The Amazing Soursop!

Soursop is a tropical fruit of the Annonaceae family , it is a native fruit of the Caribbean and Central America but grows more predominantly in the Caribbean because of the favorable weather conditions. It got its name because of the taste and prickly texture.

I actually came across some interesting facts as well as a very inspiring Cancer related story while doing my regular readings.

Soursop is good for : Arthritis , High Blood Pressure, Diabetes, High Cholesterol , Bad Breath , Bladder Infections, Colds , Coughs , Weight Loss , Skin Infections , Fatigue , Boost your Immune System to avoid deadly infections. It also helps with the Treatment and Prevention of Cancer than Chemotherapy , Attacks Cancer safely and effectively with an all natural therapy that does not cause extreme nausea, weight loss and hair loss .

Raymond and Yvonne Kirlew with Dr. Dennis Grant (Middle)

These amazing "healing" powers of Soursop was discovered here in Jamaica by a St. Ann couple. Yvonne Kirlew was diagnosed with lymphatic cancer in 2010 and was undergoing Chemotherapy that was slowly killing her in the process . After many medical treatments the Cancer would leave then come back and it was a constant struggle . Her husband Raymond was determined that he was not ready for his wife to leave him and now turned to Nature. Raymond acted upon information he received about the uses of the leaves and bark of the Soursop and began feeding his wife the juice he extracted from the leaves daily. From then, his wife has been living Cancer Free since 2010 . This amazing story is documented in The Gleaner , and you can access the full story by clicking the link
below :

http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20121103/news/news4.html

Nature always provides the best remedies and i am a firm believer that there is a cure for everything , if only we allow ourselves to discover them . I also advise you to do extensive research as it relates to severe health conditions as Cancer .

* Image of the Kirlews courtesy of the Gleaner*

Click Here to Like Adzua on Facebook

Naturally Beautiful : Co-Washing

Good Morning Naturalistas! It is my favorite day of the week ... It's Friday :-) I have been waiting for this day all week :-)  I have decided to make Friday "Natural Hair" Day , meaning hair in its natural form that has not been altered in any way. Today , I would like to introduce you to what is known as "Co-Washing".

Gone are the days when the fuss is all about buying the most expensive Shampoo to wash your hair , it is all about the Conditioner! Consider your Shampoo de-throned. Now , Co-washing is simply using your conditioner as both Shampoo and Conditioner . If this seems strange , it will all be clear at the end of this post.

This gentle way of cleansing your hair minimises damage because Conditioners unlike Shampoos do not contain harsh sulfates that strips the hair of its natural nutrients.

How do I Co-Wash My Hair?

That's really simple. Let your hair down , then part your hair into large sections and massage into hair ( from root to tip). Repeat this process twice or maybe 3 times depending on the texture of your hair . If you have thicker hair , you would therefore need to do this more than once or twice so that the conditioner penetrates deep into your scalp. Natural Hair should be co-washed at least twice per week using your favourite Conditioner. Please note , the conditioner does not have to be expensive to be effective. ( You can find this Co-wash product in the picture above in local pharmacies. It is the Blue Magic brand and it is less that $500 jmd )

Co-washing adds the right amount of hydration to your hair and the best part is that it cuts down on frizz which is a big problem for natural hair. It makes your hair super soft and maintains your hair's natural "wave pattern". Visit Adzua Natural Hair Spa for all your hair needs.

Click To Like Us On Facebook

Call : 876.385.3885 or 876.353.8903
11 Park Avenue, Havendale

Kingston

The Purpose of A Consultation

I recently touched on what goes on at a Sisterlocks™ Consultation and i must say it was well received . Today i will like to talk about the importance of a Consultation ( generally as it relates to Natural/ Sisterlocks™ ). I know here in Jamaica , many women will skip this step and go straight into doing their hair but it is very important.

The main purpose of a Consultation is Communication . Every good stylist should learn to communicate with their clients to get a full understanding of what they want. This builds rapport between the client and stylist and might even increase the business. If one client is happy , then they are sure to introduce recommend clients. The Consultation also gives the stylist an idea of what your needs are . This is very important as it helps the stylist to make the right recommendations for you. Please also note , A Professional Consultation is done on a "one to one " basis between the client and hair stylist . It can either be done in the reception area of the salon or at the styling station.

There are also different types of consultations and they will of course differ by Salon. There are salons that will do what is known as a "Test Look" , where they style your hair according to your desire , then take it down and when you return on your next visit , the style is re-done and you actually pay . There is also the type of consultation where your hair is tested to see if you have any damages , then they will treat it to prepare for your actual visit .

During the consultation you should always tell your stylist what you want . If it is that you cannot describe it take along visual aids with you such as pictures from a newspaper or magazine or simply talk along your "Smart Device" with you . Everybody seems to have one of those these days.

The consultation in essence is geared at putting the client as ease and aims at instilling a certain amount of confidence in the hair stylist.

Call us at 876.385.3885 or 876.353.8903

Click To Like Us On Facebook

37 Windsor Avenue ,Suite # 3 

Kingston Jamaica

Big Beautiful Natural Hair!

Good Morning my Natural Beauties ... i trust you all had a wonderful weekend . There were so many events this weekend . There was Rebel Salute ,  The Jamaica Blog Awards and so many other great events ,whichever one you went to i hope you had fun . Today , i would like to talk about Natural Hair . We also offer natural hair care services here at Adzua and i thought it made sense to talk about it.

Many women are starting to fast embrace their kinky , curly , coily and awesome natural hair . If you flip through the pages of any high end magazine you are guaranteed to see a few of these natural beauties . In 2011 when Singer Solange Knowles went natural it made waves (pun intended) on the Media . In 2011 when Jamaican reported Kerri- Ann Lee went back to her natural roots many viewers where astonished. There was that "why did she do that question" and also the "Oh it actually looks good".

Natural Hair has become a lifestyle for many women who are simply tired of looking like just another girl on a Magazine cover  as it distinctively sets them apart. For those of you who are wondering , Natural Hair is simply the hair that you were born with without using heat or any form of chemicals to alter it . You can however use treatments and serums for the care and maintenance of your hair .  The quick advice i can give any woman who wants to go natural is that it's going to be a journey , there will be times when you want to give up and get a relaxer and there will definitely be times when your hair is so matted that you will want to rip it out . I recommend be patient and try to find out what other women who are on this Journey like you are doing.

We make special hair remedies for your natural hair to keep it strong and healthy and promote growth

Call 876.385.3885 or 876.353.8903

Visit us at 37 Windsor Avenue , Suite #3 

Kingston, Jamaica

Click To Like Us on Facebook

Adzua : The Story Behind the name

At the centre of the name Adzua , which is my Akan Day Name that means "Female Born On a Monday ",, there is boundless energy and enthusiasm. We are a community of artists and creatives who pour our energy into everything we do.

In our boutique natural spa we care for your mind, body and spirit, through our range of services and products that enhance and support natural beauty, awaken your senses and inspire your soul.

We consciously choose ingredients that naturally blend with your hair and body and are dedicated to providing exceptional service.

Your Premium Natural Hair,Skin and bodycare awaits.

 NURTURE YOUR ROOTS

With treatments, colour, trims,locking and retightening of Sisterlocks and Brotherlocks in the comfort of our relaxing space. Treat yourself to unique handmade accessories.

PAMPER YOUR BODY

Our natural unisex facials,manicures, pedicures and massages are at once cleansing, relaxing and stimulating. An invigorating treatment of aromatic blends of herbs, essential oils, food and minerals that will render you smooth, soft and devinely renewed.

EXPRESS YOUR PERSONALITY

Purchase a piece of art to quietly enjoy or experience the mental and spiritual journey of art making. Learn to paint in our art classes, all of which leads to a healthier and more self-aware you.

  Glow from the inside out with our Natural Beauty Blends

• Nourishing Body Butters
• Exfoliating Body Polishes
• Skin Brightening Oils

Look Good, Feel Good ...Naturally

So that's the story Behind the Adzua Name .

Click To Like us On Facebook

Call us at : 876.385.3885 or 876.353.8903

11 Park Avenue, Havendale
Kingston Jamaica

How to make a Banana Hair Mask

On a segment of the Dr.Oz Show he revealed that some of his top researchers found that Banana Hair Mask was one of their favorite at home Hair Treatments because of its effectiveness. Today , I will share with you how I make my Banana Hair Mask.

Bananas are filled with vitamins and potassium. As it relates to hair , they are great for dry brittle hair.To make the Hair Mask , you will need :

• 2 Bananas
• Egg White
• 2 Table Spoons of Natural Yogurt ( regular versus flavoured yogurt)
• 2 Tablespoons of Olive Oil
• 2 Tablespoons of Honey

Step 1: In a bowl , mash bananas until all chunks have been completely smoothed out . This is important because of the texture of the Banana.

Step 2: In a separate bowl , mix egg whites . You can get egg whites by simply removing the yolk (yellow) part of the egg.

Step 3: Combine egg and all other ingredients to the Banana mixture.

Step 4: Shampoo hair with your favourite shampoo , towel dry. Rub the mixture into your hair from root to tip.Cover your hair with a steam cap and leave for 30 minutes . This will work as a deep conditioner to repair and re-build your hair .

Step 5 : Rinse hair thoroughly and shampoo hair one last time  , then a final rinse . Take a  Shampoo brush or large tooth comb to remove any extra chunks of banana that might be hiding .

Taking care of your hair does not always mean you have to spend an arm and a leg on products . Some of the best and cheapest ingredients are right in your house .

At Adzua , we make our very own special remedies for your hair .

Call us today to schedule an appointment

876.385.3885 or 876. 353.8903

Click To Like us On FaceBook

Exercise Your Mind and Body with Yoga!

Today i want to take a break from hair for just a little while and talk about health . It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and for there to be a balance in all aspects of your life . I know when i mention exercise most of you might think its intense long hour workouts . However , in these times there are so many different forms of Exercise that is designed to meet the specific needs of each individual.


Yoga is one of these forms of exercises and is great for your mind , body and spirit.  Yoga is an ancient Indian practice which dates back to the 2500 BCE. "In Yoga , the mind and body are linked to create a sense of internal peacefulness and integration bringing the individual a state of separation to a self-unity that is flexible accepting and whole." - Angela Craig

How do i Do Yoga?

There are several Yoga centers in Jamaica . One can always go to YouTube . However , i would not recommend this in the first stages as there are special techniques that are not often revealed on YouTube that can even compromise your health ( speaking from experience) . If you decide to take up Yoga , visit a Yoga Center and they will advise you on what techniques are best for you . Yoga is done on different levels : Beginner , Intermediate and Advanced . Between these levels are different techniques each given unique Indian names. The typical gear for Yoga is clothing that is not restrictive , there are even what is known as Yoga Pants which are like stretchy sweatpants.

If you are one of those people who are looking to stay healthy while not trying to lose a lot of weight , then Yoga is right for you . You will be at peace with yourself , those around you and with the Universe. It is highly recommended that you do your own research as we are all different and have different needs .

Below are 3 Yoga Centres in Kingston where you can get more info

Core Fitness Studios

Shakti Mind Body Fitness

Giscombe Health and Wellness Centre

Click To Like Us On FaceBook

*Yoga is not done at Adzua Natural Spa*

The Adzua Pedicure

The Adzua Natural Spa  pedicure experience is second to none. We welcome you by name and introduce you to the other clients, the soothing sounds of Jazz/Classical music to get you in a relaxed mood. You are offered a choice of herbal teas  and given a choice of coffee, sugar or himalayan seasalt scrub to choose from before we start your service.

 The Adzua Pedicure is like no other.Its an organic herbal pedicure that is done in a hammered copper foot bath.  You are escorted to the Pedicure station and a serving of each herb, oil and mineral that is used in your pedicure is brought to you on a tray.

The Process 

Your Hand & Foot treatment is made from Coconut Oil , Horsetail and Garlic. The treatment is also used as a cuticle oil. The feet are then buffed with an oil buffer and placed in water ,the feet are then removed the nails are cleaned , trimmed and shaped. The sole of the feet is then scrubbed with a foot scrub to remove the dead skin cells. Then your feet is wrapped in warm towels with herbs or essential oils which is followed by a relaxing and blissful foot massage that can only be compared to being transported to another dimension in time and space.

You can  also add a pedi complement of  Seaweed or Clay wrap with a lower leg or arm hot stone massage.Then we finish off with a formaldehyde free nail polish ( for female) and if you are a male top coat is used. At the end of your  Adzua Pedicure your entire being will be at ease from the love and care you  received and of course you won't hesitate to share this experience with your friends and family:-)

Click To Like Us On Facebook

Call: 385 3885 or 353 8903

11 Park Avenue, Havendale
Kingston Jamaica

* Photos are the property of Adzua Natural Spa*

Maintenance Tips

“There is no such thing as maintenance–free Sisterlocks®!"

JoAnne Cornwell:  A Tapestry of Dreams The Sisterlocks® Book. 

Like any other hairstyle Sisterlocks® require care and maintenance for proper growth and also for the locks to set in place.  The most basic form of maintenance for Sisterlocks® include Shampooing techniques (included in the Starter Kit) and finger combing the locks to separate them especially at the root section.

It is highly recommended that you use the Sisterlocks® Family of products as they have been specially formulated; they are extremely lightweight (they will not weigh your hair down with excessive grease) It is recommended for hair to be shampooed at least once per week.

There are 3 Shampoos (2 of which come in a spray bottle). Each of these has been created for specific hair types.

Tea Water Formula

  This as a slight alkaline Ph and is great for weak/fragile hair that is difficult to soften and moisture.

Salon Formula Shampoo

  This is more of a “Clarifying Shampoo” as it gives a deeper clean. This has a slight acid Ph and is recommended for hair that has a medium or loose wave or curl pattern.

Herbal Menthol Shampoo

 Just like regular, this has a slight refreshing tingle to the scalp. However this is recommended for mature locks only.

Next we will move on to Conditioners; there are 3 main Conditioners.

Moisture Treatment

This has a cold cream consistency that works effectively on both scalp and hair.

Reconstructor

This contains a high amount of protein that is needed to strengthen and bring back life to the hair. This is especially beneficial on the fragile/weak hair types (with regular use)

Herbal Moisture Spray (with lecithin)

This can be described as a “mid week refresher” in the Sisterlocks® world. It  adds moisture to the hair.

It is highly important that you follow the instruction given by your Certified Sisterlocks® Consultant , as well as the information in your starter kit.

Call 385-3885 or 353-8903
To Schedule your appointment

37 Windsor Ave #3 , Kingston Jamaica

Click to Like us on Facebook

*This photo is the property of Adzua*

First Follow–up: Re–tightening Session

The Journey is starting to get even more exciting.  It is now time for your first follow up visit with your newly installed Sisterlocks®  Based on the information you received in the “Starter Kit” , you would have noticed that you were advised to schedule your visit when you have shampooed your hair at least two times ( usually a month from the time your locks were put in)

This is where your consultant will test the integrity of your locks and will have an idea of how long the settling process will take. This is in essence a re- tightening session so be prepared to be in the salon for most of the day.

At this stage , you will be able to discuss Styling Tips and also what look is right for you. As it relates to On-going re-tightening sessions , try to schedule them for 4-6 weeks intervals. By doing this your Consultant will be able to carefully monitor your hair . I cannot stress this enough , It is imperative to follow the instructions of your Consultants as it relates to visits and care .

Call : 385-3885 or 353-8903

To schedule an appointment

Suite #3 , 37 Windsor Ave , Kgn 5

Click To Like us on Facebook

* Photos are the property of Adzua*

The Locking Session

We are now at the second stage of starting the Sisterlocks® Process. This might be the longest stage of the process, be sure to bring a good book and prepare to relax when you come in for your locking session. On average, this can take you up to 15 hours ... give or take a few extra hours depending on the size of your head and the texture of your hair.

It is important to pre-prep your hair before coming in. Hair should be clean and in its natural state and left to air dry, if you don't get around to it?...No worries, we'll do it for you. As I mentioned in the last post, your hair should be free from serums, oils, moisturizer or any products at all....and this is best done 24-48 hours before you come in.

What to Expect

• A portion of your deposit will be collected prior the installation until at least 50% of it has been received. 
• Since you will be spending more than half a day in the Salon, expect to get periodical 2-10 minute breaks between the sessions.
• Depending on the Salon you go to, you will receive complimentary tea, water, a healthy snack or maybe even a low calorie meal. Adzua provides all our clients with their choice of a healthy tea, upon arrival.
• You will also have at your convenience: magazines, music or whatever makes you comfortable. Adzua is actually a "Hot Spot" so you will be able to take all your gadgets with you.

At the end of your locking session, you will be given what is known as a "Starter Kit" which should contain "Getting started Shampoo”, Shampoo instructions, tiny rubber bands, a tip sheet and a welcome card. The amount of locks a Sisterlocks® client usually leaves with is over 400.  As you are about to leave, your Consultant will schedule you for a "Follow Up” visit for the next 3 weeks. As I advised in my initial post, it is very important to follow the instructions of your Consultant for better results.

Call Adzua at 385-3885 or 353-8903 

To schedule an Appointment

11 Park Avenue, Havendale

Click To Like Us on Facebook

What To Expect At Your Sisterlocks® Consultation

Congrats on deciding to go down the path of your Sisterlocks® journey. You’ve done extensive research and your next step is to now set an appointment to see a Certified Sisterlocks® Consultant(Hopefully that will be Adzua). It is also important to know that there are three stages involved in the Sisterlocks® journey: Consultation (which we will be looking at today), Locking Session and the First Follow- up Re-tightening Session. According to Vol. 1 of The Sisterlocks® Journal:

" Your relationship with your Consultant is most important! Take steps to ensure this person is ethical, proficient and has a good track record”. 

With that being said each consultant should take their job very seriously and think of it as more of a lifestyle than for economic gain. They should ensure at all times that you are comfortable and of course ensure that they offer the best advice for the beauty and care of your hair.

Going In

Ensure that your hair is clean and in its natural state. No oil, gels or serums should be in your hair. For even better results, try to air dry your hair before the consultation. Think of this as "Hair Interview”. You will discuss your personal hair history in detail expressing your styling methods throughout the years (be sure to mention if you used excessive heat in your hair). You should also tell her your styling preferences: whether you like simpler hairstyles or you are more into fashion and will opt for a trendier do. It is also important to discuss your lifestyle. This is especially important because it might be the deciding factor to see whether or not Sisterlocks® is right for you. You are almost on your way to begin your journey. Next is the exciting part: You will have what is known as "test locks” where 8-12 locks are installed in your hair which will be worn for 2-3 weeks. These are done to basically see how well your hair hold the locks based on its texture, the amount of time each lock takes to set and to see the amount of scalp that is showing.

My final word of advice is that “Sisterlocks® is a journey”, there are several stages that are involved. Each of these stages has to be followed as requested by your Consultant for you to get the best results. You can find your Certified Sisterlocks® Consultant at Adzua Natural Spa

11 Park Avenue, Havendale Kingston , Jamaica

Call: 385-3885 or 353- 8903

(To make your appointment)

Click to like us on Facebook

*Photos are the property of Adzua Natural Spa and should not be duplicated*

Introduction to Sisterlocks®

Deciding to go from Permed hair to natural hair is a journey. Maintaining natural hair can be a challenge. Searching for a natural style that is functional yet fully versatile is hard to find. There is a simple solution to all of this: Sisterlocks®.

Sisterlocks® are small uniform locks that are the result of parting a unique grid by using a specialised locking tool. Unlike traditional locks, Sisterlocks® does not require the use of gels, pomades or other locking aids. The small size and unique grid easily form over 400 styled locks. Sisterlocks® have begun to come into their own as a hair care alternative that is not only acceptable, but highly sought after. When this new phenomenon came on the scene it was not readily acceptable into the corporate world right away. However, because of the size of the locks and the numerous styling options, more Corporate Managers and C.E.O's started to become more open to this look and some even went to get it done themselves.


If you decide to get Sisterlocks®, bear in mind that it is a process. In order to get started, you will first have to find a"Certified"Consultant. Please note that your hair does not have to be fully natural to have Sisterlocks®, as long as you have at least an inch and a half of new growth, you can then begin the process. Your first session should take about 15 hours. However, also take into consideration your hair length, density and the size of your head as other factors as to how long it will take.  I have included some Frequently Asked Questions below for those burning questions about Sisterlocks®.

Can Sisterlocks® be removed?

Yes! But only during the first 6 months. The hair has to be 2-4' long.However this will take longer to remove than when you had them put in. It will of course cost you more money and potential damage to the hair. Also, if you are expressing doubt whether or not to get Sisterlocks® express all your concerns to your Consultant. Chances are, they will not "lock" your hair right away until you are sure.

Are Sisterlocks® expensive?

Some people might say they are. Think of them as a lifetime investment. You will pay to have a quality hairstyle that you will have for the rest of your life. Isn't that amazing?

How do Sisterlocks® differ from other locks?

It is all in the technique. Sisterlocks® use a precise parting method and a special tool to create the small locks. No gels or waxes or anything that can weigh down the hair preventing growth is used.

All hair type that has a curl or wave pattern is just right for Sisterlocks®. There are also several locking patterns that is suited for any specific hair type®. If you decide to get Sisterlocks® remember to go to a "Certified" Sisterlocks® Consultant. A certified Consultant is one who is caring, knowledgeable professional.

Adzua Natural Spa

Offering Sisterlocks® and Brother Locks and a wide range of Services

Call : 385-3885 or 353-8903

Click To Like Us on Facebook

* Images are the property of Adzua*