of the action.
Calcium, vitamin D and magnesium all contribute to the maintenance of normal muscles and bones; two body parts that have had a hammering over the last month if exercise is new to your agenda. Calcium is found in dairy products like milk and cheese, but foods like tinned sardines (with bones), okra, kale and broccoli are also excellent sources. When it comes to the muscles, calcium’s role is to regulate contractions, and this includes your heartbeat – another reason why it’s essential if you’ve taken up strenuous exercise! The average adult needs 700mg of calcium a day and a deficiency in this macromineral could lead to muscle weakness, bone pain and partial fractures.
Vitamin D facilitates calcium’s absorption and a study published by The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association identifies that vitamin D cannot be metabolised efficiently unless an adequate amount of magnesium is also in the system, so all three of these nutrients depend on the other in order to properly fulfill their duties. Vitamin D is found in fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, and magnesium can be sourced from potatoes, spinach and tomatoes.
Forever Living offers several great products that can help boost your vitamin and macromineral intake this February. Argi+ is the perfect sports drink to carry with you while you exercise as it’s high in vitamin D and if you chuck a Forever Fast Break bar in your gym bag to eat with your Argi+, you’ll gain all three of these mighty nutrients during your workout. A Forever Lite Ultra shake in chocolate or vanilla also makes for a delicious treat post workout, plus it’s high in all three of these muscle and bone-loving nutrients to ensure you are fully covered.
Protein
Fitness fanatics’ favourite food group should not be dismissed as a fad, because protein actually does play a major role in your body, and one that’s especially important during exercise. Protein contributes to the growth in and maintenance of muscle mass, and also in the maintenance of normal bones. That’s why it’s often favoured after a workout to help with repair and recovery.
The recommended daily allowance of protein is 46g for women and 56g for men, and Forever Lite Ultra provides a whopping 24g when made with skimmed milk. You can make up the rest with all sorts of delicious foods including eggs, chicken, oats, Greek yoghurt, broccoli, tuna and quinoa.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that does an immense amount for your body, particularly when it comes to growth and development. Since it’s water-soluble, vitamin C cannot be stored, and this means you need to constantly top up your daily supply.
The best sources of vitamin C can be obtained from a wide array of fruits and vegetables – another reason why it’s so important to eat your five-a-day! In terms of exercise, there are many benefits to ensuring your diet is high in this vitamin: vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of bones and cartilage, and also to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. In addition, if you consume 200mg, it will specifically help to maintain normal immune function after intense physical exercise.
The NHS state that adults aged 19-64 need at least 40mg of vitamin C a day, however consuming over this (but below 1,000mg) shouldn’t do you any harm – your body will just expel what’s not used. You certainly shouldn’t have a problem obtaining this minimum allowance if you eat a diet that’s rich in fruit and veg, but it’s useful to know that some fruit juices are also excellent sources of vitamin C. Be warned however, juices are often high in sugar and other additives or preservatives. Thankfully, Forever Living’s aloe drinking gels (Forever Aloe Vera Gel, Forever Aloe Peaches and Forever Berry Nectar) offer numerous health benefits, including a high dose of vitamin C, but these drinks are free from preservatives, additives and high amounts of sugar.
Another product that may be useful in assisting your exercise regime is Forever Therm. Forever Therm plays a significant role in Forever’s weight management programmes, including the C9 and F15, and that’s because it’s high in vitamin C and other nutrients, including vitamins B6 and B12.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates have unfairly been branded the nemesis of the healthy-eater in recent years, but this vital macronutrient actually plays an essential role, both as you work out and in your everyday life. If you eat enough, carbohydrates will contribute to the recovery of normal muscle function after highly intensive and long-lasting physical exercise; such exercise can lead to muscle fatigue and the depletion of glycogen store in skeletal muscle.
There are three types of carbohydrates: sugar, starch and fibre. Over half of your daily calorie intake should be obtained from carbohydrates (starchy foods that come from plants, fruits and vegetables) but you should only go for wholemeal starch options that are high in fibre – things like brown pasta, wholegrain bread and brown rice. This type of starchy food will slowly release energy throughout the day which is another reason why carbohydrates are essential before exercise. When it comes to sugar, we are talking about natural sugars that are found in fruit, vegetables and milk, not sugars that are added to products such as biscuits, cereals and fizzy drinks – those are the kind of ‘carbs’ you want to avoid!
Alongside wholegrain starches, vegetables, fruits, pulses, oats and nuts are all valuable sources of fibre. Adults should aim to consume 30g of fibre a day in order to support digestive processes but if you’re struggling to get your daily dose, a supplement like Forever Fiber may be helpful at keeping your fibre levels topped up. A sachet of Forever Fiber contains 5g of fibre and it can be mixed with water or your favourite beverage to make a mild-tasting drink.
And many more…
The above list is simply scratching the surface of essential nutrients your body requires, as actually many of the bodily systems work together. A compromised immune system, poor digestion and cognitive problems can of course impact one’s ability to effectively exercise, which is why it’s always important to eat a balanced diet that provides you with a wide variety of nutrients for every function. There’s no doubt that nutrition and exercise go hand in hand, so if you really want to push through the challenges this February, it’s essential that you do your research and eat well. Do this, and you will continue to #BeResolute through this month and beyond.
Do you take any Forever supplements to help with your nutrient intake? Let us know your favourites in the comments below.
It was three-and-a-half years ago when I was at my heaviest. I weighed 11 stone 13lbs and I hated being in front of the camera during that time. When a friend contacted me about the C9 fitness progra...
It was three-and-a-half years ago when I was at my heaviest. I weighed 11 stone 13lbs and I hated being in front of the camera during that time.
When a friend contacted me about the C9 fitness programme, my immediate reaction was of disinterest. As a nurse practitioner, I’m not someone who’s in to ‘diets’, but after a bit of research, I realised that the C9 is actually so much more than your bog-standard diet plan!
I decided I would give the programme a try, and although there were elements I found extremely difficult, such as the taste of the gel and the hunger I felt on day two, the possibility of seeing results kept me grounded.
I was amazed when I started to feel like a different person. I was so motivated and desperate to succeed – partly because of the results but also because I didn’t want the money I had paid to go to waste – and thankfully it paid off as after I had completed the nine days, I was thrilled to see I had achieved significant weight loss. Because of this I decided to continue drinking Forever Aloe Vera Gel and the Forever Lite Ultra shakes, and to intermittently take Forever Therm and Forever Garcinia Plus, all while following the principles of C9. Throughout the three months that followed, I continued to lose noticeable weight and my whole approach to dieting changed. My attitude towards food and exercise had been altered for the better and I honestly felt amazing.
This was three years ago now and my weight has since plateaued at 9.5 stone. I continue to use a variety of products from Forever Living’s weight management range and this constant use, alongside expert knowledge, has completely changed my life! This year I will be turning 40 and I can honestly say that I’ve never felt as healthy as I do now, and I truly believe it’s thanks to the C9 and its amazing products.
Many people start making small changes in January in a bid to live a healthier life, but 24-year-old Virgyl Sowah knew that he had to do something fast in order to sustain the lifestyle he enjoyed. Th...
Many people start making small changes in January in a bid to live a healthier life, but 24-year-old Virgyl Sowah knew that he had to do something fast in order to sustain the lifestyle he enjoyed. That’s why Virgyl decided to take on Forever Living’s C9 Challenge, a challenge that requires participants to follow a unique meal and supplement plan, accompanied by gentle exercise, for just nine days. Read on to find out whether Virgyl was able to #BeResolute for the duration of the challenge…
Name: Virgyl Sowah
Age: 24
Bio: Filmmaker. Social media master. Friendly neighbourhood smiler
Challenge: C9
How were you feeling before the programme?
I felt bloated all the time and was very unfit when playing sports or when out filming for a full day.
What did you want to get out of the programme?
Having done the C9 before, I knew it would reset my mindset and make me think differently about the food I was eating. I knew it would be a great starting point for me.
How did you convince yourself to bite the bullet and do it?
New year, new me! I have a busy lifestyle and as a filmmaker it’s very easy to lose track of exercising and eating the right foods. Funny thing is, if I continued in this way and didn’t make time for healthy eating and exercise, I would end up not being able to do my job properly! I have a real passion for my job and never want my health to hinder that.
How did you find the first few days?
I was honestly fine as I started cutting down on the meals I was eating three days prior to starting, so when it came to days one and two, my body had already begun to adjust to that style of eating.
What was the hardest part?
Although I had cut down on my eating prior to starting, I still found day two the hardest.
What was the easiest part?
Weirdly enough, day three was the easiest day. I felt energised even though I hadn’t eaten as much the previous day.
What helped you to stay focused?
I kept on thinking about how much I wanted to tick it off my list, and how I wanted to be able to say that I had completed it properly. I told a few of my friends that I was doing it, so that I knew I was accountable to people, and I like to stick to what I say I am going to do. I also knew that completing the C9 Challenge would be the first step towards being in better health for filmmaking and football.
What did you do when you felt like quitting?
Honestly, after day five I didn’t even think about quitting because it had become a normal part of my routine.
How did you feel as the challenge progressed?
I felt great and I think that’s partly because I made it fit around my lifestyle. If I had a football match, I knew a shake on its own wasn’t going to give me what I needed to compete at the highest level, so instead I chose to split the 800-calorie meal into two 400-calorie meals so that I could have a light meal packed with carbs before the game. Once the game was finished, I would have the shake and if I was still hungry, I’d have the second 400-calorie meal – this time I’d have something rich in protein for recovery.
What was your favourite recipe?
Chicken and rice – so simple to make and packed with the right nutrition.
What was your go-to exercise?
HIIT – 20-second sprint followed by a 40-second jog. Although this is not recommended in the programme, I knew my body could cope so I was able to do it on-and-off.
How did you feel when you completed the challenge?
I felt great. I felt lighter and most importantly my mindset around food was better. I wasn’t picking up things I didn’t need, and I didn’t have cravings. I also noticed a lot of difference when playing football; I had more energy and felt lighter when I ran.
Would you repeat the programme again in the future?
After completing the C9, I felt more comfortable having a shake for breakfast or lunch, and I am more aware of how many calories I eat in a day. We all develop bad habits but it’s great to know that this programme is there whenever you go off track. Knowing that the C9 programme can re-educate you every time is why I would do it in the future.
Have you ever completed the C9? Let us know how you found the programme in the comments below.
Emily Skye, Jen Selter, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, Joe Wicks...these health and fitness professionals have become celebrities and household names in their own right as society continues to be captivat...
Emily Skye, Jen Selter, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, Joe Wicks...these health and fitness professionals have become celebrities and household names in their own right as society continues to be captivated by the ever popular ‘gym buff’ persona. With an ever increasing trend towards these types of celebrity profiles, it’s clear to see that fitness is a trend that doesn't seem to be slowing any time soon. With one in seven people now members of a gym, it’s clear that this fitness craze is becoming less and less of a fad and more a lifestyle choice.
If you’re looking to push yourself and kickstart your fitness journey with a bang, Forever Living’s C9 programme could be the product for you.
Forever C9 Booklet and Step by Step Guide
Forever Aloe Vera Gel (2 x 1 litre bottles)
Forever Garcinia Plus (54 softgels)
Forever Fibre (9 packets)
Forever Lite Ultra (1 x pouch = 15 servings)
Forever Therm (18 tablets)
Tape Measure
Shaker
Food/Calorie Guide
Exercise Guide
Daily Fitness Checklist
As the frantic festive season comes to an abrupt end, we brace ourselves for the usual onslaught of cliché New Year’s resolutions which undoubtedly feature some sort of ‘get fit’ pledge. However, desp...
As the frantic festive season comes to an abrupt end, we brace ourselves for the usual onslaught of cliché New Year’s resolutions which undoubtedly feature some sort of ‘get fit’ pledge. However, despite our good intentions only 8%* of us will actually achieve the goals we set in January.
Structure – The programme provides clear direction to help you stay focused on what you want to achieve. Start with the C9 to kick-start your new healthy lifestyle before moving on to a programme of your choice from F15 – this is designed to help you create positive changes for life.
Feel-good factor – The abundance of nutritious food and exercise within the programme will undoubtedly increase your serotonin levels, helping to boost your mood and regulate your sleep cycle.
Increased confidence – Seeing the results that you desire will have a huge impact on your self-confidence and will leave you feeling amazing!
Sociable – The programme is the perfect plan to embark on with a friend. You will be more likely to stick to it if you keep each other accountable and it will give you both a competitive edge, making it extra motivational.
Overall health – Most fitness professionals will tell you that the main benefit of being healthy is how great it makes you feel and that looking good is a welcome side-effect. Eating a healthy diet and taking regular exercise will massively impact your overall health for the better.
Education – This programme will educate you on both nutrition and exercise in order to lay the foundations of life-long good habits.
Increased productivity – Exercising regularly can help you to feel more alert and increase your ability to concentrate for longer periods of time.
Learn the importance of goal-setting – Having both a long-term and short-term vision will help you to stay on track with the programme and keep you motivated.
Good for your mental health – Regular exercise can boost your mood if you have depression & reduce your risk of stress, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.*
If getting into shape this year is high on your 2019 bucket list, then you may be reassured to know that you’re not alone. In fact, according to a 2018 New Year’s Resolution survey carried out by Stat...
If getting into shape this year is high on your 2019 bucket list, then you may be reassured to know that you’re not alone. In fact, according to a 2018 New Year’s Resolution survey carried out by Statista, a whopping 45% of respondents said that their resolution was to lose weight or get in shape. It’s likely that we’ll see similar figures this year as people begin to reflect on how much they overindulged during the holidays, but unfortunately the percentage of people who actually stick to their weight loss goals will be significantly lower.
The reason for such a dropout rate boils down to mindset. Many people want results without the work; they want something that will give them instant and noticeable change but then they become disillusioned when they realise the results aren’t lasting. Well, it’s time to refuse to be another failed resolution by deciding – really deciding – to actually pursue what it is you desire. It’s time to be resolute and push through the challenges and one way to do this is by finding a fitness programme that makes being resolute possible. It’s about finding a routine that’s built on lasting foundations, that inspires you to continue thanks to noticeable results, and that ultimately delivers the transformation you desire. This is the very essence of the Forever F.I.T. Programme.
FOUNDATION.
Without a solid foundation, everything you have worked so hard on will crumble in front of your eyes. In the fitness realm, your foundation is built from established routine, unyielding determination and an unwavering attitude that combines positivity with self-belief. Laying a foundation that withstands negativity and temptation requires dedication; it depends upon you embracing correct nutrition and exercise so that you properly understand how to achieve your end goal.
Setting up your foundation is arguably the most important stage of your weight management goal, but it isn’t as complicated as it may sound. In fact, following a simple nine-day programme could be all you need to ensure your foundations are ready to face whatever lays ahead. You see, part of Forever’s C9 programme’s role is to reset your system and kickstart good habits surrounding fitness and nutrition.
By utilising the cleansing properties of Forever Aloe Vera Gel, a special range of supplements, protein shakes and an easy-to-follow meal and exercise plan, you’re able to see real results in just nine days. But it’s not just about what you see; the real power of C9 is in how it makes you feel. Purifying aloe will help your body to adjust to a new routine, to healthier meals and to daily exercise. By exercise, we don’t mean a hardcore gym session or running around the local sports field. No, we’re talking low and medium-impact exercises such as a slow thirty-minute walk, a leisurely swim or a yoga class. Making these simple adjustments over a nine-day period will start to solidify your fitness foundations, and if you stick to the programme, you’ll be amazed at what you have achieved in such a short space of time.
INSPIRATION.
There’s nothing more inspiring than living, breathing and tangible results. If you’ve conquered the C9 Challenge, it’s likely that you’ve already inspired your friends and family to give it a try thanks to your new-found confidence, appearance and attitude, and hopefully that inspiration also extends to yourself. What’s more motivating than feeling fantastic and looking great? Use what you’ve learnt from the programme to establish lasting fitness and nutrition habits until they form a part of your everyday routine.
If you fear your interest may waver, set yourself smaller goals as stepping stones to the ultimate goal. You’ll find that your motivation soars every time you accomplish one of these smaller wins. The Forever F.I.T. Programme encourages goal setting for that very reason, as sometimes the physical results are less noticeable when you’re looking at yourself each day. Taking photo evidence to document your progress is also an excellent idea to keep motivation high, as well as taking on the challenge with a friend and reminding yourself daily of the why behind your weight management goals.
TRANSFORMATION.
No one wants to follow a fitness fad that’s all hype without real lasting results, which is why the Forever F.I.T. Programme stands out from the weight management crowd. If you’ve plucked up the courage and energy to embark on a weight management programme, you want to choose one that has proven results – results that show clear transformation over an achievable period of time.
The full Forever F.I.T. Programme is made up of nine days of C9 followed by at least fifteen days of the F15. F15 is split into three levels depending on your current fitness level (beginner, intermediate and advanced), and we say ‘at least’ fifteen days because you can of course choose to progress on to different levels or continue with a level that suits if you so desire. In fact, F15 is such an easy-to-follow programme, it’s likely to imprint an achievable routine on your life in a way that allows you to continue following its structure even after the official fifteen-day period has long ceased. It is this kind of programme that makes a lasting impact on your life and once the transformation you have achieved becomes evident, your desire to continue down the path of fitness and nutrition will flourish for many months – and hopefully years – to come.
Do you want to be resolute and commit to an achievable fitness and weight management programme in 2019? Start your fitness journey today by clicking here to find out about our 24-Day Challenge.
Already started? Share your Forever fitness story in the comments below.
At this time of year, it can be hard to find the motivation to fit some exercise in. Especially when holiday-mode sets in and all you want to do is curl up in front of the telly with a blanket. Well,...
At this time of year, it can be hard to find the motivation to fit some exercise in. Especially when holiday-mode sets in and all you want to do is curl up in front of the telly with a blanket. Well, maybe your aversion to exercise isn’t just due to the cold weather. It’s possible that you are just a bit bored of your current exercise regime.
Well, that’s why we’ve put together twelve suggestions of new sports that you can try out to get you back in the swing this festive season.
Pilates
If you are looking to improve your strength and stability, with a key focus on your core, then Pilates is the workout for you. Originally invented by Joseph Pilates to help rehabilitate bed-bound patients, Pilates is a very low-intensity, low-impact workout which is a great choice if you’re struggling to get your head in the game.
Ice skating
What better way to get fit this festive season than with a spot of ice skating. There are plenty of pop-ups this time of year that you can try, or you could head over to your local year-round ice rink for more skating activities. Ice skating improves your flexibility and balance as well as strength, and it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a cardiovascular workout.
Swimming
We know the cold weather makes you want to pile the layers on, not strip off to just a swimsuit, but once you’re in the pool, you won’t notice or care. Swimming is generally considered a full body workout, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a viable option for everyone. In fact, quite the opposite: the water allows for less strain on the joints so it’s a great exercise for older people or those who need to take it a little more carefully, and, if you are looking to up the ante, you could try open world swimming (when the weather gets a bit nicer)!
Dancing
This is probably something you’re doing naturally at all of those Christmas parties, so why not learn how to do it properly? With so many choices for dance classes, you will easily find one to suit you and you may even make some new friends in the process.
Rollerblading
Have you ever felt like walking is just too simple Simon? Well, rollerblading could be the one for you! You’ll get around quicker than walking, but you’ll gain from similar health benefits. This activity may take a little longer to master, but it will have you smiling in no time. Just make sure to keep an eye out in case the roads and pavements are icy.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a martial art that combines deep breathing with flowing movements. Depending on which form of Tai Chi you choose, this exercise can really help you to feel relaxed. There’s not been very many studies on the health benefits of Tai Chi yet, but one study found that it helped those over 65 to reduce stress, improve posture, balance and general mobility, and increase muscle strength in the legs.
Badminton
The festive season is a great time to catch up with friends, so why not invite everyone to a badminton game? The shuttlecock in a badminton game generally moves a bit slower than a tennis ball, so it can be easier for newbies to pick it up. Plus, you’ll all get lots of exercise running around the court to hit it!
Water Aerobics
Similar to swimming, water aerobics can be a low-intensity workout. The water holds a lot of your weight which means it’s a great exercise for anyone overweight as it allows you to do much more than you could out of the water. Since water aerobics is usually taken as a class, you’ll also get the support of a group environment.
Yoga
If you are looking for an activity that’s all about flexibility and stability but still low-impact, then yoga is perfect for you. In contrast to Pilates, yoga is generally considered more spiritual which means that both your mind and body will get a workout with this one.
Table Tennis
A classic package holiday activity, table tennis can be as relaxed or as intense as you like. It would most likely be classed as a medium-intensity workout. See if you can keep a rally going first, then move into a match.
DVD Workout
Let’s face it, we’ve probably all got one of these laying around somewhere. Most likely, you’ve not thought about it for years, but now could be the perfect time to try something different and dig it out. If you won’t brave the cold at this time of the year, then a living room workout is perfect for you.
Country Walk
Whilst the weather at this time of year can often be dire, it can also be absolutely beautiful. Pop your walking boots on and get out for a walk in the gorgeous countryside on a cold, crisp morning. You’ll deserve that warming hot chocolate afterwards!
Seldia, the European direct selling association, has recently published the results of its European survey with a detailed analysis of direct selling across eleven European markets, including the UK....
Seldia, the European direct selling association, has recently published the results of its European survey with a detailed analysis of direct selling across eleven European markets, including the UK. It’s a positive read with some interesting insights into skills, ways of selling, as well as the motivations and experiences of those involved in the network marketing industry.
Women continue to lead the way in network marketing
Network marketing continues to be a female dominated industry with 88% of those running a network marketing business being women. The spread is quite even across three of the age-groups, 26% being in the age range 35-44, closely followed by 24% aged 25-34 and 23% aged 45-54.
On average those surveyed have been involved in the industry for six years and combine it with full-time work, dispelling reports that around 50% leave the industry within a year. 27% work their business exclusively with no other work activity and 21% combine it with other part-time work. Above all, a real affinity and love of the products is what motivates people to start and continue in their business activity, along with the financial benefits. Around a third use it as a long-term supplement to an existing income and almost a fifth (19%) say it is a long-term career.
Spreading the word
Of those surveyed, 58% spend less than eight hours a week ‘working their business’ and while face-to-face networking is still the most popular way of connecting with potential new customers (53%), social media has become an increasingly important way of reaching out to new customers (44%).
How do people purchase in network marketing?
Product demonstrations and home parties are still the most popular way of selling products to existing customers (84%) but there is an increasing trend in hosting online customer events using platforms such as Facebook Live and Skype, allowing customers to interact and shop from the comfort of their homes. The UK is leading the way in network marketing with 41% receiving orders via social media compared with the European average of 28%.
A happy industry
As well as it being a good way to earn an additional income (81%), many business owners cite how important the personal development is to them and say the training and support from the parent company equips them with new and important skills, as well as developing their self-esteem (72%). The vast majority (90%) have strong feelings of loyalty towards their existing network marketing company.
When asked to describe the network marketing industry, the most common responses included the terms ‘freedom’, ‘independence’ and ‘flexibility’, as well as ‘fun’ and ‘rewarding’, while for some it was ‘challenging’. Business owners report a positive experience with 78% saying that they were satisfied with their overall experience and that running a network marketing business either met or exceeded their expectations (69%).
You can read the survey in full here.
In Forever’s Sonya Daily Skincare range, a wealth of botanicals have been carefully formulated to fit your skincare needs. Two new introductions are the lesser-known plant oils of carrot seed and...
In Forever’s Sonya Daily Skincare range, a wealth of botanicals have been carefully formulated to fit your skincare needs. Two new introductions are the lesser-known plant oils of carrot seed and baobab seed.
So where do these skincare ingredients come from?
Carrot seed oil is an extract from the seed of the carrot plant (Daucus carota), also known as ‘Queen Anne's Lace’. Although their names are similar, carrot seed oil is not pressed from the root vegetable that we commonly call a carrot, but rather another part of the plant.
The baobab tree (adansonia digitata) is called the ‘Tree of Life’ in remote parts of Africa for its almost mythical powers as it provides food, water and shelter, as well as an abundance of nutrition. Regarded as the largest succulent plant in the world, these iconic trees can live up to 2,000 years old and the biggest baobab tree ever recorded has a circumference of over 43 metres.
Baobab fruit is a hidden gem in the superfood world and the powder has been available in most health food stores for quite some time. The fruit has a tart flavour which works perfectly in porridge and in smoothies, and it’s one of my favourite natural vitamin C sources. Furthermore the leaves, which are very rich in nutrients, are harvested for their essential oils as they are fantastic when applied topically to the skin.
Oils that balance oils
When you have oily skin, the last thing you want is more oil, right? Actually, that’s not completely true, but it depends on the type of oil you apply. The best skincare routines should include oils. Yes, some oils will clog the pores and wreak havoc on the skin, but others help to create stability in an individual’s skin type.
Whether you have dry or oily skin it doesn’t matter, because carrot seed oil has the ability to balance both skin types! It gives skin just enough moisture without clogging pores and helps to stimulate the sebaceous glands. When applied on the skin, it opens your pores to create a balance in the production of oils.
Baobab oil, on the other hand, is known for its quick absorption and low comedogenic rate, meaning it doesn’t clog your pores. Both carrot seed oil and baobab oil are non-greasy when applied as part of your daily skincare routine. They both contain fatty acids which help maintain the integrity of your skin cell membranes as well as protecting from moisture loss in the barrier function of your skin.
Rich in vitamin C and E
Vitamin C and E are often known as ‘superheroes for the skin’ and are found in high quantities in both carrot seed and baobab oils.
Rich in powerful antioxidants, vitamins C and E are some of the best topical nutrient infusions for the skin. Baobab in particular is high in vitamin C (which assists with skin elasticity), containing approximately six times more vitamin C than an orange.
In Africa, baobab oil is often used to protect the skin against the harsh desert environment due to its high levels of antioxidants and fatty acids. Antioxidants are essential in repairing the damages done to your skin cells by oxidants and stopping them from doing any further harm.
Vitamin C also helps promote the production of healthy collagen in the skin, the main protein that starts to decrease as we age. A vitamin C boost helps to strengthen the production of collagen, which equals a healthy, youthful look and keeps the skin resilient by protecting it against the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Like vitamin C, vitamin E is an antioxidant. Its main function in skincare, as part of a carrier oil, is to protect against sun damage by helping to absorb the harmful UV light from the sun.
The vitamin E in carrot seed and baobab oils has the ability to replace lost moisture, and renew and restore your skin. It rejuvenates skin cells, speeds up skin recovery processes, and encourages new growth while bringing a refreshed beautiful glow to your skin.
Gel-carrier system take the oils where they are needed most
In one of our previous blogs, we explained the revolutionary gel-based carrier used in our Sonya Daily Skincare. This gel, paired with aloe as a carrier, helps the oils to go further into the skin than they would be able to on their own. This means that your skin gets the nourishment it needs whilst also balancing its own natural oils.
If you have oily or combination skin and you’ve tried our Sonya Daily Skincare, let us know in the comments if you think your skin feels better balanced.
Written by Jeannie McGinnis, Forever’s skincare specialist
Men should never shy away from daily skincare, as like women, their skin is susceptible to age spots, blemishes and uneven skin tone that deserves to be kept under control especially during the winter...
Men should never shy away from daily skincare, as like women, their skin is susceptible to age spots, blemishes and uneven skin tone that deserves to be kept under control especially during the winter when temperatures drop. Your skin’s health should be considered just as important as your health in other areas, so put aside any reservations you have about skincare and complete this winter skincare routine on a regular basis to avoid rough and dry winter skin.
CLEANSING
Many men start their skincare regime off badly by choosing to wash their face with a bar of soap. Although this removes unwanted dirt and oil from your face, they can be very harsh and drying on the skin. A great cleanser should not contain harsh chemicals or detergents that strip away essential moisture.
Forever Living has two different cleansers – Infinite Hydrating Cleanser and Sonya Refreshing Gel Cleanser – that are both excellent cleansing solutions for men, and the decision on the one you use should be determined by your skin type (dry, oily or combination) and whether you have ageing skin. Once you’ve chosen which skincare collection you’re going to follow, it’s time to start using the products daily so that you instil a habit. Always start with the cleanser, cleansing morning and evening, then follow through with the rest of the products.
EXFOLIATING
The next step after cleansing is to exfoliate the skin. This will remove dead skin cells to make sure your moisturiser is penetrating your skin and working as effectively as possible. Aim to do this two-to-three times a week with Forever Living’s Smoothing Exfoliator. This gentle exfoliator uses natural jojoba beads and bamboo powder to remove dead skin cells without harming the skin and added lemon essential oils which work as a rich moisturiser to hydrate the new skin beneath the surface.
MOISTURISING
Once you have removed dead skin cells, you need to add moisture back into your skin. Gentleman’s Pride is a great moisturiser to use each morning as it doubles up as an aftershave balm that’s extremely soothing on freshly shaven and sensitive skin. Feel the icy exhilaration of this unique blend of lubricants and moisturisers combined with pure, stabilised aloe vera gel. With conditioning agents like camomile and rosemary, this popular aftershave will leave behind a fresh and clean masculine fragrance that’ll last all day long.
Ideally you should aim to moisturise twice a day after cleansing but obviously an aftershave balm isn’t the best moisturiser just before bed. Instead we’d recommend you give Infinite Firming Serum a go. With powerful natural ingredients and our patented aloe, this cutting edge and rich moisturiser will make your skin feel smooth and firm, and your complexion appear visibly younger.
Whatever products you choose, consistency is key. Establishing a regular routine for the winter months is necessary for long term skin-health so try to stick to your skincare schedule daily for noticeable results that last the test of time.
What Forever Living skincare products are you using this winter? Let us know in the comments!
In an age where instant everything is in vogue, it’s debatable whether instant is actually better. In cooking, the slow-marinated, carefully prepared dish maintains much more of the nut...
In an age where instant everything is in vogue, it’s debatable whether instant is actually better. In cooking, the slow-marinated, carefully prepared dish maintains much more of the nutritional value than processed, microwaved food. However in skincare, where in the past we put on thick creams and waited ages (and I mean ages) for it to absorb into the skin, now top skincare products assert instant ‘melt-into your skin’ formulas. And this actually works better, especially for oily and combination skin.
Sonya Daily Skincare, our latest skincare products, are gel-based and deliver just that – a melting formula that goes deeper into the skin layers at a quick absorption rate.
What are melt-in formulas?
Like many beauty trends, the origins of melt-in skin formulas can be traced back to Korea and Japan. Skin science has seen that for combination and oily skin, to help control oils and give hydration, skincare products should be formulated to transform from a gel into a light liquid that goes deeper and doesn’t just sit on the skin like the creams of the past.
Experts state that these new formulas for top skincare products are gentler and more easily absorbed, which is great news for those with troubled or fluctuating skin.
Samantha Freedman, previously Associate Beauty Editor at Grazia magazine, is now a freelance beauty journalist and the founder of the retailing concept Just Add Beauty. In November 2018, she spoke at Forever Living’s ‘Illuminate with Sonya’ blogger event.
She explained, “We’re all part of a generation where we want fast results, and we want them now. So waiting for creams and lotions to sink in is just not an option. That’s why skincare brands have become much savvier and smarter with their formulas, creating gels, jellies and essences that quite literally melt into the skin.
“I believe this texture trend has come over from Korea, where their 'ten-step beauty regime’ requires fast absorbing results in order for products to successfully perform when layered, and not sit on top of the skin. It’s definitely not going anywhere soon, and I am so grateful for this. Once you use a melt-in formula you definitely won’t go back to anything else!”
What skincare ingredients help the process?
Hydrolyzed collagen is collagen that has been broken down through a scientific process called hydrolysis which reduces the size of molecules for better skin absorption. The result is small, intact amino acids which have not been damaged. These are quickly absorbed and are used as the building blocks of healthy collagen within the skin (something which decreases in production as we age, causing wrinkles).
Though gel formulas contain oils, they are specific kinds that don’t sit on the skin. Low or non-comedogenic facial oil (which means it doesn’t clog the pores) is good for oily skin as it leaves the skin feeling airy and light. These oils are fantastic for retaining moisture in a daily skincare routine.
For example, our Sonya Soothing Gel Moisturizer has a combination of citrus (orange/tangerine-based) and floral oils that are known for their effect on balancing and soothing angry, troubled or fluctuating skin.
Aloe is one of the top ingredients in Forever Living’s skincare products. One of the many topical benefits of aloe is that it assists other skincare ingredients to reach deeper levels in the skin than they could on their own. Aloe contains natural polymers called lignins. These create structures and penetrate to the deeper layers of the skin as well as acting as a carrier for the other active ingredients which creates a synergy between aloe and these ingredients.
Skincare products for combination skin
On a personal note, when the Sonya Daily Skincare came out, I sat down with my 15-year-old daughter to discuss how to use the products. We had been waiting with excitement as she has had rather ‘teenagerish’ (as she calls it) unbalanced and sometimes angry skin. She was thrilled with the lightweight Sonya Refreshing Gel Cleanser, was a bit in awe of the fast-acting Sonya Illuminating Gel that brought an instant matte finish, and loved the overnight Sonya Refining Gel Mask that left her skin soft and silky.
Yet when we got to the moisturiser her response was, “But Mum, my skin is so oily, why would I want a moisturiser? I never use moisturiser!”
I explained that actually her skin, like all skin, needs balance. The Sonya Soothing Gel Moisturizer brought both the hydration her skin needs as well as helping to balance the oil production in her skin.
After the first night, she was impressed that the melting gel didn’t stay on her skin and leave a greasy layer and I’m pleased to say that my daughter has now adopted a skincare routine with Sonya Daily Skincare. She has even started to tell her friends that she has the best skincare routine out there, because her skin has been more noticeably clearer and healthier recently, despite its ‘teenagerish’ tendencies.
Sonya Daily Skincare is leading the future trends for those who wish to balance their combination or oily skin. So try it out! Maybe do a comparison of your favourite hand lotion on one hand and the Sonya Daily Soothing Moisturizer on the other. Rub each one in and see the difference in the absorption rate. Let us know what happens in the comments!
Written by Forever’s skincare specialist Jeannie McGinnis
Face masks have been around for a long time. We’ve all seen one before, whether that’s in shops, in films or on social media. Perhaps you’d assumed that the face mask had already had its heyday? Well...
Face masks have been around for a long time. We’ve all seen one before, whether that’s in shops, in films or on social media. Perhaps you’d assumed that the face mask had already had its heyday? Well that is absolutely not the case. In fact, we are seeing incredible growth in the market for face masks and it’s still growing.
The numbers behind the face mask boom
The UK face mask industry is growing every year. The UK buyer base is thought to be 6.1 million customers, which is around 10% of the population. This number increased by 1.1 million between August 2017 and August 2018 alone. Kantar Worldpanel have also suggested that face masks are the fastest growing format in facial skincare this year.
This boost is not all due to female buyers though, with 43% more men buying masks in the last year. The male face mask market is now worth 5.7 million and this is likely to grow as more men take an interest in skincare.
It’s also interesting to note that the average spend per consumer is increasing year on year as well. This year, average spend increased by 94p to an average annual spend of £5.14. It is worth noting here, that face masks can vary heavily on price, with the lower end of the market costing around £1 and the higher end upwards of £20 per mask. The differences in price will most likely reflect the quality of the masks, however the variations could also be due to the types of masks consumers are buying.
Lots of choice for face masks
There are so many different types of face masks that it can be hard to know which type to choose. The more traditional type is a clay or gel mask. With these, you rub the mask onto your face and leave for the recommended time. To remove, you either wash off with water or, if the mask dries as you wear it, peel it off. Our Sonya Refining Gel Mask could be considered an example of a gel mask, however it is specifically designed to be worn overnight as opposed to most other gel or clay masks which are only designed to be worn for around 20 minutes.
The newest trend in face masks is the sheet mask. Originating in Korea, these face masks have really gained popularity over the last few years especially. They look exactly as they sound: you take the mask out of the packaging, unfold it and place it over your face like a sheet. Sheet masks can be made out of lots of different materials from foil, to cotton, to bio-cellulose fibres. Essentially, these masks create a barrier over your skin, so that the ingredients can get to work without burden from the outside world. Therefore, if you’re thinking of using a sheet mask, it’s very important to consider the ingredients you’re putting onto your skin.
Forever’s Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask
A bio-cellulose sheet mask is made from natural fibres that are 1,000 times thinner than human hair. Not only does this mean that the masks are bio-degradable and compostable, but, due to their superfine fibres, they can also reach areas of your skin that other masks cannot reach. Forever’s Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask also fuses pure aloe and seagrass with the bio-cellulose fibres to soothe, soften and condition skin.
This environmentally-friendly mask has also been enriched by a moisturising serum of green tea and horse chestnut that rejuvenates dull skin by combatting the signs of ageing and reducing the appearance of redness. Once you are finished with the mask, there’s no need to rinse like you would with a clay or gel mask, simply remove and massage any excess serum into your skin. And, if there’s any serum left in the packet, don’t just throw it out! You can apply the serum to any part of the body, so why not give the rest of your skin a treat?
With all of the innovation and new face mask products available, it’s no wonder that this area of skincare is growing so rapidly, and our Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask is a truly unique product in this market.
Have you tried the Aloe Bio-Cellulose Mask yet? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Nothing in life stays the same and the world of work is no exception. Latest studies show that the millennial generation is looking for a different way of working. What is a Millenial? While th...
Nothing in life stays the same and the world of work is no exception. Latest studies show that the millennial generation is looking for a different way of working. What is a Millenial? While the exact years may vary slightly depending on who you ask, it’s safe to say that the term ‘millennial’ refers to those born roughly between 1981 and 2000. We also know that Millennials are the largest generation currently active in the workforce – so, whatever you may think they have the power to stand up for what they think they deserve in the workplace. So what is important to them? Well surveys show that learning and development, flexibility, and stability are some of the key desires they have for themselves in their working lives.
Not surprisingly then that many are open to an alternative to the traditional corporate career or the 9 to 5 job. They are sometimes criticised for not being patient enough, or wanting more responsibility than they can handle. Millennials have all that it takes to become one of the most entrepreneurial generations that ever lived and yet they are struggling to move forward with their ideas due their student debt. Millennials have a strong desire to venture on the entrepreneurial path but reports suggest that 42 percent of them say that their biggest obstacle is lack of money.
So given their huge potential and power could network marketing be the answer? We think yes, so here are 6 reasons why network marketing might be for you - whether you’re a millennial or not
There is a strong sense of ownership – you are in business for yourself but not by yourself. We all benefit from feeling in control of our destiny.
Low-risk entry level – no large start up sum is required. To start a Forever business for example costs less than £200.
It’s flexible and can be worked around your existing work or family commitments
You’ll be appreciated. There is a strong culture of reward and recognition. Incentives such as car plans, bonuses and paid for holidays around the globe.
Great training and support from an established global brand with a proven model.
It’s a level playing field; successful network marketers are diverse; from all walks of life, all ages all backgrounds.
The world of skincare is constantly evolving. Sometimes it feels like every week we are offered some new miracle product, a new saviour of the skin. However, everybody’s skin is different and what wor...
The world of skincare is constantly evolving. Sometimes it feels like every week we are offered some new miracle product, a new saviour of the skin. However, everybody’s skin is different and what works for others, may not always work for you. So, it can be hard to tell whether these new miracle products will truly help with your skin woes. Well, we are here to tell you, that if you have combination or oily skin, gel-based skincare is one trend that you can really get behind.
What is gel-based skincare?
Gels are not exactly a new invention in skincare; they’ve been around for at least the last few years, becoming especially prevalent within the last year. One of the main elements that differentiates gels from other skincare products is that they are usually oil-free.
Cream moisturisers will generally contain oil as they are often designed for deeper hydration, and this can sometimes mean that they sit on the surface of the skin a bit longer while they are absorbed. In contrast, gel moisturisers are often water-based, and this helps them to absorb into the skin much quicker. Other gel skincare products can have similar results, leaving the skin feeling refreshed, rather than weighed down.
Three types of skin
You may be surprised to learn that there are only three skin types: oily, dry and combination. Perhaps you’ve heard people refer to their skin as normal before? Well, ‘normal’ skin doesn’t exist. This is simply a marketing term, and your ‘normal-skinned’ friends actually have combination skin.
Combination skin can be oily, dry, both or neither, and as such, often it can be hard to find skincare products to suit all the different areas of the skin. This is where gel skincare comes in. For oily or combination skin especially, gel-based skincare is great as the absence of oil in the formulas means no excess oil is being added to the skin.
Gel moisturisers - lightweight and easily absorbed
How many times have you put on moisturiser and then had to wait ages for it to dry before you can finish the rest of your morning routine? And, if you apply makeup afterwards, have you ever found that although your skin feels hydrated, your makeup starts to slip part way through the day? Most likely those experiences took place while you were using a cream-based moisturiser, so perhaps it’s time to give gel a go.
Gel moisturisers are easily absorbed by the skin, making them a great base for your makeup. They don’t sit on top of the skin like some creams would, they simply leave you with gorgeous, hydrated skin that feels clean and rejuvenated. Plus, there’s no waiting around for your skin to dry after applying, so you can get straight on to the next step in your beauty regime.
Revolutionary gel-based formulas
The benefits of gel-based skincare can stretch further than just lightweight and oil-free formulas. Our Sonya Daily Skincare uses a revolutionary gel-based carrier in each of its four products, and as well as fast absorption and gorgeously hydrated skin, this gel carrier also provides some benefits specific to the Sonya range.
Our Sonya Illuminating Gel contains a range of carefully selected Asian botanicals which help to brighten the skin. These botanicals would naturally separate from each other in a petri dish, but the gel allows them to bond together. Then, once applied to the skin, they disperse to wherever they are needed most. In addition, the gel in our Sonya Refreshing Gel Cleanser helps to cleanse the face without stripping the skin of its natural oils. This means that when you wash with the cleanser, your face is left feeling refreshed and clean, rather than dry and tight.
For those with combination or oily skin, the benefits of gel skincare are plentiful, and our Sonya Daily Skincare products, with their revolutionary gel-based carrier, can help balance the normal fluctuations in combination skin.
What are your thoughts on gel-based skincare? Has it worked for you in the past or would you like to give it a try? Let us know in the comments!
No doubt you’ve heard countless times from your parents and medical professionals that your immune system is important. Even if it’s never been mentioned outright, it’s been inferred. We all generall...
No doubt you’ve heard countless times from your parents and medical professionals that your immune system is important. Even if it’s never been mentioned outright, it’s been inferred. We all generally have an idea of what the immune system does – it fights infections and illnesses for us – but we may not have an in-depth understanding of exactly how it works and what it’s doing for us day-to-day.
How does the immune system actually work?
Your immune system recognises every cell that makes up your body. If it finds anything it doesn’t recognise, it attacks it. Sometimes it can get this wrong and attack harmless pollen particles (causing hay fever) or donated blood or organs. However, in general your immune system will be pretty good at this.
Your immune system can be divided up into two parts: innate response and acquired response. The innate response is the part that decides whether something is friend or foe. If it decides on foe, it tries to flush out the invader and this is generally what makes you feel feverish or snotty. The acquired response acts when the invaders have been recognised. It identifies which cells in your body can kill the invaders and then sends them in, much like a SWAT team. There are lots of claims online that things like getting more sleep, taking supplements and drinking more water can help to improve your immune system, but often, robust evidence for these quick-fixes can be hard to find. So, what does work?
A healthy lifestyle is your first line of defence
The best method for maintaining a healthy immune system is to keep yourself healthy by eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise. A varied diet will ensure you are getting all the vitamins and minerals your body needs in order to stay healthy. Certain vitamins and minerals contribute to the normal function of the immune system, including copper, folate, iron, selenium, vitamin A, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc. Some will be more helpful here than others, but that’s why a balanced diet is the best option here, as you’ll get a bit of everything.
Getting regular exercise is important for your immune system because it increases the activity of helpful immune cells in your body. Improving your circulation and getting your heart beating more sends these cells out to patrol the body, looking for potential problems. The NHS notes that adults between 19 and 64 require both aerobic and strength exercises. They recommend at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity per week, in addition to separate strength exercises. Whilst both types of activity are important for general wellbeing, which is also important for your immune system, it’s the aerobic activity that will really get those immune cells moving about.
Your microbiota is on your side
We have mentioned in another of our blogs that cultivating the good bacteria in your gut is essential to your overall health and wellbeing, but how does this relate to the immune system? Well, the microbiota in your gut can help to defend you from infection in more ways than one. For one thing, they take up space in your gut, so it’s difficult for disease-causing bugs to find anywhere to establish themselves. They also secrete toxic proteins that kill off potential infections, and, finally, they regulate the signals of our innate response (the one that flushes out invaders). Some scientists have suggested that the reason why you and your friend may react differently to the same infection is down to a difference in microbiota. One way to complement your microbiota is to take Forever Active Pro-B. It’s the perfect high-quality friendly bacteria supplement to assist with your diet and lifestyle goals.
Vaccinations can help prevent problems
We mentioned earlier that the acquired response identifies cells within the body that can attack and kill invaders, well, often this process can take a few days or longer to complete. Vaccines work by introducing your acquired response to harmless versions of the infection, so that your body produces antibodies and learns how to fight it. This way, if you ever come into contact with the disease again, your immune system knows how to fight it and acts a lot quicker.
It’s clear that there’s no quick fix for boosting your immune system. The only real answer is to eat well, exercise regularly, look after your microbiome and make sure you have the correct vaccinations. Not so surprising when you think about it, is it?
What’s the silliest quick fix you’ve heard for boosting your immune system? Let us know in the comments below.
It’s fair to say that not everyone is a fan of the humble honeybee. Bees can make a grown man run a mile but there is also a very real concern for the diminishing honeybee population. In fact, in 2017...
It’s fair to say that not everyone is a fan of the humble honeybee. Bees can make a grown man run a mile but there is also a very real concern for the diminishing honeybee population. In fact, in 2017 and 2018, several species of bee were added to the endangered list. This is particularly worrying since the existence of bees directly correlates to the survival of our world! That’s why Forever only extracts the nutrients within the hive using colony-friendly methods that allow the bees to thrive.
Bees deserve to be celebrated, their work encouraged, and their lives protected, read on to find out why.
Bees play a vital role in pollinating 30% of crops and 90% of wild plants
Bees have a very intentional job here on earth: to pollinate trees and shrubs. Pollination leads to reproduction and mature crops that produce fruit and seeds, and this means plenty of trees and flowers for food, oxygen and nutrients.
While bees are busy bringing balance to our ecosystems, they are also working to make their own unique substances (honey, propolis, royal jelly and pollen) to feed the colony. These substances are packed with nutritional value and the benefits can be enjoyed by us as well as the bees.
Bees produce honey and lots more foods
Honeybees produce three to four times MORE honey than is needed to feed the hive for the winter. Honey is one of mankind’s oldest food sources, providing natural energy and goodness to bees and humans alike. This golden elixir is made from the nectar retrieved by bees from flowers, which is why there are so many different types of honey available – the flavour, colour and consistency depends upon the type of flower the nectar has been retrieved from. The darker the shade, the richer it is believed to be in bioactive plant compounds (that’s a good thing). If you regularly find yourself reaching for refined sugar, you should definitely consider replacing it with a bottle of Forever Bee Honey.
Thanks to the bees, we can also enjoy other foods as well as the natural honey they produce. Bees have played their part either by pollinating the many vegetables and fruits we eat directly (broccoli, asparagus, cucumbers, blueberries, watermelons, almonds, apples, cranberries, and cherries), or by pollinating the food for the animals we then consume. And, if you are wearing cotton, it’s worth remembering that the bees also pollinated the cotton plant your threads came from!
Bees are specialists at what they do
Worldwide there are around 25,000 different types of bee species. This is further divided into over 4,000 genera of bees, which are then subdivided into just nine families. The Apidae family is perhaps the most well-known, with members such as the honeybee, carpenter bee, and bumblebee.
Many of these bees have different characteristics that make them suited to pollinate certain plants, for example bumblebees appear to be more successful at pollinating certain crops due to their larger sizes. Many farmers rely on a diversity of bees to pollinate their produce and there is also evidence that natural pollination by the right type of bee improves the quality of the crop – from its nutritional value to its shelf life!
Bees enhance our environment
Bees boost the colour and beauty of our landscape by keeping our flowers pollinated. They perpetuate floral growth and provide attractive habitats for other animals such as insects and birds. It is hard to imagine what the planet would look like if there were no flowers, but our gardens at home would not bloom if bees were not in existence. The bee population makes it possible for billions of gardens all over the world to stay healthy and beautiful throughout all the seasons of the year.
Bees are good for trees and trees are good for bees
Bees and trees belong together. The planting of trees that supply bees with their food, known as honey plants, are popular and can be grown in a wide range of conditions including small and large gardens and in the wild. A few excellent tree species are willow, maple, horse-chestnut, acacia and linden. These all provide high levels of pollen and nectar that bees need for their existence. Also, given the choice, wild honeybees would choose nesting places in trees rather than in an open landscape. Most often the honeybees prefer to build their nests high up instead of close to the ground, but these nests can be found anywhere in a tree.
What are you doing to protect our bees? Let us know in the comments.
Forever Living has been providing a flexible business opportunity to people around the world for 40 years and women in particular have recognised the benefits it can offer as an alternative to the tr...
Forever Living has been providing a flexible business opportunity to people around the world for 40 years and women in particular have recognised the benefits it can offer as an alternative to the traditional work environment with its gender pay gap, glass ceilings on promotion and lack of flexibility around family emergencies such as a sick child.
Mum of three, Natalie Valenti from Glasgow was working as a yoga teacher when she decided to start retailing Forever’s aloe vera products around her teaching and family life. Initially she was looking to make an additional income of £200 a month. Five years on Natalie now has the largest business in Scotland. What is perhaps most remarkable is how she has grown her business organically without the need to compromise her family time. As Natalie says, "I have always felt the need to pursue work that I am passionate about. I loved teaching yoga but it was not great for paying the bills. My husband is of the same ilk following his passion as a musician. When the opportunity arose to make an additional £200 a month I jumped straight in as that amount of money made a difference to us.
"I fell in love with the products and so it felt very natural to me to start a business. I am just a normal person, I do not possess any magical qualities, I simply decided to share my passion for the products with integrity and in taking this approach I built a very solid retail business. I think when you are doing something you enjoy people are intrigued by that. So many are working in jobs they hate that the prospect of doing something that is fun, without targets, is very appealing. I found that people wanted to work alongside me and also found that I was naturally good at building a team. There have been challenges along the way of course; training others has taken me out of my comfort zone and I was definitely sweating when I hosted my first training! Certainly my experience is that more and more people are looking for a way of working that doesn't compromise other areas of their lives, especially family time. Forever provides exactly this."
Do you have what it takes to be successful in Forever?
Bob Parker, Forever Living’s UK country manager says, ‘I genuinely believe that anyone can succeed in Forever. We offer an opportunity to be in business for yourself but not by yourself under the umbrella of a global brand. There’s a huge amount of support at every stage covering both product and business skills trainings. People start a businesses with Forever for a host of reasons – yes of course to make money, but equally important to many is the recognition that comes as you progress – we have a culture within Forever which places a lot of emphasis on celebrating success and recognising achievement; sadly something that is lacking for many in today’s workplace.
In my experience I’ve found that those who thrive share many common traits these include:
Desire – it may sound obvious but if you’re working a business around your existing commitments you have to genuinely want to do it. Why do you want to start your own business? What is your motivation? What will it give you that you don’t currently have? Time? Money? Freedom? Financial Security? It could be some or all of these. To succeed you need to be clear on your ‘why’ as this emotional connection fuels your desire.
Belief – it’s important that you think that you can succeed. A positive ‘can-do’ mindset is essential.
Being open to learning and doing things differently. Not everyone is open to moving outside their comfort zone and learning new skills. In building a business with Forever there is a huge amount of personal development that takes place, in particular, an increase in confidence. . Those who are most successful are open to learning and sharing and always see themselves as ‘a work in progress’.
Commitment – those who are successful have what I call ‘stickability’ even if they have a set-back they will handle it, learn from it and move on.
Good communicators. You have to genuinely enjoy talking to people in this business – again this is a skill that can be learned; this has extended beyond verbal conversations, increasingly I’m seeing people developing their businesses by engaging through social media, particularly Facebook.
Work ethic – as in any business it takes work, Forever is no different. There isn’t a magic bullet the difference with a Forever business is that the potential rewards are significantly greater and that the freedom and flexibility that many achieve can be accessed in a relatively short time frame compared with conventional employment.
Many of us consider our gut to be simply an automated food processing system that, at best, does little more than digest our food and at worst, is the source of discomfort and illness. But have you ev...
Many of us consider our gut to be simply an automated food processing system that, at best, does little more than digest our food and at worst, is the source of discomfort and illness. But have you ever considered that your intestine is your largest organ? Its average length is greater than the width of a tennis court and its surface area is approximately 200 times the surface area of your skin. So why is our gut health so important? There is increasing emerging evidence that the size and complexity of our gut plays a vital role in more than just nutrient absorption; it’s also connected to our immune system, mental health and general wellbeing.
Nutrient absorption – we are what we absorb, not just what we eat
Taking the food we eat and processing it so that we can absorb and utilise the nutrients is the most obvious role of our gut. Having been broken down by the acidic stomach, the majority of nutrient absorption takes place in our small intestine, but this absorption varies between 10-90% depending upon the health of our intestine.
Three ways to increase nutrient absorption:
Drink a glass of water 30 minutes before each meal. This will prime the digestive system
Chew your food for longer. This will boost the digestion process and food will taste better
Avoid caffeine and alcohol whilst eating
Exercise regularly
Vary your diet with lots of nutrient dense vegetables and berries
Avoid refined sugar and processed food.
With only a certain number of hours in the working day, it’s important to find ways to increase your focus and concentration to make life easier and more productive. Many people can find it difficult...
With only a certain number of hours in the working day, it’s important to find ways to increase your focus and concentration to make life easier and more productive. Many people can find it difficult to get their brain into gear, office workers in particular. They can be constantly distracted by colleagues chatting, phone calls and emails. Also, the same working routine can send your mind wandering.
Keeping engaged and your mind active is important for reasons that stretch beyond one’s career. Although slowing and tiredness may be a part of the ageing process, important nutrients that specifically benefit your mind are worth considering.
DHA & Omega 3
One nutrient you may not be familiar with is docosahexaenoic acid, also known as DHA. DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid that forms one of the core structural components of the brain; it is also present in nerve tissues and the eyes. Not many food sources provide DHA but oily fish, seafood and algae are the major omega-3 players if you are looking to up your intake. If fish tends to be absent from your diet, it’s important to ensure that you don’t become deficient in DHA, as although your body will naturally produce the substance, the amount is quite minimal. Forever Arctic Sea contains both the fatty acids DHA and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function, as well as vision and blood triglyceride levels. Both DHA and EPA contribute to the normal function of the heart.
B vitamins
B vitamins are also excellent for one’s mental concentration. Thiamine (vitamin B1), niacin (vitamin B3) and folate (vitamin B9) all contribute to normal psychological function, pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) contributes to normal mental performance, and niacin, folate and pantothenic acid also contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Next time you’re feeling a tad sluggish, you’ll want to reach for foods rich in B vitamins such as meat, fish and nuts. Forever Daily and Forever Kids are also high in these B vitamins. Folate and vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, often work together, and if you are deficient in B12, it’s likely that you’re also deficient in folate, as B12 is required to convert folate into its active form.
Folate and folic acid
Folate and folic acid are both forms of vitamin B9. Natural folate is found in foods like spinach, beans and dairy, while folic acid is simply a synthetic form of the vitamin that’s added to supplements and foods like flour and cereal. Folate and folic acid have the same basic molecular structure, they both function the same in the body and they both offer the same health benefits. In foods, folate needs to be enzymatically converted in the intestines to be absorbed and provide benefits. However, folate is not particularly stable and there is a large loss in vitamin value during food processing or supplement manufacturing. For this reason, Forever has chosen to use folic acid, a more stable and more absorbable form of folate. For a supplement that combines both vitamin B12 and vitamin B9, choose Forever B12 Plus or Argi+.
Protein and Carbs
Many concentration issues come from two sources: lack of food and lack of water. So, it is very important to get your diet right. Starting with carbohydrates, your body turns them into glucose, which also directly fuels your brain. Without it, you may find it hard to concentrate. They also signal your brain to produce serotonin, a hormone that regulates your mood, appetite and sleep.
Eating carbohydrates together with protein-rich foods may boost the amount of tryptophan in your brain which is then converted into serotonin. Protein not only keeps our brain sharp and our energy levels high, but it also keeps us full and reduces cravings. By being less hungry during office hours, we are able to concentrate better on our work.
Polyphenols
Polyphenols are micronutrients that we get through certain plant-based foods. Dark chocolate is full of them boosting our endorphins and ability to concentrate. Plus, it has a hint of caffeine to give us that extra jolt of energy and focus. Other sources include berries, grapes, red wine and green tea.
Have you got any tips for improving concentration? Let us know in the comments.
The human body contains trillions of microbes, the vast majority of which are good for us. It may not surprise you to hear that the most dense microbe population is in the gut, however did you know th...
The human body contains trillions of microbes, the vast majority of which are good for us. It may not surprise you to hear that the most dense microbe population is in the gut, however did you know that bacteria and microbes in the human gut can weigh over a massive 4lb?
In one of our previous blogs, we mentioned how important the digestive process is for the body and the whole of this process takes place in your gut (also known as your gastrointestinal tract). With such importance placed on the gut, especially considering the vast population of microbes living in it, it’s quite clear that this is a vital part of the body to keep healthy.
Microbes in the gut can play an important role in weight regulation, immune function and digestion. What you eat affects your microbes and can change them for better or worse. Dr Eran Elinav, a gut-bacteria researcher featured on the BBC’s Trust Me, I'm a Doctor, has suggested that improving your gut health can change your overall health. And it can be so easy. You just have to make a few changes to your diet.
What types of food are good for the gut?
In the world of gut-friendly foods, two foods are mentioned constantly; yoghurts and cheese. In the case of yoghurts, this is specifically referring to ‘live yoghurts’ and traditionally made yoghurts. These will contain live cultures that can help to add to the good bacteria in your gut. Both cottage cheese and mozzarella are good choices if you’re looking for gut-friendly cheese. There’s not enough research to know if the bacteria in cheese lives long enough in the gut to make it to the large intestine and be beneficial to us, however, there’s research to suggest that certain other properties of cheese can help preserve the bacteria throughout digestion.
What is fermentation?
Involving a process where food is mixed with a salty mixture and then kept in airtight jars or bottles, fermented foods are a great gut-friendly option. And not only will these make your gut happy, they will also keep your purse happy as well, as they are often cheap and easy to make at home. In fact, this is generally considered to be more worthwhile than buying fermented foods from the supermarket, as often supermarket variations use vinegar as part of the fermentation process. This can limit the benefits you’re likely to see from eating the foods. Some examples of fermented foods include kimchi, pickles, sauerkraut, kombucha and miso.
Five foods with gut-friendly bacteria
Yoghurt: There’s a lot of choice for yoghurt in the supermarket, so be careful, as many contain sugars and sweeteners. These could cancel out the potential health benefits of the yoghurt. Look for traditionally made or ‘live’ yoghurts.
Cheese: You want to choose cheese that has been traditionally produced, as natural bacteria is used in the making of the cheese. Mass-produced cheese is often made in a different way and may provide less of the health benefits.
Miso: Miso is a seasoning made by fermenting soy beans with salt and koji. It’s high in salt, so make sure you only use it in small quantities. A good way to use miso is in soups or as a marinade for salmon.
Kefir: Milk kefir is made by placing beads of bacteria and yeast into milk for 24 hours at room temperature. The beads are then removed with the result being a drink with a taste similar to yoghurt, with a slight fizz and a sour note.
Sauerkraut: Literally meaning ‘sour cabbage’, sauerkraut is made by massaging salt into shredded cabbage. When the juices have been drawn out, the cabbage is placed in an airtight jar to ferment. This stops the cabbage from going off, whilst also adding a vinegary taste.
Are you looking to start introducing some gut-friendly foods into your diet? If so, that’s great news, just remember to start slowly. A big change in your digestive habits all at once can cause some uncomfortable side effects, like bloating. Introduce the new foods slowly and build yourself up to a healthy amount. A good sign is if you notice a positive change in your bowel habits. This suggests that your microbes are changing for the better.
You could also try Forever Active Pro-B, the perfect high-quality friendly bacteria supplement to complement your gut flora and assist with your diet and lifestyle goals.
What’s your favourite food containing gut-friendly bacteria? Let us know in the comments.
Does the hustle and bustle of daily life sometimes cause you to feel as if your world has collapsed into chaos? Does tension, stress and anxiety plague your decisions, impact your health and leave you...
Does the hustle and bustle of daily life sometimes cause you to feel as if your world has collapsed into chaos? Does tension, stress and anxiety plague your decisions, impact your health and leave you feeling deflated? If so, it’s time to bring some balance back into your life. Read on for helpful advice on how to achieve complete equilibrium for you mind, body and soul.
We all know that digestion is where the body breaks down food into other substances which are then either absorbed into the bloodstream or distributed around the body. Often, we don’t think about how...
We all know that digestion is where the body breaks down food into other substances which are then either absorbed into the bloodstream or distributed around the body. Often, we don’t think about how important this process is for our body, but without it we wouldn’t get any benefits at all from eating food, and although it may be easy to figure out when your digestive system is not functioning properly, when it does happen, how can you work to improve it?
Your overall health is important
If you have unhealthy habits, how can you expect your gut to be healthy? The NHS recommends you do 150 minutes of physical activity per week. This works out to about 30 minutes, five days a week. They also recommend that you break up long periods of sitting with some light activity. Exercise can help your body avoid constipation, as it helps food to move through your digestive system. So, perhaps the next time your lunch break rolls around, instead of eating al-desk-o, why not take a quick stroll in the great outdoors?
The human body is made up of around 60% water. Our bodies can’t function properly without adequate water, so it’s really important to make sure you drink enough fluids throughout the day. The NHS recommends we drink around six to eight glasses of water a day and this liquid encourages the passage of waste through your digestive system. If you don’t drink enough water, the fibre in your lower intestine can’t do its job. This can eventually lead to constipation. An easy way to start incorporating more water into your daily routine is to begin drinking a glass of water with every meal.
Eat a high fibre diet
If you feel like you don’t eat enough fibre, you are not alone. Most adults only get around 18g of fibre a day, which is well-below the NHS’ recommended daily intake of 30g. Introducing more fibre into your diet can help to improve your digestion. It helps to prevent constipation by bulking up and softening stools in the large intestine and moving them along the digestive tract quicker.
Wholemeal bread, brown rice, fruits and vegetables, beans and oats are all fibre-rich foods. However, it’s worth noting that grains and cereals can cause bloating and an irritable bowel in some people. If this is the case for you, then it’s best to just get your fibre intake from fruits and vegetables.
Direct selling is one of the oldest and more traditional forms of selling globally, so why is it that more and more people are starting their own direct selling business and putting more trust in the...
Direct selling is one of the oldest and more traditional forms of selling globally, so why is it that more and more people are starting their own direct selling business and putting more trust in the industry?
Direct selling is built on trust
One of the unique qualities that makes direct selling so different from other industries is that trust plays an important role. Because you’re interacting primarily with other individuals on a daily basis either face to face, over the phone or on social media, you need to trust them and constantly be on your toes to ensure that you deliver top notch customer service, otherwise direct selling just doesn’t work.
More personal selling experience
One of the key traits of being part of a direct selling company like Forever Living is personal interaction. People nowadays prefer to physically see, touch or try before they buy, and they can do exactly this with direct selling. People who are passionate about what they are selling will then go on to share their experience with others and this type of positive sharing is contagious. When you pass along your personal experiences genuinely with others, you connect emotionally.
It’s a thriving industry
According to the DSA, there are over 400,000 direct sellers in the UK and as an industry, it generates £2 billion worth of sales annually. It is also becoming more diverse with 28% of men now working in the UK's direct selling industry. There are plenty of different types of direct selling companies offering more unique products than ever before and finding a brand that suits your needs and wants has never been easier.
Trusted companies are members of the Direct Selling Association (DSA)
The Direct Selling Association (DSA) is a respected and reputable organisation with a mission statement that summarises its importance within the industry: "To protect, serve and promote the effectiveness of member companies and the independent business people they represent. To ensure that the marketing by member companies of products and/or the direct sales opportunity is conducted with the highest level of business ethics and service to consumers." By choosing a member company, you and your customers will be protected by the DSA.
Forty years in the direct selling industry
Forever Living has now been a part of the direct selling industry and the DSA for forty years and this shows a commitment to quality and purity when it comes to the products and business opportunity. Forever is so confident in the quality of its products that it offers a complete sixty-day money back guarantee if customers are not entirely satisfied. Forever also puts a lot of trust in the Forever Business Owners and the Global Leadership Team who have carried the Forever torch proudly for forty years, helping more and more people change their lives and come up with innovative new ideas to grow Forever globally.
Are you a part of the direct selling industry? Let us know in the comments.
Starting your own network marketing business can be both exciting and daunting. How do you give yourself the best chance of success from the outset? Choose the right products Enthusiasm is infectiou...
Starting your own network marketing business can be both exciting and daunting. How do you give yourself the best chance of success from the outset?
Choose the right products
Enthusiasm is infectious, so choose a network marketing company that is retailing products that interest you, that you would use, and that you feel you will be able to develop a genuine passion for. It’s also important to choose a market sector where there is demand for those products.
In a news release this year by Seldia, the European Direct Selling Association they announced that for the first time wellness products were the top product category in Europe (32%), followed by cosmetics & personal care (25%).
Seldia’s Executive Director, Katarina Molin said, “We are seeing an increased consumer focus on health and beauty across all age groups. Direct selling has proven to be a trusted channel for consumers looking to combine a focus on a healthy lifestyle with both high quality skincare and nutritional products and we expect to see continued strong growth in these product categories over the next couple of years.”
Choose the right network marketing company
The UK Direct Selling Association’s website is a good place to start https://dsa.org.uk if you are not already decided on which network marketing company to align yourself with. You can be confident that by choosing a DSA member company you are joining a company that operates ethically. Members of the DSA abide by a stringent code that protects both the business owner and the consumer. Many people do not know that the UK is one of the most highly regulated countries in Europe. Forever Living for example has a 60-day money back guarantee on all its products giving both business owners and customers peace of mind.
Develop the network marketing skills that will help you to become successful
As in any new role we must learn new skills. Make sure that there is a strong culture of mentoring and support in your chosen network marketing company. Spend time understanding the products and how they benefit the consumer. Become an expert. Many companies have an extremely wide portfolio of products (usually hundreds) so focus on the products that you use and love. Network marketing is a ‘recommendation’ business so you need to be able to recommend products with integrity and authenticity, and that means knowing what you are talking about!
As well as product knowledge equip yourself with the network marketing skills you need to run your business, read books, watch videos, follow successful people on social media, attend trainings. Depending on whether you are focusing purely on retail or are looking to grow a team will dictate the types of training you will attend.
Set goals for yourself
Get clear on what you want to achieve from your network marketing business over different time frames. Where do you want to be in a year, three years, five years from now? As the saying goes, if you fail to plan you plan to fail so don’t underestimate the power of writing down clear, time specific goals.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
There will inevitably be times when you may be feeling de-motivated or feel that you are struggling with an aspect of the business. Whatever the difficulty, don’t suffer in silence, talk to your mentor or contact business owner support –they’re there to help you.
Stay invested for the long-haul
Network marketing is a simple business but not always easy. You will have highs and you will have lows. It takes time and commitment. It’s a journey of personal development as well as business development. And as in life, the journey is as important as arriving at the destination so enjoy the experience and all that is has to offer.
Do you have any tips for being successful in Network Marketing? Let us know in the comments!
Here at Forever Living we offer a global business-building opportunity also known as direct selling or network marketing. This business opportunity offers you the chance to earn uncapped and willable...
Here at Forever Living we offer a global business-building opportunity also known as direct selling or network marketing. This business opportunity offers you the chance to earn uncapped and willable income, bonuses and company incentives. Best of all, it can also flexibly fit around your other commitments. According to the Direct Selling Association, which Forever Living are a member of, there are 425,000 direct sellers in the UK, and the industry is endorsed by lots of influential people across the world. Read below to see what they have to say..
Bill Clinton (Former US President)
In 2011, Bill Clinton appeared on video endorsing network marketing stating “You strengthen our country and our economy, not just by striving for your own success, but by offering the opportunity to others. Your industry gives people a chance, after all, to make the most of their own lives. And to me, that’s the heart of the American Dream.” See the rest of his thoughts here.
Harry Dent (Economist, Author & Entrepreneur)
Harry Dent has observed economic trends for decades and found that during hard economic times Network marketing recruiting goes up. He also talks about how “The advantage of Network Marketing is the ease of entry, low risk, and low start-up cost. Almost everything else has very high risk.” View the full video here.
Brian Tracy (Motivational Speaker & Best-Selling Author)
Brian Tracy is not only an advocate of network marketing but he also shares a lot of coaching and value on the subject, writing numerous books and blogs on the subject. Brian famously once said: “The future of Network Marketing is unlimited. It has probably made more millionaires of more people in more countries than any other form of business starting from nothing. There’s no end in sight. It will continue to grow, because better people are getting into it. It will become one of the respected business methods in the world.” To find out Tips for Network Marketing Success view his video here.
Jack Canfield (Best Selling Author & Success Coach)
Jack Canfield has been involved in network marketing for a long time, over 40 years in fact. He states that the benefits of network marketing not only include being able to become your own boss and leader but also that that you have the opportunity to leave a legacy to inspire people. Jack also loves the community aspect of network marketing and quotes “If you can go healthier and make more money and make a difference and hang around with charismatic people, most people can’t say that, to me its one of the finest industries on the planet right now.” You can listen to what else he has to say on the power of network marketing here.
Warren Buffett (A great philanthropist)
One of the richest people in the world and among the greatest philanthropists, Warren Buffett runs Berkshire Hathaway, which owns more than 60 companies, 3 of which are Network Marketing Companies. If Warren is willing to invest in network marketing, then we know network marketing is something to be taken seriously. He called it “the best investment I’ve ever made”.
Paul Zane Pilzer (Economist)
An American economist, New York Times best-selling author, and Founder of Zaniac, Paul Zane Pilzer became known to network marketers and started working with them in the 1990s when he released his book Unlimited Wealth. At this time Network marketing was a great form of distribution that he didn’t know existed. He once said, “Of all the entrepreneurial opportunities available today, one of the most important is direct selling, also called network marketing”. Hear him talk about the future of network marketing here.
Jim Rohn (Best Selling Author and Motivational Speaker)
The late Jim Rohn inspired people to dream big and released an audio CD called “Building Your Network Marketing Business”. Jim said that “Network Marketing is really the greatest source of grass root capitalism because it teaches people how to take a small bit of capital, that is your time, and build the American Dream.”
Sir Richard Branson (Founder of the Virgin Group)
Britain's fourth richest man, Sir Richard Branson is the founder of the Virgin Group and also had his very own network marketing company formerly known as Virgin Vie. When asked what he thought of the network marketing industry, he said: “I'm a tremendous believer in network marketing. I'm a great believer in entrepreneurs, I think all the future jobs in the next 20 or 30 years will be created by network marketing entrepreneurs and other entrepreneurs around the world. Starting off from scratch or starting off very small and making a real difference in the world.” Hear him talk about network marketing here.
Tony Robbins (Motivational Speaker, Life Coach and Author)
Motivational Speaker, Life Coach and Author Tony has helped many other people realise their true potential. He comments that “What’s beautiful about Network Marketing is that you’ve got all the benefits of being an owner but you do not have to worry about supply chain, you do not have to worry about accounting, especially in the world we are today. There are really some great companies out there. Network Marketing is amazing.” Watch him talk about the power of network marketing here.
Robert Kiyosaki (founder of the Rich Dad Company)
Robert Kiyosaki is the founder of the Rich Dad Company and best known for his #1 New York Times bestseller Rich Dad Poor Dad. Robert appeared on the Oprah Winfrey show talking about network marketing and said that “The richest people in the world build networks; everyone else is trained to look for work”. View the full interview here.
Which is your favourite quote? Let us know in the comments.
Diamond Sapphire Manager Adam has now been a Forever Business Owner at Forever Living for 25 years. Adam is part of the Global Leadership Team (GLT), is a phenomenal businessman, and has become one o...
Diamond Sapphire Manager Adam has now been a Forever Business Owner at Forever Living for 25 years. Adam is part of the Global Leadership Team (GLT), is a phenomenal businessman, and has become one of the most successful Forever FBOs in the world. Adam has also achieved a position that no FBO in the entire Forever global family has ever reached before – Diamond Sapphire EAGLE Manager. Adam has achieved a lot in his 25 years with Forever, and we think that it is only fitting that we celebrate with him by sharing his amazing story…
After leaving university Adam became a London Stockbroker, but for him it was a typical cash-rich time-poor lifestyle. After 7 years he came to the realisation that what he really wanted in life was to become his own boss and run his own business. Partnering with couple of colleagues Adam set up a financial services business, but with the financial crash of the early 1990s they lost everything and once again Adam ended up working for someone else. At around the same time Adam had to decide; either keep working to help build someone else's future, selling the best years of my life for what they thought he was worth, or make a change and start working towards his own future. Adam chose the latter and signed up with another network marketing company for around two years before falling out of love with the company. Adam did however realise that he had discovered something special in network marketing and had found himself falling in love with the industry.
After leaving the other company, Adam did some research and found Forever. He liked the products, the company, but more than anything else he liked the ethics. Adam got started with Forever Living part time in August 1993, however within twenty-one months (July 1995) he was earning enough to go full-time.
Adam dedicated all his time to building his Forever business. He was hungry for knowledge and keen to build relationships with other people who were already successfully at building businesses. Adam attended events and trainings across the country, knowing that every event he attended would give him the skills needed to really succeed in the business. Today is no different, taking every opportunity he gets to not just be a teacher, but also be a student.
The path Adam has been on hasn't always been easy, but Forever has allowed him to design his own future and take back control of his life Are you ready to change your life Forever? Just like Adam did.
Diamond Managers Jayne and John started their Forever business 25 years ago in the summer of 1993. They have since achieved consistent and phenomenal success over those years and have witnessed incred...
Diamond Managers Jayne and John started their Forever business 25 years ago in the summer of 1993. They have since achieved consistent and phenomenal success over those years and have witnessed incredible change and growth in Forever, both globally and here in the UK. We want to celebrate with them by sharing their incredible story…
Jayne came from an agricultural and farm management background but prior to joining Forever she faced a number of immediate challenges, not least of which was spiralling debt as a single mum. After meeting John, also a single parent who was experiencing doubtful financial prospects, the couple realised that they couldn’t carry on doing work that didn’t give them what their now combined family needed. She and John immediately saw the potential with Forever, not just for solving those issues, but also for creating an improved life. They started working part-time around other commitments and consistently demonstrated a willingness to learn, work hard, attain success, and achieve every incentive on offer.
In the first two weeks of joining Forever they developed a retail base of over 8CC and then they went on to achieve Manager in fourteen weeks. Every single night they spent working hard either running a launch, one2one, or Business Presentation. They didn’t join to just ‘give it a go’, they joined to be successful. Jayne and John were successful at what they did in 1993 and they have consistently remained successful throughout their career.
One of their fondest memories in Forever was when they qualified for their first Global Rally event in America – Jayne had never travelled farther than Europe at the time! Whilst at the Rally in San Francisco they met the founder of Forever – Rex Maughan – as well as the Vice Presidents within the company. This was the event that made Jayne and John realise the enormity of Forever; the values, the ethics, the vision and the people. Fast forward to 1995 and they achieved another long-term ambition, a trip to Peru and Machu Pichu. These opportunities abroad certainly gave the couple the bug, and travel quickly became a major passion for both, playing a major part in their decision to expand their Forever business into a global enterprise.
After 25 years, Forever has given them the opportunity to build an incredible lifestyle and personal life that many can only dream. They want to inspire and share their reality with others, helping them to recognise that they too can achieve their potential. They have learnt that to be successful you must do more than you think you have got to do, and you must be absolutely 100% consistent every single day, even when you’re not getting results. Always be the student, and always stay humble.
We want to thank Jayne and John for their constant inspiration and motivation for generations of FBOs across the world, and we’re as excited as they are to see where Forever is going and who the next generation of Forever leaders will turn out to be. Are you willing to step into their shoes? There is no reason why the next leader couldn’t be you – what’s stopping you?
There may be over 400 species of aloe plant found in dry regions throughout the world, but there is only one species that has been recognised for being particularly beneficial to humans and animals –...
There may be over 400 species of aloe plant found in dry regions throughout the world, but there is only one species that has been recognised for being particularly beneficial to humans and animals – Aloe Barbadensis. This type of aloe is known for its natural soothing, cooling and moisturising abilities, and although it looks like a cactus, this succulent is actually part of the lily family and related to onions, garlic and asparagus.
The history of aloe vera
The aloe vera plant has been known and used for centuries for its health, beauty, medicinal and skincare properties. The name ‘aloe’ derives from the Arabic word ‘alloeh’, meaning ‘shining bitter substance’, while ‘vera’ in Latin means ‘true’. Aloe vera originated in the Arabian Peninsula, where it evolved in a dry climate to form incredibly succulent properties. Today, aloe vera is one of the most popular supplements sold in Europe and for good reason, in fact humans have been recording the benefits of this plant for centuries. There are examples of aloe vera in Egyptian tombs, the Bible and in famous ancient Greek, Roman, Chinese and Indian herbals texts. Also, many Eastern women have used aloe vera as a beauty secret for decades; the beauty and strength of Cleopatra is the stuff of legends!
Aloe vera the plant
The aloe vera plant is one of the most studied herbs in the natural products category. Once an adult aloe vera plant reaches maturity, its height will be around 30 inches.
The aloe vera plant is made of essentially four different components: rind, sap, mucilage and parenchyma gel. The rind is a waxy outer layer that acts as protection and it is fifteen cells thick. Just inside the rind is a fluid called sap, this is neither sweet nor particularly sticky and it’s actually quite bitter. Below the sap is mucilage containing acemannan – acemannan carries beneficial properties relating to immune health – and this layer is usually filleted to reveal inner gel known as the parenchyma, a clear, gel-like substance. The gel part gives the plant the ability to hold moisture for a very long period of time.
Scientists have identified more than 75 active nutrients in the leaf gel and these compounds work synergistically to provide soothing and therapeutic benefits. These compounds include amino acids, enzymes, lignin, saponins, anthraquinones, minerals, vitamins, fatty acids and salicylic acids.
Harvesting and the production of aloe vera
If aloe vera leaves are harvested by hand, the plant itself will not be destroyed as only the outer leaves will be separated from the plant. About every two months, three-to-four leaves of an aloe plant can be taken but the rest must remain to ensure that the same plant can be repeatedly harvested over a period of eight-to-ten years.
Once the aloe has been harvested, it can be used to produce aloe-based products including skincare and drinks. There are many different aloe juices and gels on the market, and taste and purity can depend upon what part of the aloe leaf is used. Aloe vera juice is often made from the whole leaf, including the outer leaf that contains a bitter yellow substance known as aloin. The best ingredient to look out for is pure inner leaf gel as this carries the most benefits and is purer in taste. By cutting away the outer leaf, you are removing most of the yellowish aloin substance making the gel pleasant, healthy, and safe for consumption.
Benefits of aloe vera
Below are some of the most well-known benefits of aloe:
It’s great for shiny glowing skin, hair and nails.
Aloe vera is very succulent meaning it’s perfect as a soothing digestive aid for gastrointestinal health.
It carries cleansing and purifying properties.
It promotes health and wellbeing.
It helps support immune function.
Aloe supports skin health.
Eight essential amino acids are found in aloe vera.
According to M.D. Lauren Fine, a board-certified dermatologist at Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology, aloe vera can help improve skin health.
Every week there seems to be a new fruit, vegetable or nut that storms on the scene, praised for its beneficial properties and high nutrient values, but one rather understated botanical that deserves...
Every week there seems to be a new fruit, vegetable or nut that storms on the scene, praised for its beneficial properties and high nutrient values, but one rather understated botanical that deserves to be added to the menu of healthy eating is aloe.
Aloe vera is a succulent plant that lives in arid desert regions. Its plump leaves are bursting with goodness in the form of inner leaf gel and acemannan. Acemannan is found in the leaves mucilage, just above the gel and it is the part of aloe that helps support the immune system. Aloe also carries purifying properties which means it’s a great digestive aid that can also benefit your skin, hair and nails.
Aloe gel really is loaded with nutrients which is why we were excited to try these five delicious recipes that embrace aloe vera and taste amazing.
Forever Aloe Berry Nectar risotto
Scaloppini with artichokes
Three citrus quinoa salad
Chicken kebabs with aloe and avocado dip
Forever Living is passionate about its products, and in particular its flagship product Forever Aloe Vera Gel. This purifying gel drink carries benefits that have literally impacted millions of people...
Forever Living is passionate about its products, and in particular its flagship product Forever Aloe Vera Gel. This purifying gel drink carries benefits that have literally impacted millions of people all over the world thanks to its nutrient value and the purity of its aloe, and now we are even more excited to share a brand-new look aloe vera gel that’s even purer, fresher in taste and captured in packaging made from recycled materials.
Forever Aloe Vera Gel contains a high quantity of pure aloe vera and it really is this succulent plant that makes Forever’s products so powerful. Although there are hundreds of aloe species, Forever’s aloe, Aloe Barbadensis, is considered to be the best. Read on to discover ten reasons why you should choose Forever’s aloe vera over any other aloe brand…
Protein is a chain of organic compounds called amino acids and is extremely popular within the sports and weight management scene, but this seeming infatuation is more than just a fad. Any fitness fan...
Protein is a chain of organic compounds called amino acids and is extremely popular within the sports and weight management scene, but this seeming infatuation is more than just a fad. Any fitness fanatic knows how essential protein is to their daily routine and that it contributes to a growth in and maintenance of muscle mass. In fact, your organs, tissues, muscles and hormones are all made from proteins, therefore the protein found in foods is used by every part of the body to develop, grow and function properly. This is especially important when your body starts to age.
Protein also contributes to the maintenance of normal bones, which is why consuming a diet containing high-protein foods perfectly complements a schedule that favours strength exercises. Other benefits of protein include faster recovery after exercising, helping you to maintain a healthy weight and it can help you to feel fuller for longer by slowing down digestion and making you feel satisfied – this means you’re less likely to go back for seconds!
Protein before and after a workout is a great idea and beneficial when it comes to muscle repair, but it’s also sensible to start your day off with a high-protein breakfast. We recommend white meat, lean beef, eggs, beans, soy and Greek yoghurt – all these foods are excellent sources of protein. Even though breakfast is known as the most important meal of the day, you should try to consume other protein-rich foods in other meals on a daily basis for good health.
Forever Living has plenty of protein packed products to support you on your fitness venture:
Shake up your diet and lifestyle with naturally-flavoured, plant-powered protein. Forever Lite Ultra shakes contain 24g of protein per serving, vital vitamins and minerals and are available in two delicious flavours (chocolate and vanilla). This versatile product can be used if you’re watching your calorie intake, or as a filling protein shake if you’re trying to gain weight. A top tip is to drink a protein shake immediately after you exercise – you’re more likely to gain muscle.
The Forever Fast Break bar contains less sugar and even more fibre! With improved flavour, this delicious chocolate covered peanut butter bar will make you think you’ve died and gone to weight management heaven. Chock-full of 11g of protein, these filling bars are a great snack when you need that little extra, especially after an active workout.
Forever Pro X2 is a tasty alternative to an unhealthy snack and each bar contains 15g of protein. These gluten-free bars are available in cinnamon or chocolate and they’re perfect for keeping in your gym bag.
Argi+ is a wholesome berry-flavoured drink that has been uniquely formulated for people with active lifestyles. Each sip provides protein and amino acid support (vitamin B6), vitamins B6 and B12 will contribute to normal red blood cell formation, and it also helps to maintain muscle function (vitamin D3) and energy (vitamins C, B6 and B12).
We all know life can be hectic and sometimes it’s hard to fit exercise into your day, especially if you’re working or looking after the kids. But finding time to do some form of exercise not only help...
We all know life can be hectic and sometimes it’s hard to fit exercise into your day, especially if you’re working or looking after the kids. But finding time to do some form of exercise not only helps you to stay fit and healthy, it also provides you with the freedom and opportunity for some ‘me’ time. Forever is keen to support you in your exercise efforts by providing you with ideas that can help you to stay on track. Read on for our top tips and follow Forever’s #PoweredByArgi campaign on social this May for additional inspiration.
Track your time better
Start by tracking your time in a planner or via an app/gadget (Apple watch). This will help you to identify any gaps you have in your usual schedule, time that could then be assigned to working out. You might even have some days off coming up or a free weekend where you can get in longer workouts than you'd have time for during the week. To avoid skipping your workout, mark the days and times in your phone or desk calendar or even set alerts.
Decide whether you’re a morning or evening person
Waking up an extra 30 minutes earlier can be a hard thing to do, unless you have trouble sleeping anyway, but doing so will leave you with plenty of time to fit exercise. Why not try and squeeze in a quick run when the sun rises? You’ll get some much-needed vitamin D and you’ll feel far more productive throughout the rest of the day.
Also, by getting your workout over and done with first thing, you can still enjoy free time after work for dinner with your family or happy hour with colleagues. You will also avoid that dreaded feeling after a long day when all you really want to do is go home and put your feet up.
On the other hand, if you have a rather stressful job or you’ve been looking after your kids all day, you might benefit from an evening escape. If you need time to destress and something to take your frustration out on, an evening training session will probably be the best choice for you.
The majority of nutrition experts would say that the main thing to remember when it comes to healthy eating is that you can eat anything in moderation as long as overall you are adopting a balanced di...
The majority of nutrition experts would say that the main thing to remember when it comes to healthy eating is that you can eat anything in moderation as long as overall you are adopting a balanced diet that’s full of variety, colour and sensibly-sized portions. The foods we consume are the sources of vitamins, minerals and energy – three necessities that keep our bodies functioning, and a varied diet that taps into carbohydrates, healthy fats and proteins is what any adult requires to keep their health on track.
If you’re keen to up your fitness level, it’s vital that you take a look at your diet and eliminate anything that could hinder your performance. Follow our guide for advice on how to ensure what you’re eating is nutritionally-rich for optimum fitness.
L-arginine is a popular amino acid and a building block for proteins – that’s why Argi+ is so popular with active people.
Its vitamin C content contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of blood vessels, bones, cartilage, gums, skin and teeth. Vitamin C also contributes to a normal energy-yielding metabolism, normal function of the immune system and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
Its vitamin K content contributes to normal blood-clotting and the maintenance of normal bones.
Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and muscle function.
Vitamin B6 contributes to normal functioning of the nervous system and normal protein and glycogen metabolism.
Vitamin B12 contributes to normal psychological function and normal red blood cell formation.
Argi+ also contains folate (folic acid) which contributes to normal amino acid synthesis, normal blood formation and it plays a role in process of cell division.
Contains wholesome dark berries including red grapes, blackberries, blackcurrants, blueberries, elderberries, raspberries and Morello cherries.
Argi+ comes in convenient stick sachets that can easily be thrown into the gym bag.
Are you still trying to think of an exciting way to introduce exercise into your routine? Why don’t you consider Nordic walking? A sport that requires walking with poles may sound bizarre, but the imp...
Are you still trying to think of an exciting way to introduce exercise into your routine? Why don’t you consider Nordic walking? A sport that requires walking with poles may sound bizarre, but the impact this exercise can have on your overall health is quite something, and certainly worth considering. We caught up with sports and rehabilitation specialist Adrienne Potter to find out why Nordic walking should be embraced by people from all walks of life…
I’ve always been active, participating in sports like running, netball, skiing, rock climbing and mountaineering, but it was 2017 when I finally – and accidently – fell across Nordic walking. I’m not quite sure why it took me so long, but even when I embarked on my new adventure as a Nordic Walking Instructor at the latter part of last year, I remained oblivious to its true potential as an activity and form of post injury / illness rehabilitation. It has only been since I completed my training that I’ve truly begun to understand just how much this sport really does have to offer.
It occurred to me that sometimes we live at such a pace, we forget how to actually LIVE life. With electronic devices constantly attached to us, it can become impossible to find time to recharge our batteries. This kind of lifestyle can cause our bodies and immune system to weaken, and then illness is inevitable. We also live in a society where many people live to a ripe old age, yet many fall foul to the perils of serious and life-long illnesses. Diseases such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, MS and Parkinson’s are unfortunately still very prevalent, but thankfully there are lifestyle changes that can be put in place earlier on in life in an attempt to minimise the risk associated with such illnesses. I’ve definitely realised that no matter how fit and healthy you think you are, you can always do more to look after yourself!
For those of you who have not heard of Nordic walking, it is walking with poles, but not in the traditional sense of trekking where the poles are much heavier and chunkier. The technique used within Nordic walking means that the whole body is engaged, making specific use of the core muscles. Working your core in this way helps to reduce tension in the upper back, neck and shoulders, improving posture and reducing lower back pain. The poles take the pressure and impact off joints, so it is fantastic for anyone who wants that cardiovascular workout without pounding the pavements or having to hit the treadmill.
As time goes by I am learning just how many different groups of people can benefit from this sport. Ladies having gone through treatment for breast cancer are at risk of suffering from lymphedema, brought on by the removal of lymph nodes, but the pendulum action and movement of the arm through Nordic walking can reduce the risk of this lifelong condition. Not only that but many women are forced in to early menopause which can contribute to joint pain, excess weight gain and body image issues. Nordic walking can help combat all of these symptoms, helping ladies regain their self-confidence. Having gone through the whole breast cancer malarkey myself back in 2013, I know what it feels like to get off the ‘hamster wheel of life’ for a while. I won’t deny that it took some time before I found my path again, but now that I have and can see the benefits of Nordic walking for women who have gone through what I did, I am determined to promote this sport as much as I can.
Nordic walking can also benefit individuals living with Parkinson’s. Often sufferers will have poor posture, balance and co-ordination, but the technique used when walking with poles demands co-ordination and encourages the reconnecting of neuron pathways within the brain. When Nordic walking you plant the poles at a 45-degree angle and this means an upright position is maintained; this allows muscle memory to kick in and posture is improved.
I’ve also seen first-hand the impact this sport can have on someone living with MS. I had a client with MS who was active up until recently when she found that walking even a quarter of a mile (400m) was a struggle. That is until we put the poles to the test! Walking with poles helped my client turn that short distance into a mile, something at the age of only 70 she didn’t think would ever be possible again!
But it is not just people with serious illnesses who can benefit from Nordic walking. People who are fit and healthy can also take up the sport as a way to keep in shape, maintain good posture, and for improved balance, co-ordination and mobility. It’s fun, it will build and tone muscles, improve your heart-rate, and overall it can help maintain good health, keeping you fitter for longer. Nordic walking is available all over the UK so why don’t you google it, find someone close to you and book yourself a taster session? You will be amazed by what you get from it.
Have you ever tried Nordic walking? Let us know your experience by commenting below.
We decided to put Infinite by Forever’s anti-ageing properties to the test, so during March, a cohort of Forever customers aged over thirty were invited to trial the Hydrating Cleanser, Firming Serum,...
We decided to put Infinite by Forever’s anti-ageing properties to the test, so during March, a cohort of Forever customers aged over thirty were invited to trial the Hydrating Cleanser, Firming Serum, Restoring Crème and Firming Complex for a period of thirty days.
The hardest part for many was the seven-day ‘wash out’ period ahead of the trial where we asked participants to use only Forever’s Avocado Face & Body Soap and no other skincare products. We also asked that they keep makeup to a minimum and preferably foundation-free. For many this was bordering on traumatic, especially as we asked them to come to Forever’s Head Office for the pre-trial photoshoot completely bare-faced! A huge thanks to everyone who went outside their comfort zone and fully embraced the trial.
Once the seven-days were complete, participants started to use the cleanser, serum and cream twice a day, also taking two of the supplement tablets daily. At the end of the thirty days, everyone was invited back to Head Office for their post-trial photos as well as a ‘thank you’ pamper including canapés and bubbles, a massage, makeup and lifestyle photoshoot.
Participants completed a survey post-trial and the results* have proved impressive with 82% saying they saw a marked improvement in their skin’s smoothness, 77% reported an increase in skin brightness and 64% said their skin was firmer. More than half said that they had seen improvements in the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone.
We also had some great feedback: Jade said, “I love the products, they feel so light and are absorbed so easily leaving my skin feeling moisturised. Following the trial my skin feels amazing and it looks so much brighter since using the products.”
Jan added, “My skin feels amazing and it’s so much smoother than before – that’s a big improvement in my book!”
Have you tried Infinite by Forever? Let us know how you got on by commenting below.
*Statistics correct at time of post
With Forever Move being Forever’s product of the month and our summer campaign #PoweredByArgi starting in May, we are focusing on being healthier and exercising more. There are so many types of exerci...
With Forever Move being Forever’s product of the month and our summer campaign #PoweredByArgi starting in May, we are focusing on being healthier and exercising more. There are so many types of exercise, but one of our favourites has to be dancing as it’s said to have a positive effect on both your physical and mental health. There’s no better person to talk to about dancing than Forever’s Ambassador and professional dancer Kristina Rihanoff. We caught up with Kristina to find out where it all started and how dancing has benefitted her health and wellbeing…
Where does your love of dancing come from?
What’s your favourite style of dance?
How do you prepare physically for your dance shows?
Would you say that dancing has improved your joints?
Do you feel Argi+ has impacted your movement when dancing?
What other benefits has dancing given you?
Along with the physical benefits, would you say dancing has plenty of wellbeing benefits too?
Forever Living has always had a heart for helping others and you may have noticed that in recent years we’ve partnered with an incredible charity called Rise Against Hunger. Rise Against Hunger (rise...
Forever Living has always had a heart for helping others and you may have noticed that in recent years we’ve partnered with an incredible charity called Rise Against Hunger.
Rise Against Hunger (riseagainsthunger.org) is an international hunger relief organisation that distributes food and life-changing aid to the world’s most vulnerable. They do this by providing food packages to those who are in immediate need – often school children, patients in hospitals or vulnerable adults in the community. Over the years Forever has supported the charity by packing food parcels for them; last year, globally, we packed 1,500,000 meals and this year we’ve set ourselves the challenge of packing and donating a whopping five million meals to this worthy cause – a figure that we believe is achievable if all Forever country offices band together!
This may still seem like a massive undertaking, but we know how much of an impact this will make. For many vulnerable people and children across the world, these food parcels are their lifeline. If a child is unable to access food, their education, health and family life will suffer. To hear an inspiring true story about how these food parcels can positively affect a child’s life, click here.
We are determined to wipe out poverty one child at a time...
These Rise Against Hunger meals are used to support education and sustainable community empowerment programmes in countries facing the most critical food insecurity. Since our first meal packing event, we have packaged millions of meals from our Home Office in Arizona, Sweden, South Africa, Germany, Italy, India and, of course, the UK. We have also expanded our reach with Rise Against Hunger to help communities in need find sustainability and independence through longer-term solutions.
Last year Forever UK held an event where staff and hundreds of volunteers packed food parcels consisting of enriched rice, soy protein and dried vegetables. Each pack also included a special sachet that contains twenty-three of the essential vitamins lacking by the children and patients – these are the nutrients that help prevent a person from becoming malnourished!
Our hope is to hold a similar event this summer in the UK, but in the meantime you can follow our global progress by visiting foreverwerise.org.
Have you ever been involved in a Rise Against Hunger packing event? Share your experience in the comments below.
With spring just around the corner, here at Forever Living we’re not only excited about the weather changing but it has also got us thinking about how we can switch up our skincare routine. Earlier th...
With spring just around the corner, here at Forever Living we’re not only excited about the weather changing but it has also got us thinking about how we can switch up our skincare routine. Earlier this week we spoke with Forever Ambassador and professional dancer Kristina Rihanoff, a huge advocate of Forever’s skincare products and the proud owner of a radiant and healthy complexion. Kristina regularly uses Infinite by Forever and the new products that have been designed to target specific skincare needs, but we wanted to find out what she enjoys most about spring and how she uses these products to prepare her skin for the season that’s fast approaching…
What do you love most about spring?
How do you adjust your skincare routine for spring?
What is your advice for maintaining good skincare habits?
How does your skin change within the seasons?
Would you say that to achieve healthy skin for spring it starts from the inside?
How do the new products that target specific skin complaints complement your skincare routine?
Do you like to tone your skin after cleansing?
Ben Cohen certainly knows what it means to be fit and healthy due to his professional rugby career throughout the 90s and 00s. Although his rugby days are now behind him, Ben continues to focus on his...
Ben Cohen certainly knows what it means to be fit and healthy due to his professional rugby career throughout the 90s and 00s. Although his rugby days are now behind him, Ben continues to focus on his health and fitness as he fully understands the importance of exercise for the mind and body. Instead of being a slave to the gym, Ben prefers to keep his workout as hassle-free as possible and performs many relatively basic exercises from the comfort of his own home.
Core strength has always been a key focus for Ben as it can help to prevent injury and enables him to feel the benefits in everyday movements. Planking is a great exercise for building up core strength, but it is important to engage your core to ensure you are exercising the correct muscles and ensure you carry out this exercise move correctly. Read on below to discover some top planking tips from Ben.
How to engage your core:
Start by adopting the correct posture: sit tall with your chest lifted and shoulders back – your spine should naturally curve inwards towards your lower back. Your deep abdominal core muscles are usually around your middle, just inside your pelvic bones and just below the top of your briefs. Gently draw these muscles in so that your stomach feels tight but do not overbrace. Your core muscles are now engaged and it’s essential that they remain engaged throughout these exercises. Remember to breathe normally throughout the process.
How to perform a perfect plank:
Get into a press-up style position on the floor – no equipment is needed.
Bend your elbows at 90 degrees and rest your weight on your forearms.
Elbows should be directly beneath your shoulders.
Your body should form a straight line from your head to your feet.
Hold the position for as long as you can.
Practice, practice and more practice. Planks are a lot harder than they look as they require great core strength. Try holding for 20 seconds at first, then 30 and so on.
Keep your back straight and don’t curve your spine.
Mix planks up with other exercises – planks aren’t the most exciting exercise in the world, so don’t be afraid to mix them up in-between other exercises rather than doing all your planks together in one set.
Perform side planks to keep things interesting – just as you feel you can’t do the standard plank anymore, try doing some side planks to provide some welcome relief whilst still strengthening your core.
Don’t be over ambitious – as a beginner to planking you shouldn’t try and hold the position for too long. Instead, set an achievable target and work up to an end goal over the course of the following weeks/ months.
The Forever F.I.T. app is an essential tool for anyone who is following the Forever F.I.T. Programme, from the C9 to F15. As well as information on each programme, it provides users with interactive f...
The Forever F.I.T. app is an essential tool for anyone who is following the Forever F.I.T. Programme, from the C9 to F15. As well as information on each programme, it provides users with interactive features, motivation, accountability, exercise routines, recipes and more.
Achieving your fitness and nutrition goals has never been easier thanks to the Forever F.I.T. app. This app offers a convenient way for you to set yourself challenges and will provide you with the motivation needed to successfully conquer your weight management goals!
Here are some of the features the Forever F.I.T. app has to offer:
Easy-to-navigate dashboard
A chance to challenge and compete with friends
Access to a workout routine
Weight and measurement tracking
Delicious recipes
Water intake monitor
Supplement schedule checklist
Rewards that can be unlocked
Most people will have heard the phrase “you are what you eat”. Far fewer people are aware that actually ‘what you eat’ is determined by what you think and therefore determine the choices you make. It...
Most people will have heard the phrase “you are what you eat”. Far fewer people are aware that actually ‘what you eat’ is determined by what you think and therefore determine the choices you make. It is our thoughts and beliefs that influence our feelings and behaviours that in turn shape so much of our life.
I still remember the first time I heard this idea explained; that we can change ourselves and our life for the better by changing the way that we think. I was sat in my very first personal development workshop which had been arranged by the network marketing company I had joined. The trainer at the front of the room explained in simple ways, the science of positive thinking and that when we choose to focus our minds onto what is right it stimulates our brain-cells to release a chemical called serotonin. This powerful chemical gives us positive feelings of happiness and wellbeing. Serotonin also helps us form more brain-cell connections, which helps us to have more creative ideas and find solutions to the problems we face in life. Setting goals helps us to hold onto our positive thoughts, with hope in our heart, and purpose in our actions.
Since that day, I have used what I learnt to transform both myself and my life. Through the Goal Mapping system I created, I have also helped thousands of other people to improve their life. Goal Mapping is such a truly universal system for success and it is such a wonderful feeling for me to see so many Forever Business Owners using this tool for their success and sharing it with others.
It is twenty-three years since I created my first ‘Goal Map’ and I am now creating more goal maps for all areas of my life, and achieving more than I ever have before. Some of my ‘Goal Maps’ are long-term, and others are short-term. Last year I created a nine-day ‘Goal Map’ to support me in my C9 programme. It worked so amazingly well. Firstly, by creating the map it helped me to think clearly about ‘why’ I wanted to do the C9 and what benefits it would bring to my life. By focusing on my map and looking at it first thing every day, it really helped me to stay mindful and keep my promise to myself to follow through with the entire programme.
At the end of my C9 journey I felt so great, and so attached to my ‘Goal Map’, that I changed the date and some of the details and continued to use it to help support me in maintaining my new level of balance and healthy lifestyle.
This is a classic example of why a growing number of fitness trainers, sports coaches and wellbeing therapists are using and recommending ‘Goal Mapping’ to help people change their inner thought process and stay committed to their new routine and lifestyle plan.
Creating a ‘Goal Map’ for your health, or any other area of your life, is easy, quick and free with my new ‘Goal Mapping’ software. You can download the free templates and simply follow the instructions – don’t forget to share it with your friends and family.
www.goalmapping.com/register
I wish you a very happy and healthy new year!
Brian Mayne
The temperature is starting to drop and the weather is changing, but did you know this shift can also directly impact the skin… Colder temperatures can result in decreased circulation, which can caus...
The temperature is starting to drop and the weather is changing, but did you know this shift can also directly impact the skin…
Colder temperatures can result in decreased circulation, which can cause dull, dry, itchy or irritated skin. In fact, during winter, your typical skin type may shift. Oily skin may become combination, combination skin may become dry and dry skin may become red with excessive dry patches. However the skin varies, the biggest challenge skin faces over winter is its ability to remain moisturised.
Here are some top tips on how you can winter-proof your skin…
Introduce exfoliation
It may sound counter-intuitive, but introducing light exfoliation into routines can actually help lotions and creams work better. The skin sheds dead skin cells continuously and, unless removed, dead skin can keep moisturisers from fully sinking into the skin. Our Forever Aloe Scrub is a gentle exfoliator that uses microspheres of jojoba which roll over your skin gently. Usually exfoliators should only be used on odd occasions, but this one’s formula is gentle enough for everyday use, and it also contains the moisturising benefits of aloe.
Upgrade that moisturiser
The majority of people should use a creamier face and body moisturiser during the winter, and even those who say they prefer lightweight lotions should probably be using something a bit richer during the winter months. For the face, try the Infinite by Forever Advanced Skincare System to leave skin feeling moisturised and smooth. This impressive skincare range consists of four products that work in synergy to tone and firm the skin, feeding it what it needs from the inside out and the outside in. The Firming Serum and Restoring Crème are both rich in moisturising properties and are perfect for replenishing parched skin on those bitterly cold days. Forever F.I.T. Ambassador, Kristina Rihanoff, is a huge fan of the Infinite range due to its naturally derived ingredients such as apple amino acid and cocoa fatty acids that increase skin hydration.
Mask recovery
Face masks can work wonders on irritated and stressed-out winter skin. As well as sticking to the Infinite skincare routine twice a day, Kristina also comforts her skin with Forever’s Marine Mask, which replenishes the skin and rebalances texture. Its moisturising properties of aloe vera, honey, cucumber extract and sea minerals will leave skin feeling refreshed and revitalised. Give it a try today… your skin will thank you! Alternatively, why not try Kristina’s homemade face mask? This Russian mask recipe has been passed down through the generations within her family and is Kristina’s secret weapon to soft, glowing skin! To try the mask for yourself, simply mix one teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil, one teaspoon of Forever Bee Honey and one egg yolk before applying directly to the skin and waiting 10-15 minutes before washing off.
Don’t hesitate
Studies have shown that the optimum time to apply body lotion is within the three minutes right after you’ve showered. During this time, any moisturiser that is used can take better advantage of the moisture that’s been left on the skin, locking it in with the lotion. Aloe Lotion and Aloe Moisturizing Lotion both have a high content of pure, stabilised aloe that helps moisturise and soothe the skin. Each formula also provides collagen and elastin to assist in keeping the skin smooth and supple. Both these products are ideal for dry, chafed, wind-blown or weathered skin. If you are looking for something with a slightly lighter texture, try the Aloe Lotion – the Aloe Moisturizing Lotion is just a little bit thicker – but both lotions are excellent at helping to replenish lost moisture and at restoring the skin’s soft, silky feel.
Never neglect lips
Dry, cracked lips are not uncommon in the winter, but many people make it worse by licking their lips in an attempt to restore moisture. Unfortunately, licking can hinder the lips further as the cold air will only suck away this added moisture and leave lips even more irritated. Aloe Lips soothes and moisturises chapped and dry lips through its unique blend of aloe, jojoba and beeswax; this unique formula not only delivers moisture but also prevents any further moisture loss from occurring.
Which Forever products would you recommend for winter skin needs? Let us know by posting in the comments section below.
Here at Head Office there is no denying our love for winter! The season of holiday cheer, plenty of excitement and being able to take pleasure in life’s simple offerings. We asked what some of the sta...
Here at Head Office there is no denying our love for winter! The season of holiday cheer, plenty of excitement and being able to take pleasure in life’s simple offerings. We asked what some of the staff at Longbridge Manor like about this magical season and here is what they had to say…
We’ve all seen the adverts; women with flawless complexions and lustrous shiny hair telling us that if we want to look as radiant as them, all we need to do is spend our well-earned money on a life al...
We’ve all seen the adverts; women with flawless complexions and lustrous shiny hair telling us that if we want to look as radiant as them, all we need to do is spend our well-earned money on a life altering products. The global market for anti-ageing products is expected to be worth $331.3 billion by 2020, with cosmetic surgery and chemical based products contributing heavily to this total. Women around the world are consuming and purchasing a variety of man-made substances at an alarming rate, all in a frantic bid to achieve supple and luminous skin. However, some of these chemicals and factory-based products may not be the answer to enhancing and capturing that youthful glow. In order to truly capture the glow of youth, our bodies need to thrive off organic products and natural based treatments which can allow our bodies to breathe and regenerate in the most healthy way possible.
He was a member of the winning team in the 2003 rugby world cup, took part in the 2013 series of Strictly Come Dancing and won Channel 4’s series ‘The Jump’ last year, so we think it’s fair to say tha...
He was a member of the winning team in the 2003 rugby world cup, took part in the 2013 series of Strictly Come Dancing and won Channel 4’s series ‘The Jump’ last year, so we think it’s fair to say that Forever’s F.I.T. Ambassador Ben Cohen knows a thing or two about fitness! We spoke to him last month at our Success Express event in Birmingham to get the low down on how he stays fit and what tips and advice he would give to others on succeeding with their fitness goals...
What does your typical workout session consist of?
How often do you exercise?
What is your ‘go to’ activity in a gym setting?
Have you always been physically active?
How do you motivate yourself when you aren’t in the mood to exercise?
How does your daily diet support your fitness schedule?
What are your short and long-term fitness goals?
What advice would you give to someone looking to get fit?
When talking to people about why they exercise, the answers are often the same; I’m trying to lose weight, I need to get beach body ready, I want to look good in my new dress. With fitness models dom...
When talking to people about why they exercise, the answers are often the same; I’m trying to lose weight, I need to get beach body ready, I want to look good in my new dress. With fitness models dominating the social media scene, celebrity workout plans splashed across the front pages of magazines, and weight loss videos circulating the internet; the world has become fixated on exercise as the latest lifestyle beauty hack. However, although it’s certainly true that exercise can help you become slimmer, and more toned, there are in fact significantly more benefits to working out.
To celebrate National Fitness Day, we’ve compiled a list of some of the greatest benefits exercise and our weight management products can bring to your life; proving that a healthy fitness routine can not only transform your body, but also your entire self.
At the end of last year, four brave Forever Business Owners embarked on a 54-day F.I.T. challenge, starting with the C9 and following through with the F15 programmes, with the aim of transforming thei...
At the end of last year, four brave Forever Business Owners embarked on a 54-day F.I.T. challenge, starting with the C9 and following through with the F15 programmes, with the aim of transforming their bodies and mindset surrounding food and exercise. Shaun Cooper was one of these challengers and we caught up with him earlier this week to see if he had continued to implement these good habits into his lifestyle some nine months on. Shaun explained that using the Vital5 products have really helped to keep him on track. Read on to find out more…
How long have you been using the Vital5 products?
I have been using the products in the Vital5 pack on a daily basis since December last year when I finished the 54-day F.I.T. Challenge in which I used one C9 and three F15 kits.
How do they fit in with your healthy lifestyle and when do you take each product throughout the day?
The products fit in perfectly with my lifestyle. I love to train hard and I also love to eat lots of healthy food! The supplements work synergistically to provide my body with essential vitamins and nutrients throughout the day so that along with a balanced diet, I’m confident that I’m getting all the nutrients I need.
First thing in the morning I take two shots of Forever Aloe Vera Gel on an empty stomach with water. I then have my breakfast of porridge oats and a Forever Lite Ultra shake. Following this, I take my Forever Daily, two Forever Arctic Sea tablets and a Forever Active Probiotic beadlet. Late morning, I have a Forever Fast Break bar as a snack followed by Argi+ and a Forever Therm supplement just before I go to the gym. Following my gym session, I have chicken and rice followed by two more Forever Arctic Sea tablets. For dinner, I will typically have fillet steak with pasta and a further two Forever Arctic Seas. Before bed I will have another shot of Forever Aloe Vera Gel and if I’ve I have had a rigorous training session that day, I will then have another sachet of Argi+ before bed to aid recovery whilst I sleep.
What is your favourite product in the pack?
My favourite product would have to be Argi+ as I love the impact it has on my training, I love that I can take it before bed and at different times of the day as it’s stimulant-free so it doesn’t have those unwanted side effects, plus I love its taste!
What benefits have you noticed by taking Vital5? Do they complement your healthy lifestyle well?
Since taking the Vital5 products I have seen much better results both in the gym and with changes in my body. I weigh out all of my food and when I’m in the gym I record every weight, set and rep so that I can monitor improvements in my strength and fitness. In order to maximise the effectiveness of this training, I also need the correct supplementation to support my body’s nutritional needs. I can rely on the supplements in the Vital5 pack to deliver what I require in order to help me get to that next level of fitness.
How would you sum up the Vital5 products?
The Vital5 pack is a great selection of products that you can use whether you are trying to lose weight, gain weight or just for general health and wellness. Its benefits when taken with correct food choices are huge and really have a significant impact on both performance and general wellbeing. It’s the first product pack I recommend before anything else!
Do you use the Vital5 products on a regular basis to support a healthy lifestyle? If so, we would love to hear from you – please post your experiences in the comments section below.
Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, home DVDs… Everyday our lives are filled with a multitude of social and digital platforms, all of which seem to be selling us one thing; the glorious life of the gym fana...
Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, home DVDs… Everyday our lives are filled with a multitude of social and digital platforms, all of which seem to be selling us one thing; the glorious life of the gym fanatic. With 61% of adults working out for more than 150 minutes a week, it’s clear to see that fitness is currently captivating the hearts of the public, so we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common fitness mistakes made by gym goers in order to help you get the most from your fitness regime.
Having the perfect work-life balance is something we all dream to achieve. Though it may not be something that can happen instantly in life, finding out ways in which you are content in both work life...
Having the perfect work-life balance is something we all dream to achieve. Though it may not be something that can happen instantly in life, finding out ways in which you are content in both work life and your social life is important. Looking after yourself is essential, and we have compiled a list of some tips to help you achieve the best work life balance.
The Great British Summer is now in full swing, and before we know it the nights will be drawing in and temperatures will have dipped considerably, so make the most of it and get outdoors whilst you st...
The Great British Summer is now in full swing, and before we know it the nights will be drawing in and temperatures will have dipped considerably, so make the most of it and get outdoors whilst you still can! Earlier this week we caught up with UK F.I.T. Ambassador Mike Tuck, to find out his top fitness tips and what his summertime workouts consist of.
Do you find it easier to maintain good fitness habits during summer?
Are there any healthy summery recipes you enjoy?
2 courgettes, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Kosher salt
Freshly ground pepper
2 lemons, thinly sliced
4-6 salmon fillets
4 tbsp. butter
4 sprigs thyme
White wine
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Many of us dream of working from home. Some of us may not, but for those that do, they may be catching onto something. There are countless benefits to working from home and we have compiled a list of...
Many of us dream of working from home. Some of us may not, but for those that do, they may be catching onto something. There are countless benefits to working from home and we have compiled a list of how working from home can contribute to the perfect lifestyle.
Network marketing, multi-level marketing and direct selling are terms used to describe how some companies including Forever Living choose to retail their products selling through independent business...
Network marketing, multi-level marketing and direct selling are terms used to describe how some companies including Forever Living choose to retail their products selling through independent business owners or distributors as an alternative to the traditional high street. The UK ranks the 10th largest market with around 575,000 direct sellers generating sales worth £2.8 billion annually. It’s a growing market place and sales increased by 7.5% here last year.
Last month the World Federation of Direct Selling Associations published its annual year-end figures for the industry setting new records*
In 2016, global direct sales increased 1.9% - from US$179.2 billion in 2015 to $182.6 billion in 2016, a new global record.
The global growth was driven by increases in all regions. As well, 81% of countries around the world showed sales increases.
The story of sustained growth over time is one that can be told in all regions:
Asia-Pacific, which accounts for 46% of global direct sales, shows a 3-year CAGR of 6.7% for the period from 2013 to 2016.
Americas, accounting for 33% of global sales, shows a 3-year CAGR of 3.3%.
Europe, with 20% of global sales, has a CAGR of 4.9%,
And Africa-Middle East, at about 1% of global sales, has a CAGR of 6.0%.
Sales were generated by the world’s 107 million independent representatives, another record. This sales force of independent representatives was up 3.1% year-over-year.
Accounting for 80% of global sales are the world’s Top 10 direct selling markets: United States, China, Korea, Germany, Japan, Brazil, Mexico, Malaysia, France, and United Kingdom.
Direct Selling shows success in both advanced and developing economies: Of the Top 10 markets, 6 are Advanced economies and 4 are Developing economies, according to the International Monetary Fund.
Network marketing is often given a bad rap, misunderstood by many – so what exactly is it? In many ways it’s the forerunner to today’s ‘sharing’ and networking on social media; it’s rec...
Network marketing is often given a bad rap, misunderstood by many – so what exactly is it? In many ways it’s the forerunner to today’s ‘sharing’ and networking on social media; it’s recommending and sharing products that you genuinely love to family, friends and colleagues in the same way that you would recommend a restaurant or a film you have enjoyed.
Rather than retailing through the traditional ‘High Street’ Forever Living is a ‘direct selling’ company providing people with an opportunity to start their own business under the umbrella and with the support of a global brand; or as many of you may have heard me say ‘the opportunity to be in business for yourself but not by yourself’.
The direct selling industry is not new – you might be surprised to learn that the first direct selling company was an educational books publisher called Southwestern formed in 1855, and that Avon was formed just over 30 years later in 1886.
Forever Living, will be 40 years old next year, operating in 159 countries with the UK/Ireland being the World’s top performer for sales two years running. Our flag-ship product is our aloe vera drinking gel which accounts for half of the company’s sales globally; it sits within a huge range of aloe inspired products spanning health, beauty, nutrition, weight management and fitness, as well as products from the bee hive.
How does network marketing work?
Forever Living business owners are paid a commission on their retail sales and if they choose to grow their business further by building a team they are also paid a commission by the company on their team members’ sales. In addition the company rewards people who achieve certain volumes of business with increased commission levels, and over time, as they progress they receive other incentives including car plans and all expenses paid training/inspirational events such as the annual global rally held in a different city around the world each year.
Why do people struggle to accept network marketing?
It really is a simple model – so why do some people struggle with accepting it? Well first of all I think it’s because people are not used to a business model where people genuinely help one another. We are immediately suspicious of anything that is different, there must be some catch; it goes against everything we have experienced working in traditional businesses. We are expected to climb over people, play politics and make personal sacrifice (work extra hours, unpaid) in order to stand out and progress.
Secondly we have the term ‘pyramid’ to contend with. A term that many do not fully understand except that it’s negative; rightly so. So let’s be clear; a pyramid scheme is one where people are compensated for recruiting people rather than selling products and……they are illegal. What many people don’t know is that the UK is one of the most highly-regulated countries in the world with legislations protecting both the consumer and the business owner. We are so confident about our products that we offer a 60-day money back guarantee – you don’t find too many offers like that on the High street. We ship hundreds of thousands of orders each year in the UK and less than 10% of our revenue comes from new business owners investing in a ‘business owners box’ – which is also covered by a money-back guarantee. That should put the pyramid argument to bed once and for all.
Forever Living is also an active member of the Direct Selling Association – there are around 130 member companies globally. What this membership means is that all those companies have signed up to a code of ethics regarding best practice and high standards – http://www.dsa.org.uk/codes-of-ethics/ . Hand on heart I can say that Forever Living is one of the most ethical companies I have had the privilege to be involved in – I wouldn’t have been here over 20 years if that wasn’t the case.
Network marketing is now a mature, established industry and the best companies have strong track record, backed up by impressive financial sales statistics that many traditional corporates would envy. Robert T. Kyosaki who wrote the best seller ‘Rich Dad, Poor Dad’ is a great advocate of this industry and co-authored the network marketing book ‘Businesses of the 21st Century’. In fact he is quoted as saying “If I had to do it all over again, rather than build an old style type of business I would have started building a network marketing business.”More about Robert Kiyosaki
Why I am so passionate about Forever Living - Bob Parker UK Country Manager
As well as the flexibility and financial rewards that are possible, perhaps we should talk more about the huge personal development that so many benefit from once they commit to this business. I have witnessed so many business owners first-hand who have become truly great leaders fulfilling their potential in ways that they hadn’t even dreamed when they first started out.
So what about those who grasp the vision and run with it? They may not fully understand how it all works but have a sense of what the ‘Business Owner’s Box’ of products symbolises – the start of something that they have control over and the potential for financial and personal reward. What I love about this company is that it is the most level playing field you will ever experience regardless of age, gender, education, nationality, there are people from every conceivable background thriving in this environment. It’s also flexible – you can start to grow something in parallel with your current commitments, existing job, and around your children. People are able to build businesses on as little as 8-10 hours a week. We all have the same 24 hours a day – it’s how we choose to spend it that affects how our lives unfold.
If you’ve read the Forever magazine then you will be familiar with the host of success stories about people from all walks of life; mums, nurses, prison and police officers, lawyers, hairdressers, dog groomers, building society clerks, beauty therapists, social workers, corporate directors, even a magician’s assistant; all building their own Forever Living businesses. The common denominator is usually that there is something in their current situation that they would like to change. They may be well rewarded financially but time poor. They may hate their job, or have little financial provision in their retirement. They may want to be able to put their children through private school or pay for university education, they may be looking for reward and recognition, they may simply want to build a business with low risk and minimal investment, creating something, and helping others along the way.
What I am keen to point out is that there is no ‘smoke and mirrors’ to this world. It is, like any other endeavour in life; a case of, you get out what you put in. As in any business it requires, commitment, time and work, belief and desire, the resolve to develop new skills. There will be challenges of course but what I do promise you is that you will also have fun along the way, experience one of the most positive ‘can do’ cultures, make life-long friends and have control over your future.
Renowned for her dazzling dancing style and svelte physique, Kristina Rihanoff is no stranger to the limelight. She’s been dancing since the age of six, has won numerous prestigious awards and had cou...
Renowned for her dazzling dancing style and svelte physique, Kristina Rihanoff is no stranger to the limelight. She’s been dancing since the age of six, has won numerous prestigious awards and had countless national television appearances. Being involved in the glitz and glamour of the dance industry from a young age has meant that Kristina has always taken care of her health and appearance to ensure she is looking and feeling her best.
As a huge advocate of skincare products and an Ambassador for Forever Living, we were eager for Kristina to try our new Infinite by Forever Advanced Skincare System as soon as it launched! After trialling this new skincare collection for a month, we caught up with the Russian-born beauty to see what she thought of Forever Living’s brand new anti-ageing range, and whether she had noticed any difference to her complexion.
Forever is so excited to announce that we have welcomed a new UK F.I.T. Ambassador to the team! He won the rugby World Cup, was awarded with an MBE for his services to the sport and is an active anti-...
Forever is so excited to announce that we have welcomed a new UK F.I.T. Ambassador to the team! He won the rugby World Cup, was awarded with an MBE for his services to the sport and is an active anti-bullying campaigner. Ben Cohen is a former England rugby star who has achieved phenomenal success in the sporting world. However, his life hasn’t always been plain sailing and he has had to overcome many obstacles in both his personal and professional life.
Kate Hodge, Forever UK’s Editor, recently caught up with Ben to talk about his talent for rugby, the importance of mindset, his love for Forever products and more! This exclusive and candid interview can be found in the latest copy of Aloe Matters (issue seventeen), available to buy here.
During this interview, Ben reveals how he got into rugby by accident at the tender age of twelve after watching his friend play and being asked by the games teacher to make up numbers! This was his first ever game of rugby, and one which he really enjoyed. From this, he went on to play junior rugby for Northampton Old Scouts RFC and as a result went on to play for Northampton Saints, win the Heineken Cup and then successfully secured a place on the England squad!
Like all successful sportsmen and women, Ben has a strong understanding of the importance of mindset and revealed that the winning mentality is all about detail. He explains that knowing your game and your own strengths and weaknesses is vital and can make you indestructible. Ben’s strong work ethic also helped to shape his mindset during the height of his career and stresses that nothing comes easily, and you should work hard at everything you do.
Ben’s wisdom, success and dedication make him the perfect fit for Forever and we are delighted to have him on board! When asked why he decided to become a Forever F.I.T. Ambassador, his reply was simple: “I’m doing it because I love the products!”
Below are some interesting facts about Ben you may not know…
Ben played rugby for England during the 2003 World Cup. The final, England verses Australia, was won by England, 20-17.
Ben has three daughters: twins Harriette and Isabelle (aged 9) and Milena (aged 1).
Ben’s uncle, George Cohen, played for the England football team in the 1966 World Cup.
Ben is clinically deaf and has 53% hearing loss in each ear.
Tragically, in November 2000, Ben’s dad, Peter Cohen, was fatally assaulted whilst protecting someone else.
As a young child, Ben lived in Spain and when they moved back to the UK his date of birth was recorded incorrectly. He ended up being in the school year above the one he should have been.
In March 2016, Ben won Channel 4’s series ‘The Jump’.
Ben took part in the 2013 series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Ben has completed the C9 five times in total.
Ben is passionate about putting a stop to bullying, particularly homophobia.
Ben played rugby for over twenty years before retiring in 2011.
Our ‘Faces of Forever’ page offers a unique insight into the lives of various Forever Business Owners (FBOs); demonstrating the diverse array of people who have discovered the business opportunity, ac...
Our ‘Faces of Forever’ page offers a unique insight into the lives of various Forever Business Owners (FBOs); demonstrating the diverse array of people who have discovered the business opportunity, achieved success and never looked back! We decided to create this exhaustive catalogue of individuals to provide glimpses into their lives, with the hope of inspiring readers that they too can overcome adversity and achieve their dreams.
Have you ever wondered what it might be like to get involved with network marketing? Perhaps, you love the idea of working from home or you’re a momtrepreneur in the making but need some sense of direction? If the answer is yes to any of these questions, make sure you scroll down to read some of our incredible Business Owners’ stories…
As we all know, ageing is an inevitable process that we cannot stop, slow down or pause – it is a fact of life whether we like it or not. In modern day society, we have become fixated on the ageing pr...
As we all know, ageing is an inevitable process that we cannot stop, slow down or pause – it is a fact of life whether we like it or not. In modern day society, we have become fixated on the ageing process from a cosmetic point of view since most people associate youth with looking and feeling better. One survey*, carried out by the Anti-Ageing Health and Beauty Show, found that wrinkles and loss of skin elasticity were among the top anti-ageing concerns amongst British women. Although the process of ageing cannot be controlled, we now know that we can help to prevent the visible signs of ageing thanks to the evolution of science. Using the best of both science and natural ingredients, Forever has created an innovative range of advanced skincare that focuses on the issue of ageing skin. Infinite by Forever is our new line of skincare which uses peptides, natural minerals, botanicals and desert plants which work synergistically with the key ingredient of aloe, to increase its efficacy and benefits.
One of the key findings of research into skincare has found that hydration is vital in helping skin to appear younger and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Picture your skin as a juicy plum: moisturised, taut and smooth. This fruit represents young, healthy skin. However, as we age, our skin loses moisture faster. Add in environmental factors like pollution and the sun and our skin loses elasticity, lustre and firmness. Dry, ageing skin appears dull and is more prone to wrinkles and fine lines – just like a plum that’s been stripped of its moisture. Whilst we can’t turn back the hands of time, we can restore skin’s moisture balance, stimulate healthy collagen levels and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles – making your skin appear more like a freshly picked plum!
This fruit analogy explains how the hydrating ingredients in Forever’s anti-ageing products help skin to appear radiant and youthful. Whilst topical products are key to caring for your skin, we also know that to deliver a truly powerful skincare regime, we need to combat ageing from the inside out. Forever’s first ever beauty supplement, Firming Complex, contains a proprietary blend of French melon concentrate, biotin, phytoceramides, Vitamin C and marine collagen. Taking collagen orally has been shown to reduce the appearance in the depth of facial wrinkles and increase skin’s bounce, flexibility and hydration. The role of biotin is also important as it contributes to the maintenance of normal skin. Added to this, Vitamin C contributes to the normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin.
In an age where fifty is the new forty, people are feeling younger than ever before and they want their appearance to reflect this. What are your main anti-ageing concerns and have you tried our new Infinite by Forever range yet? We would love to hear from you so please post your comments below.
*http://www.onlinebeautyworld.com/Anti-Ageing%20Health%20&%20Beauty%20Show%20Survey%202014.pdf
To celebrate 40 years of Forever Living, we are going home to the USA in 2018! Global Rally will be held in Dallas, Texas from 22-30 April. You’ll get the chance to see Aloe Vera of America...
To celebrate 40 years of Forever Living, we are going home to the USA in 2018! Global Rally will be held in Dallas, Texas from 22-30 April. You’ll get the chance to see Aloe Vera of America and be closer than you’ve ever been to our Aloe Vera plantation in Mission, Texas. Eagle Managers Retreat will be held in Phoenix, Arizona from 07-13 October. Soar like an eagle to the heart of where Forever started where you will get the opportunity to learn and network with the absolute best in the business.
Forever UK is excited to announce the launch of new innovative products to enhance its already impeccable range. The new products, officially launched at Forever’s 2017 Global Rally in Dubai, will soo...
Forever UK is excited to announce the launch of new innovative products to enhance its already impeccable range. The new products, officially launched at Forever’s 2017 Global Rally in Dubai, will soon be available to buy in the UK, so stay tuned for more information! In the meantime, explore Forever’s new products here.
The new products fall across three popular product categories: skincare, sports and weight management.
WHEN I WAKE UP… My alarm goes off at 5:25am – I wear a watch that vibrates on my wrist so as not to wake anybody else at such an early hour – and I immediately get out of bed and feel ready to...
WHEN I WAKE UP…
My alarm goes off at 5:25am – I wear a watch that vibrates on my wrist so as not to wake anybody else at such an early hour – and I immediately get out of bed and feel ready to take on the day! I start nearly every weekday in the same way – drinking some Argi+* to help with my energy levels during training and heading down to the garden shed for a few hours of intense cycling training. It’s a time to not only train the body but also the mind; this is the time where I listen to various personal development books and podcasts and reflect on the day ahead. By 8am I’m having breakfast with my wife Kim and our son Harrison. Having been brought up understanding the importance of family meals at the table, we make sure this is something we do every morning. For me it’s a bowl of oats followed by a glass of Aloe Vera Gel for Kim and Harrison it’s anything from oats or Weetabix through to avocado toast and blueberry pancakes. After breakfast I tend to reflect and write my journal, which will either be general thoughts and feelings, or answering reflective questions that I ask the night before and have had a chance to think about whilst cycling.
WHEN I WAKE UP… My alarm goes off at 7am and I always start the day with Forever Freedom while I prepare my breakfast shake of oats, banana, Forever Bee Honey, Forever Lite Ultra and water. I have th...
WHEN I WAKE UP…
My alarm goes off at 7am and I always start the day with Forever Freedom while I prepare my breakfast shake of oats, banana, Forever Bee Honey, Forever Lite Ultra and water. I have this shake after my first training session of the morning as it helps me to recover and refuel. I also have my Argi+ ready to take before and during my training session; I generally do one hour of cardio and swimming in the mornings to set me up for the day ahead.
WHEN I WAKE UP… I have team training sessions most mornings so I wake up between 6:00am and 6:30am before starting my day. I like to get some supplements in my system as quickly as possible so the f...
WHEN I WAKE UP…
I have team training sessions most mornings so I wake up between 6:00am and 6:30am before starting my day. I like to get some supplements in my system as quickly as possible so the first thing I reach for is Forever Arctic Sea and Forever Daily – I take these with a big shot of Forever Freedom. Then it’s time for some food! I will usually have some porridge with chopped up banana or blueberries mixed in, and sometimes I’ll add a scoop of Forever Lite Ultra. Once fuelled up I quickly get dressed and hop into the car to head to basketball practice. Practice will usually last from 8 ‘til 10am and whilst walking to practice I always have my Argi+ bottle filled with water and an Argi+* sachet to help energize me throughout my training session.
Forever’s iconic yellow and brown bottle has become synonymous with aloe vera, and rightfully so – after all, Forever Aloe Vera Gel contains 99.7% stabilised aloe! For almost forty years we have been...
Forever’s iconic yellow and brown bottle has become synonymous with aloe vera, and rightfully so – after all, Forever Aloe Vera Gel contains 99.7% stabilised aloe! For almost forty years we have been at the cutting edge of aloe production and we believe our patented stabilisation process sets us apart from the rest. In fact, we are so confident in the quality of our aloe that our Forever Business Owners can offer their customers an unconditional sixty day money back guarantee if they aren’t completely satisfied with the products. Here at Forever Living, we’ve always known that aloe vera is a pretty incredible plant, but a recent report from Expert Market Research has shown that the world’s love for aloe is also growing at a rapid rate. In fact, the global aloe vera market is predicted to reach $728 million by 2021.The same report also named Forever Living as being one of the top players in the supply of aloe, which comes as no surprise considering Forever Living produces over 60% of the world’s commercially grown aloe vera – now that’s a lot of aloe!
WHEN I WAKE UP… I am woken by my seven month old daughter Mila (short for Milena) at around 7am each morning. We go downstairs and I give her a bottle of milk before she has a play with her toys. I h...
WHEN I WAKE UP…
I am woken by my seven month old daughter Mila (short for Milena) at around 7am each morning. We go downstairs and I give her a bottle of milk before she has a play with her toys. I have a glass of water, some Forever Aloe Vera Gel and a glass of Forever Pomesteen Power before breakfast to set me up for the day ahead. My partner Ben and his daughters get up half an hour later to begin getting ready for school. Mornings in our household revolve around the children and making sure they are all sorted for the day.
Forever’s UK Head Office is really excited to have launched a new platform called ‘Faces of Forever’. This platform is accessible via Facebook and has been specifically designed to showcase the wide...
Forever’s UK Head Office is really excited to have launched a new platform called ‘Faces of Forever’. This platform is accessible via Facebook and has been specifically designed to showcase the wide variety of people who have enjoyed success as a direct result of becoming a Forever Business Owner (FBO). The platform captures stories of people from different professional backgrounds who decided to take the plunge into the world of Forever. Discover more at facesofforever.co.uk.
This helpful tool highlights the achievements of people from different levels on the Marketing Plan, the stories of how they became FBOs, and why they decided to embark on the Forever journey. Some stories also share insight into the Forever business and the impact that becoming an FBO has had on that individual’s life.
‘Faces of Forever’ will also house information on the Forever F.I.T. Ambassadors, articles and video testimonials about Forever Business Owners, and inspiring content about the company. The platform aims to pinpoint what's at the heart of Forever by highlighting the ethics behind the company, the charities we support and the foundations on which the company is built.
New content will be uploaded to ‘Faces of Forever’ on a monthly basis using recognition stories from Forever magazine and other relevant interviews.
The platform was officially launched on Saturday 18th February on stage at the recent Success Express event at the NEC Birmingham. We invite you to come and take a look…
WHEN I WAKE UP... My alarm goes off bright and early at 6:30am and I always start my day with a shot of Forever Aloe Vera Gel and various supplements. I take a cuppa upstairs to my wife Lindsey and w...
WHEN I WAKE UP...
My alarm goes off bright and early at 6:30am and I always start my day with a shot of Forever Aloe Vera Gel and various supplements. I take a cuppa upstairs to my wife Lindsey and wake my two sons for school. We then head downstairs and share a light breakfast together. Whilst the rest of the household are getting dressed, I take twenty minutes to myself to clear my thoughts, remind myself of my goals and write down my list of priorities before finishing off with a short meditation session. Lindsey and I take it in turns to do the school run and then it’s one hour of exercise followed by a Forever Lite Ultra shake.
DURING THE DAY…
Mid-morning to lunchtime is spent making new contacts and following up existing prospects for our Forever business. I will also put aside twenty minutes to schedule my key social media activity. I tend to take around forty-five minutes for lunch and then spend my afternoons meeting prospects for one-to-one sessions, Business Presentations (BPs) or planning meetings with my team. We finish work for the day at around 3:30pm so we can collect the boys from school and take them to after school sporting activities. I also take my second shake of the day around this time.
A TYPICAL EVENING…
We have a light evening meal sat down as a family. Our evenings are usually flexible but tend to involve at least an hour’s admin work each night on the computer and there is usually a BP or launch event going on, along with our rolling training webinar which we host on a Sunday night. I then do five minutes of back and core-strength exercises last thing at night, but ideally I’m in bed by 11pm for a few minutes reading.
THIS NEVER CHANGES…
My week is very structured but each day feels different. I change my workouts every four weeks and because we are meeting and working with different people all the time, I never get bored. The beginning and end to my days are like book ends and never change, but the middle of it can vary greatly. The only physical ailment I have suffered with over the years is my lower back so I always finish the day with my back stretches and core exercises.
Exercise is something that never changes in the sense that I always train six times a week regardless of whether or not I’m on holiday, and from a nutritional point of view I remain very consistent with three main meals and two shakes a day.
MY MOST MEMORABLE FOREVER MOMENT…
Getting a call from Forever’s home office asking if I’d consider becoming one of Forever’s Global F.I.T. Ambassadors!
January is nearly over and we hope that you have used the first month of the year to wipe the slate clean and pursue a healthier lifestyle. Making the decision to implement positive changes in your li...
January is nearly over and we hope that you have used the first month of the year to wipe the slate clean and pursue a healthier lifestyle. Making the decision to implement positive changes in your life is only the beginning, but once you begin to accomplish what you set out to do, be encouraged that you are on the right track. However, keeping enthusiasm levels high can be the most difficult challenge of all, so if you feel like your motivation is starting to wane, read on to gather some inspiration from our Global F.I.T. Ambassadors.
Sit on the floor with your knees bent as though you’re in a "sit-up" position. The feet should be kept together and slightly above the ground or put under a stable surface.
The torso should be kept straight with the back kept off the ground at a 45 degree angle. Arms should be held together away from the body in a straight fashion and hands kept locked together.
Stand with your feet directly under your hips and hold a dumbbell in each hand with your palms facing out. Bend your elbows, bringing the weights to your shoulders and perform a bicep curl.
Stabilise your torso and keep your arms moving upward, straightening the arms above you and performing an overhead press with your palms facing out.
Bend your elbows, coming back to the end of your bicep curl, and then straighten your arms back to the starting position to complete one rep.
Perform two-to-three sets of ten-to-twelve reps.
Did you know that Forever Living was recently named as one of the key companies responsible for the growth within the global aloe vera market? According to a press release based on a report...
Did you know that Forever Living was recently named as one of the key companies responsible for the growth within the global aloe vera market?
According to a press release based on a report from Expert Market Research, the global aloe vera market is predicted to reach $728 million by 2021. The market has been growing at a healthy pace for the past decade and much of its success is down to the benefits experienced by consumers as they use aloe-based skincare and drink aloe-based gels or beverages. The report also states that “…a number of scientific studies conducted by various institutes regarding the benefits of aloe vera has also build-up the confidence in consumers about the usage of aloe vera products…” These statistics are very encouraging to Forever Living, our customers and independent Forever Business Owners, and we look forward to seeing how Forever Living develops over the coming years. We always knew that aloe was an amazing plant, but it’s exciting to see that consumers are also recognising that it can play an essential role in their daily routines!
Shakes are an ideal form of liquid nutrition to keep you going in-between meals, and they can taste pretty amazing too! Here are a few of our favourite Forever Lite Ultra shake recipes. Chocolate R...
Shakes are an ideal form of liquid nutrition to keep you going in-between meals, and they can taste pretty amazing too! Here are a few of our favourite Forever Lite Ultra shake recipes.
236ml unsweetened coconut milk
130g fresh or frozen raspberries
3.7g cocoa powder
15g almond butter
17g cacoa nibs ( optional topping)
4-6 ice cubes
1 scoop vanilla Forever Lite Ultra
236ml unsweetened coconut milk
125g fat-free plain Greek yoghurt
77g cherries
4g ginger
7g Forever Bee Honey
4-6 ice cubes
Nutritious – shakes can provide the perfect start to the day and keep you going until lunch, provided they are loaded with nutrient-dense ingredients.
Workout fuel – Why not add some Argi+ to your shake for an added dose of nutrition? Agri+ contains vitamin C which contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue – giving you a great boost before or during a workout.
Recovery – the ideal reload after a gruelling exercise session since protein contributes to the growth and maintenance of muscle mass.
Quick and easy – ideal for people who are constantly on the go with busy lifestyles.
Versatile – Whether you are watching your calorie intake or trying to gain weight, a shake is the perfect meal or snack.
With a background as an organiser in weddings and parties, Nicola Liggins started her Forever business 5 years ago and was joined by her husband Ian two and a half years later. Initially they s...
With a background as an organiser in weddings and parties, Nicola Liggins started her Forever business 5 years ago and was joined by her husband Ian two and a half years later. Initially they started their business to help them pay off spiraling debts including credit cards and an overdraft. Having developed a successful business they are now in a position to help their daughter Alice 21 to fund an Estate Agency Franchise through Open House Estate Agents. Alice will have her own business when she finishes university next year, and Nicola and Ian will go on to help her using all the business skills they have developed in building their own Forever business.
Nicola says, “Forever has enabled us to build a secure and financial future for ourselves and now we want to ensure all of our four children have that same security ahead of them; coming out of education debt free and giving them the best possible start to adulthood, including their own business and deposit for their own home.
As a parent all you ever want to do is to feel that you have done everything you can for your children. To know that we are in a position to help set our children up so that they are financially secure and have a future of choices and freedom ahead of them makes us extremely proud and emotional. We are truly grateful to Forever for making this possible.”
Managers Debbie and David Phillips are a real inspiration to many; they have the perfect work-life balance, they’re building a strong Forever business that works for them, and they are no strangers to...
Managers Debbie and David Phillips are a real inspiration to many; they have the perfect work-life balance, they’re building a strong Forever business that works for them, and they are no strangers to pursuing what brings them joy in life. Debbie and David worked hard to get to where they are today and now these two incredible sixty-something-year-olds are living their dream and sailing the seas. Forever’s Editor Kate Hodge caught up with Debbie to find out more about their Forever business and the nautical adventure it helped to bring to life.
For several years Amway, a network marketing company that, like Forever, is also part of the Direct Selling Association, has published a report that looks into the current attitudes towards entreprene...
For several years Amway, a network marketing company that, like Forever, is also part of the Direct Selling Association, has published a report that looks into the current attitudes towards entrepreneurship. This year’s report, the 2016 Amway Global Entrepreneurship Report (AGER), presents some encouraging results for the network marketing industry.
It seems that there has been a shift over the past few years in how people view employment, and the want to become self-employed or independent from an employer is now on the rise. This trend is supported by some of the statistics shared in the AGER study. The study interviewed a sample of 50,861 men and women aged 14-99 in 45 countries all over the world, and from this group it is clear that the global view towards the idea of entrepreneurship is predominantly positive. In fact, 77% of those involved in the study view this career choice positively and 43% can imagine starting their own business. These statistics are even more impressive when the results for Great Britain alone are considered. The study showed that 83% now consider entrepreneurship as a positive career choice and of this, 44% would consider starting their own business.
The idea that entrepreneurship now sits on the ‘five-year-plan’ for many individuals is exciting for companies like Forever. It puts network marketing in a strong position and it won’t be long before more and more people realise that network marketing could be the next step in their career goal. After all, Forever is able to offer these individuals an opportunity they desire; one with flexible working hours, uncapped income and the chance to be their own boss! The benefits that stem from a Forever business are certainly attractive, and the AGER report confirms that these motivators are the factors that drive people in Britain towards entrepreneurship. Independence from an employer secured the top position with 49% of the vote, followed by self-fulfilment at 39%. The idea that the role offers better compatibility of family, leisure time and career came in third with 27%. Interestingly, the flexibility aspect that means a better work-life balance was a higher motivator in Britain compared to the majority of the rest of the world.
Bob Parker, Country Manager of Forever UK, Ireland and Iceland says, “Home entrepreneurship is now an acceptable way of making money. We are seeing younger people who look at entrepreneurship as a solution. They see it as an opportunity, particularly in this digital age where you can work on your laptop from anywhere in the world. This younger generation want flexibility. They don’t necessarily want to work nine-to-five in an office anymore. Network marketing has the potential to offer this flexibility.”
Critics could easily argue that these motivators are only focused on the end goal, rather than the hard work that is required to get to that point; however, the report also examined attitudes towards some of the activity required by entrepreneurs and it found that 64% of British respondents feel comfortable searching for and acquiring customers and 47% would not let their family or friends dissuade them from starting their own business.
Recruitment, networking and building a retail customer base are obviously critical elements of the direct selling industry and therefore this is another positive statistic that works in Forever’s favour. It is also extremely encouraging to learn that negatively directed towards the budding business-builder is not necessarily going to impact their pursuit. Dr. David B. Audretsch, professor and director of the Institute for Development Strategies at the Indiana University School of Public and Environmental Affairs, agrees and says, "This year's report reaffirms the growing positivity we've seen toward entrepreneurship… it is clear that positive attitudes toward entrepreneurship show no signs of receding.” (Audretsch, 2016)
We are entering into a new generation of working life and a fresh optimism is being placed upon the idea of entrepreneurship and self-employment that was unheard of just ten years ago. It’s time to recognise that the economy, societal expectations and educational paths no longer dictate one’s future career, and instead it is the journey of self-fulfilment, flexibility and achieving one’s potential that drives those to start a business and make it on their own.
Click here to find out more about AGER and to view the full results.
An American laboratory has recently found that some store-branded aloe gel being sold across many national retailers, including Wal-Mart, contains no evidence of aloe vera at all despite them listing...
An American laboratory has recently found that some store-branded aloe gel being sold across many national retailers, including Wal-Mart, contains no evidence of aloe vera at all despite them listing aloe vera as either the number one or number two ingredient after water.
Aloe vera has been used for its healing properties throughout history and is still just as popular amongst modern-day consumers. However, it seems that some retailers are exploiting the public’s desire for aloe by supplying them with fake goods. The shocking discovery was made by Bloomberg News who hired a lab to carry out aloe testing on a selection of products. The four gels that underwent this testing were Wal-Mart’s ‘Equate Aloe After Sun Gel with pure aloe vera’, Target’s ‘Up & Up Aloe Vera Gel with pure aloe vera’, CVS’ ‘Aftersun Aloe Vera Moisturizing Gel’ and Walgreen’s ‘Alcohol Free Aloe Vera Body Gel’. Samples of these products were tested for aloe’s three chemical markers – acemannan, malic acid and glucose – but all were found to be absent from each product except for Walgreen’s gel, which contained just one of these markers (malic acid). In the other three samples, a cheaper food additive called maltodextrin was found which is sometimes used to imitate aloe. Astonishingly, none of the samples contained lactic acid which is also a key component used to indicate the presence of degraded aloe vera. The lack of acemannan in all four of the tested products is of particular concern, since it is this component that gives aloe vera its beneficial properties according to Jane Wilson, Executive Director of the International Aloe Science Council. Despite these findings, all four of the retailers in question either declined to comment or denied any wrongdoing. Several law firms have since filed lawsuits against the retailers after further testing failed to find aloe in the company’s private-label products. They’re seeking class-action status and restitution for all the customers who were misled.
The International Aloe Science Council (IASC) represents the aloe industry and was formed in the 1980s to offer an independent certification programme to ensure both the quantity and quality of aloe vera in consumer products. IASC has a strong code of ethics and carries out a strict inspection and testing programme on aloe-based products to ensure the industry is running ethically; therefore consumers should always look for aloe products certified by IASC when making a purchase. We are proud to announce that Forever’s Aloe Vera Gel exceeded IASC’s high standards and the majority of Forever’s products have also been awarded with its Seal of Approval.
Forever is extremely proud of its products and the company is passionate about aloe vera; we even patented aloe’s stabilisation process so that it can remain pure and be used as the foundation ingredient across our product range. We are the world’s largest grower, manufacturer and distributor of aloe vera products and we control everything from the fields to the factory. We’re involved in research and development, as well as the packing, shipping and distribution phases. It takes three years for a plant to mature, and once ready, the leaf is hand-picked, transported, washed and filleted. The raw materials can vary based on the method of harvest, the climate, season and storage conditions. Therefore, to minimise these variations and to ensure the quality of our aloe, all the leaves are processed and packed for shipping to our manufacturing facilities within hours of harvest. Minutes after filleting, the raw gel is stabilised through a patented process which preserves the nutritional compounds and seals in its natural potency. Forever holds a number of accreditations that relate to the quality of its products and we follow a strict testing regime on every product before it reaches the consumer. In total our manufacturing plant, Aloe Vera of America, performs over 1.5 million quality tests per year. We offer retail customers a sixty-day money-back guarantee if they are not satisfied with the product, and less than 0.5% of our product comes back to us under this money-back guarantee. Such high quality creates demand and last year we sold 1,465,309 bottles of Forever Aloe Vera Gel – now that’s incredible!
Forever’s Global F.I.T. Ambassador and adventurer Marcus Leach recently wrote an article that has been published in Cyclist Magazine Australia. The article highlights how Marcus returned to take on th...
Forever’s Global F.I.T. Ambassador and adventurer Marcus Leach recently wrote an article that has been published in Cyclist Magazine Australia. The article highlights how Marcus returned to take on the Tour du Mont Blanc for a second time, and how his mindset played a strong part in him being able to complete the challenge. You can read the article here.
We have also shared a short video that captures Marcus’s adventure. This video follows him on his Tour du Mont Blanc journey and you can watch the video on the Forever UK Facebook page here. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share it with your friends!
*Image credit - James Mitchell
Earlier this year, Global F.I.T. Ambassador Marcus Leach completed the Tour du Mont Blanc, a cycling event covering 330km over 8000m of ascent across three countries. Marcus attempted this challenge a...
Earlier this year, Global F.I.T. Ambassador Marcus Leach completed the Tour du Mont Blanc, a cycling event covering 330km over 8000m of ascent across three countries. Marcus attempted this challenge a year ago but the mountains got the better of him. He came back stronger this year, ready to give it another shot.
Watch this exclusive video and find out more about his journey.
Fitness and sport have always played a role in Ruth’s life, and although in the past she has battled with her weight, Forever has helped to rebuild her confidence… I have six-year-old twin girls, H...
Fitness and sport have always played a role in Ruth’s life, and although in the past she has battled with her weight, Forever has helped to rebuild her confidence…
Rachel grew up in rural Northumberland and since she’s from a farming family she always thought she would end up working with animals; that was until she discovered Forever… I left school after my...
Rachel grew up in rural Northumberland and since she’s from a farming family she always thought she would end up working with animals; that was until she discovered Forever…
"Since making this change I have achieved Eagle Manager, Forever2Drive, qualified for Chairman’s Bonus and Global Rally, and my business has quadrupled."
Before joining Forever in June 2013 Natalie was living her dream as a self-employed yoga teacher. Although she and her husband, David, a freelance musician, had always managed to make ends meet, Natal...
Before joining Forever in June 2013 Natalie was living her dream as a self-employed yoga teacher. Although she and her husband, David, a freelance musician, had always managed to make ends meet, Natalie was open to exploring an opportunity that would further support their home and three children…
Jennifer and Matthew actually joined to benefit from the product discount, but it seems that their business was destined to grow… Matt and I live in Scotland with our three kids, Joshua, Ruby and J...
Jennifer and Matthew actually joined to benefit from the product discount, but it seems that their business was destined to grow…
UK F.I.T. Ambassador Mike Tuck is a professional basketball player for the Sheffield Sharks. As club captain, Mike understands the importance of leadership and how mentality can impact his team, and a...
UK F.I.T. Ambassador Mike Tuck is a professional basketball player for the Sheffield Sharks. As club captain, Mike understands the importance of leadership and how mentality can impact his team, and although his field may be different, there is much to learn from the way he leads.
The Sheffield Sharks are an award-winning club and Mike’s team recently won the season. Such success is the product of strong leadership and we asked Mike to share his advice and thoughts on leading a team to success…
In 2010 I was the happiest girl alive. I had my wonderful partner and two perfect children: Jak, then five, and Ellie, two. However, in August 2010 our lives were turned upside down when my daughter...
In 2010 I was the happiest girl alive. I had my wonderful partner and two perfect children: Jak, then five, and Ellie, two. However, in August 2010 our lives were turned upside down when my daughter contracted meningitis.
There is no better than adversity. Every defeat, every heartbreak, every loss contains its own seed, its own lesson on how to improve your performance the next time. For the past twelve months the wor...
There is no better than adversity. Every defeat, every heartbreak, every loss contains its own seed, its own lesson on how to improve your performance the next time. For the past twelve months the words of Malcolm X have enabled me to take strength from falling short in my first attempt at completing the Tour du Mont Blanc, they have helped me improve day by day and driven me to great lengths in order to ensure that I didn’t suffer the pain of defeat for a second time.
1. Write down what you’re thankful for…Doing so will put things in perspective and gratitude will start to become an instinctive reaction. 2. Surround yourself with positive people…Your mood will be...
My background is in childcare and education and I specialised in developing behaviour management strategies for primary aged children that had been removed from mainstream schools. The job itself was...
My background is in childcare and education and I specialised in developing behaviour management strategies for primary aged children that had been removed from mainstream schools. The job itself was very rewarding and I absolutely loved it, but I also worked several evenings in a hotel to help take financial strain off my husband; I relied heavily on him as I rarely had any disposable income at the end of the month.
Initially I looked at Forever in 2011 but the timing wasn't right. However, working all hours was starting to take its toll and I knew I needed to look for something else. In September 2011 I noticed that a friend of mine had started Forever. She spoke about the flexibility it gave her and how she was able to work from home around her son. I watched her for a few months and signed up in June 2012.
I was looking to earn an extra £400 a month (so that I could leave my second job) and six weeks later I had achieved my goal – this was such an amazing feeling! My eyes had been opened so I started to set bigger goals; this changed everything for us. In May 2013 I gave birth to our beautiful daughter Lyra, and two weeks later I qualified as Manager. My priorities changed again as I wanted to become a stay-at-home mum. I was able to commit to this in July 2014 and I have since had another little girl, Sienna; this has made me even more determined – I want to make them both proud!
In September 2014 I experienced my first Forever global trip and I was blown away by the generosity of the company. This was a turning point for me because I knew I never wanted to miss this opportunity again. I will also be eternally grateful for what Forever has delivered financially, and for what it has given us as a family. We are now able to make choices we couldn't consider before (such as upgrading our family car, going on family holidays and creating wonderful memories together).
It hasn’t always been easy – there have been a lot of tears and tantrums along the way – but the reward of seeing others achieve their goals and dreams is worth its weight in gold.
Jason, a separated father of two young boys – Fynley, four, and Charlie, two – didn’t want to fall into the category of being an evening and weekend dad, so, when he started Forever in July 2015, he s...
Jason, a separated father of two young boys – Fynley, four, and Charlie, two – didn’t want to fall into the category of being an evening and weekend dad, so, when he started Forever in July 2015, he saw it as an opportunity for change…
My employment started in the army. I served for eight years in multiple countries and environments which meant working with a wide range of people. After leaving in 2008 I set up business within a franchise of coffee shops, but this involved working long hours and travelling to Nottingham and Derby on a daily basis. I did this for several years but after I split with my wife I realised I couldn’t continue the business (we were also business partners).
I needed a change but enjoyed the freedom of self-employment so I decided to look at other business ventures. However, many seemed to come with high set-up costs and ultimately were high risk! At this time I was approached by my now sponsor, Nadia Graney. She offered me the opportunity to earn extra and since I’d known Nadia for many years I could see she was doing well. I watched the online BP and the business blew my mind – I registered right away.
As soon as I signed up I met with other Forever Business Owners. I just listened and copied what I was told. I didn’t actually sell a product until three weeks later as my girlfriend, Sarah, and I were doing the C9 first. We uploaded daily posts detailing our progress and that’s when the business found momentum. A few weeks later I went on holiday, and to be honest I thought everything would stall – I was wrong. We sat on our sunbeds messaging people every day and I even managed to sign up several team members. Consequently I was promoted to Supervisor after seven weeks. We arrived back from our holiday, arranged a planning meeting, and attended our first Success Express.
I achieved Manager on Halloween and although a lot of people see Forever as a business for females, I believe the structure, foundations and training in place means anyone can be successful. Our business grows stronger each day, and not only has it earned us extra money, it’s also enabled me to spend more time with my children. I can now also plan holidays throughout the year, decorate the house, work from home, work with the people I choose, and wake up looking forward to the day ahead!
Lashmi had the opportunity to sign up for Forever four years earlier than she did, but the timing just wasn’t right. It wasn’t until August 2015, after making a life-changing decision, that Forever ca...
Diamond Sapphire Manager Adam May has been a Forever Business Owner since the early nineties. He is part of the Global Leadership Team (GLT), he’s a phenomenal businessman, and he’s one of the most su...
Diamond Sapphire Manager Adam May has been a Forever Business Owner since the early nineties. He is part of the Global Leadership Team (GLT), he’s a phenomenal businessman, and he’s one of the most successful FBOs in the world. Recently he achieved a position that no FBO in the entire Forever global family has ever reached before – Adam achieved Diamond Sapphire EAGLE Manager.
Adam May, a London Stockbroker turned Forever Business Owner, is now one of the most prolific Forever Business Owners in the world. Adam is achieving great success as a result of the Forever business...
Adam May, a London Stockbroker turned Forever Business Owner, is now one of the most prolific Forever Business Owners in the world. Adam is achieving great success as a result of the Forever business opportunity. We are proud of Adam’s achievements, and will soon share his incredible story of success. Watch this space for more…
For more success stories, click here.
We caught up with UK F.I.T. Ambassador Kristina Rihanoff to discuss preparing for motherhood and how she plans to embrace the challenges ahead. Watch our latest video to find out what she shared....
We caught up with UK F.I.T. Ambassador Kristina Rihanoff to discuss preparing for motherhood and how she plans to embrace the challenges ahead. Watch our latest video to find out what she shared.
Find out more about Kristina here.
Kerrie Davies wanted to find a way to stay at home and look after her daughter. What she found brought her so much more… Twelve months ago, whilst on maternity leave with my third daughter, I was a...
Kerrie Davies wanted to find a way to stay at home and look after her daughter. What she found brought her so much more…
Marcus Leach, one of Forever’s global ambassadors, has just returned from Russia after successfully reaching the summit of Mount Elbrus. We caught up with Marcus to ask him how he prepares for such en...
Marcus Leach, one of Forever’s global ambassadors, has just returned from Russia after successfully reaching the summit of Mount Elbrus. We caught up with Marcus to ask him how he prepares for such enormous challenges and what advice he would give to others.
How do you prepare yourself physically for such a big challenge?
I get up at 5am every morning and cycle for two hours in my garden shed! It might sound strange, but it has been converted to accommodate a state-of–the-art bike which is linked up to high-tech videos featuring extreme mountain biking in some of the most incredible mountain ranges all over the world. The gradient of my bike changes with the gradient of the cyclists in the videos so it really brings the experience to life. Whilst doing my morning training, I also listen to personal development audio books which feature all sorts of mind-set techniques such as goal-setting and motivational speeches which really help to push and inspire me.
What products did you use before, during and after your expedition?
I am a huge advocate of ARGI+ and drank it during all of my pre-training and during the climb itself. ARGI+ helps me to perform at my optimum level and reduces feelings of fatigue so I can be physically active for longer periods of time. I also drank Forever Freedom every morning in preparation for the climb, and took Arctic Sea, Forever Daily and Forever Active Probiotics.
During the ascent to the summit, I continued to drink ARGI+, and ate Forever Fast Break bars. There were times when I had to walk through the night from 11pm until 8am in the morning which was exhausting! The conditions on the trip were fairly unsanitary with no fresh running water, so I was continually applying the Forever Hand Sanitizer and due to the harsh elements, I applied the Forever Sun Lips liberally each day all over my face.
Once the expedition was complete, I used the Forever Aloe Scrub to remove all the dry skin on my face that had occurred as a result of the harsh Russian elements, along with the Aloe Moisturising Lotion and Aloe Lips.
What advice would you give others who are about to embark on an important challenge?
First and foremost, believe in your own ability and understand that there will be ups and downs along the way with any big challenge, but learn to embrace them rather than avoid them.
Stay focused on what you are trying to achieve and learn the power of visualisation – picture yourself achieving what you want to achieve before you actually do, to help your subconscious to realise it will become a reality.
Break down any challenge into smaller sections. A mountain climb is a good analogy for this point – for example, to begin with you should only focus on getting from base camp to the first checkpoint as this will help to build your confidence as you achieve each small step in order to achieve your main goal of reaching the summit.
Marcus will soon be releasing his latest blog entry about his journey to the top of Elbrus, which will detail the highlights of the climb along with some of the more gruelling parts of the expedition and how he managed to overcome adversity in order to complete his challenge. Watch this space and congratulations Marcus!
Marcus Leach shares his tips for sticking to your goals in 2016. At this time of year people all over the world are joining gyms, buying better quality food and committing to a healthier way of life....
Marcus Leach shares his tips for sticking to your goals in 2016.
At this time of year people all over the world are joining gyms, buying better quality food and committing to a healthier way of life. For some this will just be a phase, for others the start of the new year really does signal the start of a new way of life. So how can you ensure that you are one of those for who new year's resolutions are a meaningful commitment, and not just a passing phase?
For me it starts with making realistic resolutions, setting goals that will stretch you but remain achievable. Humans fear change, so to suddenly make large scale changes to your lifestyle is not the best idea if you want to maintain a new way of life. Instead, in my opinion, the focus should be on small changes applied on a consistent basis. You will be surprised how effective this approach can be over time.
And therein lies the key, time. As with anything in life there are no instant results when it comes to getting fit and creating a healthier version of you. It takes time, but, speaking from experience, it is definitely worth the investment of time now to be able to enjoy a better way of life in the future. So be prepared to stay the course, there will be some ups and downs along the way but enjoy the journey and remember that the end result will be worth it.
A great way of ensuring you stick to your resolutions is by being accountable. That breaks down in to two parts, internal and external. Internal accountability is being true to yourself, if you said you're going to go to the gym four times a week, do it. However, a far more powerful means of accountability is the external, which means being accountable to other people.
Tell people your goals, share your resolutions with others and let them know what you are aiming to achieve. When I started my body transformation I told as many people as I could. Why? Because when people know you are doing something they ask you about it, and there is nothing worse than having to tell them you gave in, you quit after a few weeks.
If your goal is to get fit I would advise you do so by taking part in activities that you enjoy. If you hate running there is no point setting out to run three times a week. Instead of looking forward to your exercise you will dread it and are more likely to find an excuse not to do it. There are endless ways of being fit and active, so pick the ones that you enjoy, and better still do them with a friend.
For me nutrition was a big part of my body transformation and, contrary to popular belief, eating healthily isn't boring and you don't have to go on a diet. Instead it's about creating a healthy sustainable way of living that you can maintain not just for six or ten weeks, but for a lifetime. Be creative with your food and enjoy every meal. What we eat is far more important than the exercise we do when looking to create a healthy lifestyle.
Ultimately though the ability to stick to creating a healthy lifestyle, combining regular exercise with balanced nutrition, comes down to the individual. If it is important enough then you will stick to your goal, you will make the little changes and sacrifices necessary to stay the distance and live a healthier life. Here's to a healthy and active future for all of us.
Marcus Leach, Global F.I.T. Team Athlete.
Introducing a wide variety of fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds into your diet is an essential and delicious way to receive the vitamins, minerals and nutrients required to keep your body and mind fun...
Introducing a wide variety of fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds into your diet is an essential and delicious way to receive the vitamins, minerals and nutrients required to keep your body and mind functioning effectively. If you want to ensure you consume plenty of goodness then try blitzing a mixture of these healthy ingredients in a blender. You’ll make some unique, colourful and wholesome smoothies, and you can even add in Forever supplements – perfect for giving your smoothie that extra punch!
Alastair and Kelly Jones discovered Forever last summer, but for them it was embracing the F.I.T. programme that had the most impact on their life. In fact, Kelly truly believes it saved her husband’s...
Alastair and Kelly Jones discovered Forever last summer, but for them it was embracing the F.I.T. programme that had the most impact on their life. In fact, Kelly truly believes it saved her husband’s.
My husband Alastair and I have been Forever Business Owners since the end of August last year, and we were promoted to Supervisors in November. For us, Forever is about the products, and we have always taken them very seriously. In fact, in our house, we completely live and breathe aloe.
Alastair is especially taken by all of the fitness programmes. He completed his first C9 in September last year as before this he had gone up to a whopping 17 stone. In my opinion he was a heart attack waiting to happen; he was in a downward spiral of unhealthy eating, drinking alcohol and coffee, and snacking all of the time. Whilst on the programme he managed to lose some weight, but to be honest he wasn’t really taking it as seriously as he should have been, and by Christmas the pounds had begun to slowly creep back on.
After the holidays Ali started to read up on F.I.T.1 and F.I.T.2 and he decided to take on the challenge. He recognised that the regime would be something that would work for him as he is ex-Royal Navy and currently a police officer. Strict routine is definitely what he is used to. He decided to kick-start the programme by completing another C9 as he knew this would help focus his mind. He successfully lost a significant amount, but this time he moved directly onto the F.I.T.1 and I have honestly never seen Ali so determined to change his life. His body shape began to change, his mindset changed and his physical fitness was the best I had ever seen it. When he finished the F.I.T.1 I thought that would be it, he had already achieved so much, but after a four-day break he started on the F.I.T.2.
His body shape continued to change for the better – as did his fitness level – and, after completing all three programmes, Ali’s lifestyle and attitude towards food and exercise had completely been transformed (as had his waistline).
I truly believe that Forever has saved his life and changed it for the better. I’m sure you will agree from looking at the pictures that the change is unbelievable and his achievement is truly something to be proud of. This is firstly due to the fantastic products that Forever has provided, but secondly it’s thanks to Ali's determination to succeed.
F.I.T. Athlete, Mike Butterworth, shares his story of transformation and F.I.T. success. It’s with great excitement that I am here, writing my first blog, as one of Forever’s F.I.T. Ambassadors. I wa...
F.I.T. Athlete, Mike Butterworth, shares his story of transformation and F.I.T. success.
It’s with great excitement that I am here, writing my first blog, as one of Forever’s F.I.T. Ambassadors. I want to be upfront and tell you that I don’t have any special qualifications in fitness or nutrition; what I do have is the experience of following the programme (to the letter) from day one to sixty-nine and beyond. It’s important for you to know that I have felt the emptiness of days one and two, the temptation to miss out the ‘exercise bit’ and to eat cake instead, the feeling of optimism you get as you start to notice things changing and the sense of achievement that comes from experiencing everything you visualised.
The word beyond is key in my mind. If we view F.I.T. as a programme that lasts sixty-nine days, many of us would slide back when it finishes. It’s important therefore to embrace lifestyle changes and always to plan what’s next, before you even reach what it is you want – it stops you slowing down when you get there! So I wanted to talk about MOTIVATION. What was the trigger that got me started with F.I.T.? What helped me through the tough patches, and, one year on, what has kept me on track?
I am fairly typical of the male species in regards to health. I’m somewhat reactive; generally seeking help after things have gone wrong! Juggling three businesses, a young family and a Forever team was my excuse for losing fitness. My waist line had expanded and I felt sluggish and unattractive. Put simply, I was sick and tired of feeling sick and tired!
Moving away from what you don’t want can be a great motivator initially, but focusing on what you don’t want (lack of energy, obesity or whatever it may be for you) will, in the long run, only bring more of the same. It’s the law of attraction! It’s important to focus on what you do want so that you can move towards it with purpose. I set two goals: a target weight and a target body fat percentage. Imagining what I would feel and look like was easy – I’d been like that at age twenty.
I posted my goals around the house so that I was reminded of them every day. Regular (but not daily) measurements were very effective for keeping me on track – weekly worked well as small fluctuations are normal but can be unsettling if they dip in the ‘wrong’ direction – and I rewarded myself for hitting mini targets along the way.
Lastly, it’s important to have a longer term training goal that’s a stretch. A charity angle helps – especially if you are emotionally connected to it; ensure you have that front of mind when you need to dig deep during training or an event. My current plans are to do a three person shuttle where we cycle to London, from Harrogate, and back in under twenty-four hours, all to raise funds for a local Cancer Hospice. Mad, fun and a great way to raise funds whilst staying Forever F.I.T.
Having spent the last year preparing and training for my first competition (and achieving awesome results), I have been invited to share my top nutrition and exercise tips with you. I'm passionate abo...
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Hi
My name is Syed Qaiser Zaman. I
have found working with Forever is a really exciting opportunity as it offers extra income
and enables us to help others.
Please feel free to take a look through the website and magazines and get in touch if you need to know more.
Thank you
Syed Qaiser Zaman
If you recognise the potential in the business opportunity or just want to find out more information then please get in touch. Fill out the fields below and I will contact you as soon as possible.
