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The Complete Profile of Macadamia Oil

Ethan White
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The Complete Profile of Macadamia Oil

Macadamia oil is a well known product, primarily due to its recognizable ingredient. Nuts are a highly sought after and popular snack for much of the world, and along with almonds, cashews and peanuts, macadamias are a popular choice for many. What is not well known is the many benefits that can come with the use of macadamia oil. From cooking purposes to topical skin applications and hair care, it is a multipurpose tool that can be utilized to yield many benefits. What was once a recognizable snack across the world is now slowly becoming more and more praised as a skincare and haircare product. In this article, we will discuss the history and origins of macadamia oil, as well as how it can be applied to the body to yield benefits of all different kinds. For those interested in skincare tips and/or hair care tips, then this product is definitely for you.

If you are interested in macadamia oil and want to learn more before you purchase anything, then read on.

Origin

Macadamia oil is a clear yellow liquid that comes from the compression of macadamia nuts. The product is similar to olive oil and presents in the form of a liquid. Macadamia oil is native to Australia, like the nuts that it is made up of. In fact, 70% of these nuts in the world can be traced back to a single tree in Australia! These nuts grow from the Macadamia Integrifolia, an Australian tree which sits in an environment of moist organic soil, growing for around 5-7 years. The fruit presents itself in a hard shell casing, and the nut is contained within. The nuts must be fully grown before the oils are fully accumulated within and ready for harvest. Once harvested, the liquid is clear yellow and has a sweet, nutty smell to it. The liquid is harvested by compressing large amounts of the nut, to then extract the liquid inside.

What Can It Be Used For?

Macadamia oil has a variety of purposes to which it can be applied to. More and more people are seeking out different products to use for organic skincare and haircare reasons. This is largely because people are realizing the damage that harsh chemical based products can have on them and their health. Furthermore, the natural and organic based products industry is ramping up in popularity as more people opt for these items. Macadamia oil has many different uses and can provide benefits for each of the uses below.

Cooking and Eating

This is what macadamia oil has been used for in the past primarily. Macadamia oil is a well known topping that goes with many different food combinations, especially salads (yum!). It can also be used as a substitute for many other oils in other dishes, in case some individuals are allergic to or prefer alternatives to other cooking oils. Moreover, its mild flavour makes it a perfect choice for any goods which are to be baked, as this will not influence their core flavour and will still get the job done. Additionally, because it has a higher smoke point than other oils, it makes it a perfect product for sautéing food and grilling, without having excessive smoke everywhere.

The Benefits of Cooking with Macadamia Oil

Macadamia oil can bring a lot of benefits to the individual through its use in cooking. These benefits are health-related as it contains a number of healthy ingredients. These are:

Antioxidants

You’ve probably heard this word before. Antioxidants are contained in many different healthy foods and drinks, such as tea. They help to get rid of free radicals in the body. But what exactly does that mean? Free radicals help to contribute to aging, oxidative stress and the development of numerous diseases including cancer. We think that these are definitely things you want to get rid of, and the use of macadamia oil and its consumption can help to get rid of free radicals.

Heart Health

Heart health is an important factor to consider in everyday life, as heart disease is the number one killer in Australia and America. Consuming macadamia oil can help to promote heart health. It has high levels of monounsaturated fats, which can help to lower levels of bad cholesterol, which then lowers the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Skin Application

Topical skin application is an effective way for receiving skin related benefits related to Macadamia oil. Macadamia oil is already an ingredient in a plethora of skincare products, and for good reasons too. It is important to always test any product on a small patch of skin first, to ensure you are not allergic to it. People with tree nut allergies should not use it.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a great ingredient for your skin, in any circumstance. It is absorbed well by the skin and can help to moisturise and nourish the skin. This makes it a perfect moisturiser for those long hot days, or cold and dry days. It is advised to mix macadamia oil into existing products. This way, the product is distributed and will not be too strong on the skin. The reason for this is that it is quite thick, meaning that it can clog pores and cause breakouts on the skin (acne).

Hair Conditioning

Macadamia oil can also have hair conditioning abilities. Many hair conditioners on the market currently will contain harsh chemicals which are notorious for damaging the hair over time. This can result in split ends, which doesn’t look great. Moreover, you may have to cut your hair to be able to repair it. The use of macadamia oil can help to strengthen the hair follicles, create smooth and luscious looking and feeling hair, add a sleek shine to it and can make keeping your hair in check more manageable.

How to Use It for Skin and Hair Care

Macadamia oil follows the fashion of many other similar products. For skincare products, it is best to put a few drops into the product and mixing it in. This is the best way than if you apply it directly on the skin as it can clog pores and lead to breakouts. This works best with moisturisers and lip balms which can leave a sweet smell and taste as well!

For haircare, the method is very similar. The macadamia oil is mixed into conditioner, sparingly. Too much will make the hair much too oily. The conditioner will be able to do its work simultaneously with the macadamia oil. It is advised to use a conditioner that is also organic or uses less harsh chemicals than some found in many popular products.

Overall, macadamia oil is a good choice of product for skincare and haircare and can provide many benefits to the user. These benefits include nourishing dry skin and keeping it moisturised, as well as providing a good amount of vitamin E which is essential for the skin to stay healthy. Moreover, it can act as a great partner with conditioner and will leave the hair smooth, silky and sleek. For these reasons, it is definitely a popular product on the organic market and should be heavily considered for anyone who is looking to expand their collection.

Award Winning Business Xcel-Arc Continues to Reach New Heights

Ethan White
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Award Winning Business Xcel-Arc Continues to Reach New Heights

When businesses continue to demonstrate their excellence and value to the community, it is always an honourable moment when they are recognised for their many achievements. The Trade Zone Awards is a prestigious event in which these treasured businesses are able to receive this recognition for their work. One business that has been highly decorated at the 2021 Trade Zone Awards (and Trade Zone Awards of the previous years) is Xcel-Arc. As one of the most renowned welding businesses in New Zealand, their continued innovation has more than earned them their spot in the many categories that they were successful in winning this year.

Award Winning Business Xcel-Arc

Xcel-Arc’s reputation has been steadily built over their years of service. Welding is an extremely important industry, particularly as new technologies continue to develop over the years. Welding involves joining metallic parts together with special, high-intensity heat tools. It is used in a wide range of industries and for a variety of products such as cars, construction items, railroad products, aerospace products, and more. The welding products provided by Xcel-Arc are state of the art and have revolutionised the way that the welding industry is able to operate. The decades of experience and dedication that they have demonstrated in the welding community is the key reason why they have been so successful at this year’s Trade Zone Awards.

The team at Xcel-Arc continue to innovate ways to improve the welding industry. They understand just how much our modern society relies on what they do and strive to ensure that they provide only the best services. As a team of reputable and trained electronic engineers, they have valuable knowledge on the advancements that are necessary for the industry. Their experience is crucial to the operation of the business as they can advise on aspects such as arc characteristics and performance, and the usability of the products. The manufacturing team execute the creation of this equipment with skill and precision, providing state of the art products for affordable prices.

Xcel-Arc is made up of professionals from Australia, China, and New Zealand. The welding products that this team produce have proven to perform to the highest standard. Customers are continuously satisfied by how dependable they are and how effectively they perform welding services. Lead by general manager Jeff Jones, the team work towards optimising the technology as much as possible to be as safe, reliable, and usable as possible. Their range includes a selection of Tig, Mig, Plasma cutters, Arc, and Spot welding products. All of their devices adhere to Australian-New Zealand market quality.

For Xcel-Arc, the nominations at the Trade Zone Awards keep coming every year. Each and every year, they have been taking home a number of the Trade Zone Awards. 2021 has been no exception. Throughout the year, they have continued to work hard and are now reaping the rewards of their efforts. At the 2021 Trade Zone Awards, Xcel- Arc achieved the following:

  • Supreme Supplier of the Year 2021
  • Supplier of the Year for Marketing & Promotion
  • Supplier of the Year for Sales
  • Supplier of the Year for Customer Service
  • Finalist – Supplier of the Year for Logistics & Operations

This is a huge number of achievements for the company and pays to tribute to just how integral their work has been to the welding industry. As a supplier, they are highly valued for their exemplary products and the dedication that they show to outstanding customer service.

Xcel-Arc has received awards from the Trade Zone Awards each and every year since 2015. While some companies win one award and believe this to be enough, Xcel-Arc continue to go above and beyond to consistently prove their professionalism and passion. 2021 has been one of their most successful years yet at the Trade Zone Awards and there is no doubt that this will only motivate them to push further.

It is clear that Xcel-Arc have a great passion for what they do as a company and what is even better is that this passion is clearly paying off and making a difference in the world. Being recognised by your peers with even one award is a huge achievement. For Xcel-Arc to win multiple each year is a testament to their hard work and its benefits. The team continue to shape the welding industry with their range of cutting edge tools and have proved their abilities time and time again through not only the awards they win, but the satisfaction of their customer base.

The essential features to look out for when picking a virtual phone system

Ethan White
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0
The essential features to look out for when picking a virtual phone system

A virtual phone system is an important platform and technology to be utilized by businesses across the world and is the leading form of communication for large companies and corporations. When it comes to business, communication is key for the efficiency of a company to thrive. Employees need to be able to contact each other within a company, whether that be interdepartmental or to other employees in different geographic locations. If the business is customer facing and has a heavy reliance on customer engagement, then a virtual phone system provides a platform which allows easy contact and deliverance of communications. Regardless of what your business is, it is likely that it falls into one of the previously mentioned categories. Therefore, your business will need a communication system. When picking a platform to use, you will need to do your research and ensure the choice you are going with will include certain necessary features that make it a good choice and will integrate well with your current business model and setup.

Listed and outlined below are some of the essential features to look out for when picking a virtual phone system.

Forwarding and routing of calls

An important aspect for any business that is customer facing is the ability to forward and route calls to the intended persons. A virtual phone system will give the user the ability to set up an automated voice service which will allow them to pick options pertaining to their issue and/or who they want to contact. A virtual phone system will allow you to be able to create these options using a voice, and the user will engage with the system in order to reach their contact. Moreover, calls can be engaged with by one employee and then routed to another. This will ensure that the customer will be able to get in touch with who they need to.

Easy to use platform

Using a virtual phone system should be easy, and all features should be visualized in a simple way on the platform. What sets apart a good virtual phone system from a bad one is the ability to be able to select functions and features easily as well as navigate easily through the platform. For many people, tech is not their strong suit, and these platforms are integrated across entire companies. This means that any employee within the company should be able to use the platform at first glance. A simple user interface will maximize the user experience and is an essential part of any platform. Stay away from needlessly complex platforms with functionality that is much too advanced for your company to use.

Easy accessibility

Accessibility within a virtual phone system is essential. Any employee that has the platform installed on their device should be able to access their contacts, make and receive calls and use the functions without any problems. This is part of what makes a virtual phone system so great, and if it cannot deliver its features and functionality through a device with Internet connection, then it is not worth purchasing. Many businesses will have their employees on the move and placed in different locations, and as such, a virtual phone system must be able to provide its functionality from anywhere with an Internet connection.

A virtual phone system is a necessity for many businesses; however, it is important to check that it has the features and functionality required of it before purchasing it for your company. For better communication with your employees and customers, these platforms are a must.

Russell Herbert Jack, Southland Native, Shares What to See and Do in New Zealand Post-Pandemic

Ethan White
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Russell Herbert Jack, Southland Native, Shares What to See and Do in New Zealand Post-Pandemic

Consisting of two main islands, New Zealand is a beautiful nation in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. To the traveler, New Zealand is soft evening light with a glass of local wine in hand, ancient rock formations, and cruising through glacial fjords on kayaks. To the Lord of the Rings fan, it is paradise. To the person in search of serenity, peace, and quiet, it is quite simply heaven. And even though New Zealand is closed for tourism at this moment, it’s never too early to plan your next adventure! In this article, Russell Herbert Jack, Southland native and yoga instructor, shares his insights on what to see and do in New Zealand once the borders open back up.

On your next trip to New Zealand, there are a few things that you might want to see or do. Here are a few of Russell’s favorite picks.

Hobbit Movie Set

Movie buffs from across the globe are sure to enjoy this fantastic tour. Immerse yourself in middle-earth culture by visiting the set replicated from a number of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies and the renowned Green Dragon Inn. This might just be a mecca to fans of the J.R.R. Tolkien series.

Say “Kia Ora” to Culture in Rotorua

Discover the rich Maori traditions and cultures by immersing yourself in the cultural heart of New Zealand. Rotorua is a stunning location that accurately replicates what life was like for the ancient Maori people. Visitors to the area can enjoy traditional meals, such as the hangi feast. To soak off after the feast, you can head to the nearby thermal hot pools.

Milford Sound

Milford Sound is most famously known for its breathtaking landscape of fjords and waterfalls nestled under snow-capped peaks. Milford Sound has been affectionately termed as the Eighth Wonder of the World, and after kayaking in-between the fjords or flying over them by helicopter, you will understand why it has been given this moniker.

The Bay of Islands

New Zealand is home to 144 islands, a paradise for anyone who enjoys swimming with dolphins, cruising, or sun tanning on beaches. The waters are crystal clear, marine life is abundant, and the potential for relaxation and unwinding is always high.

Ancient Lava Flows

The best way to experience ancient lava flows is to hike the Tongariro Alpine crossing. This 19 km hike takes travelers past perfect emerald lakes and old lava flows. The trail ends at an ancient volcanic crater that is sure to mesmerize.

Attend a Yoga Retreat

New Zealand offers a variety of wonderful yoga retreats in the most beautiful corners of the islands. Enjoy yoga sessions with utterly stunning views to calm your mind and soul. If you are up for a challenge, try stand-up paddleboard yoga!

For movie buffs and nature lovers alike, it is tough to ignore the call of New Zealand. This stunning island nation is sure to leave any traveler pleased with their journey.

About Russell Herbert Jack
Russell Herbert Jack, Southland Yoga Training Founder, is a 25-year-old yoga instructor and mindfulness teacher from Southland, New Zealand. He is passionate about spirituality, the vegan lifestyle, animal rights, and living in sync with nature. Russell specializes in Vinyasa Yoga, Qigong, and guided meditations.

Russell Jack of Southland Reveals 5 Science-Backed Ways Yoga May Help with Weight Loss

Ethan White
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0
Russell Jack of Southland Reveals 5 Science-Backed Ways Yoga May Help with Weight Loss

Yoga is a way to get flexible and release stress, right? It’s effective for both.  However, yoga may also help you control your weight if you do it regularly. It’s not that yoga is a major calorie burner. The number of calories you burn during yoga depends on the type of routine you do and your sessions’ length. Yoga doesn’t burn as many calories per minute as running, jogging, or cycling at a moderate to a brisk pace. Hatha yoga burns as few as 180 calories per session. Despite this, research shows that people who do yoga have an easier time controlling their weight. In this article, Russell Herbert Jack of Southland Yoga Training looks at some of the ways yoga helps with weight loss and weight control.

By Relieving Stress and Lowering Cortisol

One of the reasons people do yoga is to ease stress. Do you ever notice how “chilled” you feel after a relaxing yoga session? Those relaxed feelings work in your favor if you’re trying to lose weight. Chronic stress boosts cortisol, a hormone your adrenal glands produce when you’re stressed out. Studies show that yoga helps tame excess cortisol, so you feel more relaxed and less uptight.

Why is high cortisol a problem when you’re trying to lose weight?  It worsens food cravings, especially for sugary and fatty foods that are most likely to expand your waistline. Plus, cortisol changes where your body stores fat. With a higher cortisol level, you’re more likely to store fat around your waistline and tummy, which boosts your odds of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

By Changing How You Eat

Another reason people do yoga is to increase mindfulness. Being mindful means living in the moment and appreciating what your senses perceive in the here and now. Mindfulness helps you make better food choices too. When you’re mindful, you don’t make decisions on autopilot. You stop and think about what you’re putting into your body.

Plus, being mindful teaches you to appreciate every aspect of what you eat – the taste, textures, and aroma. With greater awareness and enjoyment of every bite, you naturally consume fewer calories. People who start doing yoga often report a change in their tastes. Ultra-processed foods and sugar offer less appeal, and they enjoy more whole foods in their natural state.

Greater Body Awareness

When you do yoga poses, you become more aware of how your body moves and how you breathe. Such awareness empowers you and encourages you to adopt other healthy habits that make it easier to control your weight. You develop a greater understanding of how your mind affects your mental and physical health and are less likely to make decisions that harm your health or body weight.

Yes, Yoga Burns Calories Too

Although most yoga forms don’t burn as many calories as running long distances or doing high-intensity interval training, some yoga types, due to their fast-paced nature, are effective calorie burners. Two examples are Vinyasa yoga and power yoga. Both types of yoga strengthen and increase muscle endurance. Therefore, they offer some of the benefits of weight training. Plus, they boost your heart rate more than slower yoga forms, like Hatha, meaning you burn more calories. The take-home message? If you’re trying to lose weight, including some Vinyasa and power yoga in your sessions is a great idea.

Better Sleep

You might not think that sleep is closely tied to weight control, but it is. Research shows lack of sleep boosts ghrelin, an appetite hormone that makes you hungry, and suppresses leptin, a satiety hormone that helps you feel fuller. Therefore, you may eat more total calories when you skimp on sleep. Plus, people tend to make less healthy food choices when they’re sleep-deprived. When you’re tired, you’re more likely to pick up convenience food than cook a nutrient-dense meal.

Can yoga help you sleep better too? A study in older adults found that those who practiced yoga enjoyed improved sleep quality, fell asleep faster, and felt more energized during the day. It’s not surprising that yoga improves sleep quality since it helps people better deal with stress. Worry and anxiety are two common reasons that people have trouble falling asleep.

The Bottom Line

Even if yoga isn’t a significant calorie burner, it has added benefits that can help you lose weight or better control your body weight.

About Russell Herbert Jack
Russell Herbert Jack is a founder of Southland Yoga Training in Invercargill, New Zealand. He is passionate about spirituality, the vegan lifestyle, animal rights, and living in sync with nature. Russell specializes in Vinyasa Yoga, Qigong, and guided meditations. Vinyasa yoga or flow yoga heightens consciousness by moving from one position to another seamlessly, using breath. Just like Vinyasa Yoga, Qigong has many healing properties to the body, mind, and spirit.

 

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