Last month, we did a round up of our favourite Takealot Cult Classics – you loved it so much, we decided to bring you more. 

There’s a certain joy in finding a self-care product that delivers exactly what it promises—something that enhances your routine and actually feels like a daily pleasurable indulgence rather than a chore. Whether it’s a hydration boost, a gut-health fix, a skincare essential or a book that can transform the way you think; the right pick can be the catalyst to achieving your personal wellness goals for body, mind and more. 

Not long ago, getting your hands on broad-spectrum wellness gems often meant scouring international retailers or dealing with long shipping times, or heading to obscure health stores in far-flung places. Now, Takealot is making it easier than ever to access some of the best self-care products without the wait. We’ve put together a list of our thirteen must-haves in the health and wellness segment that are available right now—ones we think deserve a spot in your routine, on your journey to be your very best self. 

Gloot’s Protein Water

In recent years, protein has become the undisputed star of the wellness zeitgeist, celebrated both as the key to muscle gains and as a solution to strength and vitality in our continued understanding of women’s health. Reaching your protein goals is absolutely essential for every cell in the body, supporting muscle repair, hormone production, and overall metabolic function— and now, there are multiple ways to make those gains beyond our idea of a heavy, steak dinner. A game-changer in functional hydration, Gloot’s Protein Water in Tropical Crush flavour is a refreshing, easy-to-digest source of protein. Unlike traditional shakes, which can feel heavy, this ultra-light, fruit-infused water delivers 15g of protein per bottle without added sugars or artificial nasties. Whether post-workout, mid-afternoon, or as a recovery boost, it supports muscle repair and keeps you energised without bloating. Hydration and protein in one? Perfect. 

The Harvest Table Multi Collagen Powder

Collagen is the scaffolding of our skin, joints, and gut health— and by the time we turn 25, our skin begins to lose its natural collagen stores, leading to reduced elasticity and firmness. We know, it’s scary babes, but fear not. We live during a time in which it’s easier than ever to combat the onset of our biological clocks. Cue, The Harvest Table’s Multi Collagen Powder that combines Type I, II, and III collagen peptides to maximise bioavailability and benefits (the different types just mean they target various tissues—Type I for skin and hair, Type II for joints, and Type III for gut and connective tissue support). This powerhouse blend promotes skin elasticity, joint mobility, and stronger hair and nails. Tasteless and easy to mix into coffee, smoothies, or soup, it’s a non-negotiable way to future-proof your body from the inside out.

Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One

Self-help books are out, and self-rewiring manuals are IN. If you’ve ever wanted to meditate your way into a new frame of mind — Dr Joe Dispenza is your man. Dispenza’s seminal book, Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself, blends neuroscience, quantum physics, and meditation techniques to help you break free from limiting thought patterns or those that perpetuate negative thinking. If you’ve ever felt stuck in cycles of self-doubt and unhealthy thought patterns, this book offers practical tools to reshape your mindset, making it a must-have in any self-care arsenal. It truly does show you how to re-wire your thinking for a more positive outlook which can only be good for us.  We’re over self-limiting beliefs and as some might say, you are what you think. The appeal of Dr Joe Dispenza is that he treats meditation less like a spiritual escape and more like a daily mental workout. No fluff, just focus.

Wazoogles Superfood Protein Blend

Wazoogles is the gold standard of superfood protein powders. Packed with organic plant-based protein, adaptogens, and nutrient-dense superfoods like maca, lucuma, and chia seeds, it’s designed to nourish on a cellular level, and it’s made even better by its rich, indulgent flavours that transform smoothies into nutrient-packed treats. Unlike conventional protein powders that focus solely on protein content, Wazoogles Superfood Protein Blend provides a full spectrum of nutrients that support energy, digestion, and hormone balance. Plus, its whole-food ingredients mean better absorption and no synthetic additives—just pure, functional nutrition. 

Stainless Steel Gua Sha

A centuries-old beauty ritual turned modern essential, the Gua Sha tool lifts, depuffs, and sculpts the face while improving circulation and lymphatic drainage. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, gua sha (meaning ‘scraping sand’) was originally used to promote healing by increasing blood flow and releasing stagnant energy, or ‘chi.’ Whether used with facial oil or serum, it relieves tension, boosts glow, and enhances product absorption. While traditionally crafted from jade or rose quartz, stainless steel finds itself as a leading material for Gua Sha design in the new age; as its naturally antibacterial, ultra-durable, and non-porous, while staying cool and glides effortlessly for deeper, more effective sculpting. A five-minute ritual that transforms dull, tired skin into sculpted radiance? Yes, please.

Olio’s Body Brush 

Babes, are you dry-brushing? Dry brushing is an ancient wellness practice that involves using a firm-bristled brush on dry skin in upward strokes to promote detoxification and renewal. By encouraging lymphatic flow, it helps flush out toxins, reduces puffiness, and supports overall skin health. Regular use can improve skin texture and unclog pores, and even enhance the body’s natural ability to shed dead skin cells. The Olio Body Brush stimulates lymphatic drainage, boosts circulation, and gently exfoliates, leaving skin ultra-soft while reducing the appearance of cellulite. This is a must-do pre-shower ritual that wakes up both your body and mind; remember, your body is an intricate system that requires movement and flow in order to function optimally.

Olio’s Tongue Scraper 

Oral health can often be overlooked in self-care, especially the varying ways to practise it. As part of an age-old practice rooted in Ayurvedic tradition, tongue scraping is a simple yet powerful tool to support gut health and oral health, by reducing toxins that build up overnight. By clearing away the bacteria and debris that accumulate on the tongue, tongue scraping helps prevent harmful microbes from being swallowed and disrupting the gut microbiome. Olio’s stainless-steel tongue scraper is a daily essential, and removes said bacteria, improves breath, and enhances taste perception, with effortless perfection. A cleaner tongue means a healthier digestive system; literally though, oral bacteria play a key role in everything from inflammation to nutrient absorption. 

Le Live hydration spray

A mist of instant freshness, South Africa’s fave, Le Live, has a Hydration Spray that is skin-quenching, antioxidant-rich spritz that revives and soothes. Whether used post-cleanse, over makeup, or after sun exposure, it restores moisture levels and calms inflammation in your skin. The size is a travel-friendly essential and as we head into winter; we definitely want to maintain that dewy, healthy skin all season long.

Avene Eye Cream

Our delicate under-eyes need extra care, and Avene’s Eye Cream truly delivers. As the skin around the eyes is thinner and more sensitive, it requires targeted products that address its unique needs for hydration and protection. Infused with thermal spring water, Avene’s Eye Cream hydrates, soothes puffiness, and reduces fine lines. Its gentle formulation is perfect for sensitive skin, offering an instant refresh while protecting against environmental stressors. With consistent use, it helps strengthen the skin barrier, leaving the under-eye area smoother, brighter, and more resilient. 

Kiko Vitals ‘Heal Your Gut Duo’

A healthy gut is the foundation of overall wellness, and Kiko Vitals’ ‘Heal Your Gut Duo’ is designed to restore balance from the inside out. This proudly South African brand offers a two-step system which includes a high-quality probiotic to repopulate beneficial gut bacteria, and a potent gut cleanser that removes toxins and supports digestion. Whether you struggle with bloating, sluggish digestion, or skin flare-ups, this duo works synergistically to promote better gut function, boost immunity and enhance nutrient absorption. Given the gut’s profound link to mental health, skin clarity, and energy levels, this is a must-have for anyone looking to optimise their well-being. And to all our gals, good gut health is particularly essential for hormonal balance. 

Clarins Lip Comfort Oil

Clarins Lip Comfort Oil is a skincare treatment disguised as a beauty product. Infused with nourishing plant oils like organic jojoba, hazelnut, and rosehip, it deeply conditions while adding a subtle sheen to your lips. Unlike traditional glosses, it’s non-sticky, lightweight, and is intended to improve the health of your lips over time. Whether you wear it alone for a naturally plump look or as a topper over lipstick, this oil is sure to keep your lips deeply hydrated and oh so gorge.  

Dr Paw Paw Original Palm

A true multi-tasking essential, Dr Paw Paw Original Balm is one of those products that belongs in every bag. Made with papaya fruit extract, aloe vera, and castor oil, this fragrance-free formula has the range to hydrate, and heal everything from dry skin, to chapped lips, and even rough cuticles. It can even double as a glossy highlighter, a brow tamer, or an emergency hand cream. It’s giving range, darling. The beauty of this balm lies in its simplicity—just one tube does it all, making it a go-to for low-maintenance, effective self-care.

Pure Beginnings Activated Charcoal Toothpaste

For a naturally brighter smile without harsh chemicals, Pure Beginnings Activated Charcoal Toothpaste is a standout. Activated charcoal has come out as our greatest natural ally in teeth whitening; gently polishing away stains and plaque-build up in one fell swoop. Pure Beginning’s version is infused with xylitol and organic aloe that soothe gums and balance oral pH, and it’s free from fluoride, artificial sweeteners, and SLS. This is a clean, non-toxic choice for those prioritising both oral health and overall well-being; and don’t worry, that minty taste is still very much present, for the ultimate, fresh pearly-white feeling. 

Written by: Holly Beaton

For more news, visit the Connect Everything Collective homepage www.ceconline.co.za

Do you ever feel like, if you don’t go out for a R400 lunch at a second-best friend’s acquaintance’s luncheon, you’ll face a slow social death? Have you ever been brought close to tears by a free parking bay, only to realise that you’re about to get cut off by a shitty driver? What about that matcha latte you’re sipping on? Did you pay R10 extra for oat milk that is predominantly seed oil? If you answered yes to some of the above questions, then we bid you a happy welcome to adulthood, welcome to city life in the midst of a cost of living crisis! 

This is a game that is neither cheap nor easy, but should you win a few rounds, you could get your hands on some big rewards. These may include: Student loan debt relief, a downpayment for a house, or a big big promotion. 

Obstacle levels and challenges include 1) Filling up your petrol tank before the midnight increase 2) Saying no to the pop-up opening scheduled 2 days before payday 3) Making it home with your wallet, keys and dignity intact. Bonus points if you can hide your cat in your apartment block without losing your deposit. Living in one of South Africa’s cities is a game in and of itself.

Step 1: Pick Your Fighter

Before you enter the challenge, I implore you to gain a keen understanding of your character, this is a must when the stakes are high. In this case, consider that the stakes are your shelter, your social life, stability, and emotional and physical well-being. So, it’s better to decipher your financial archetype and its origin story early on. According to Vangile Makwakwa, author of What’s Your Money Personality, depending on who you are and who raised you, you will be one of five archetypes. Think of this like your character arc. At your worst, it’s a villain origin story. At your best, it’s the start of the Hero’s Journey. 

• The Sweet One wants to spoil the people around them. Their treat-yourself mentality is infectious and generous. They know their friends and family are broke, so they splurge for the casual hang.

Strengths: Pleases people

Weaknesses: People-pleaser  

• The Destroyer lives in fight mode. They’re confrontational and combative, and don’t mind moving in their own direction even when it’s uncomfortable. They’re capable of losing and building several fortunes in a lifetime, knowing that half their salary will be spent in the first 5 days of the month anyway.  

Strengths: Resilient

Weaknesses: Combative

• The Fixer is crafty, logical and money-conscious. They know what to do and which savings account to draw from in crisis. Their Excel spreadsheets are impressive, and they stand to have a budding career as a CEO. At home, they’re loved by parents and envied by siblings. 

Strengths: Altruistic

Weaknesses: Controlling

• The Runaway believes that a gut feeling is the same as a budget. When the numbers don’t add up, they turn on flight mode to avoid the drama, claiming that the energy is ‘toxic’. 

Strengths: Independent

Weaknesses: Avoidant 

• The Eternal Child says I’m Baby and means it. Their Peter Pan psychology struggles to reckon with responsibility. They may seem like fun, but honestly, they have no idea if they’re tax-compliant. 

Strengths: Youthful  

Weaknesses: Useless

Step 2: The Name of the Game 

Fortunately, like in every game, each player has an opportunity to level up. Makwakwa argues that if we can address our wounds then we can begin to heal our psyche, changing the way we process information and respond to external events and crises. To unlearn the bad money habits we picked up from our upbringing, the sweet one must address fears of setting boundaries, the fixer’s fear of losing control, or the eternal child’s fear of taking responsibility. Her approach reminds us that assigning personal responsibility can help us regain agency. But, as compelling as it is to look inward, one must also remember that external obstacles still exist to throw us off course. In a cost of living crisis, where prices rise and VAT increases but minimum wage stays low and social relief only increases incrementally, the foundations upon which we build our lives are at odds with themselves. 

All over the world, industry is impacted by layoffs, labour is displaced by technology, public-interest R&D is halted in the face of fickle politics and grant remits. Globalism introduces new competition, and only the biggest survive. Native businesses struggle against the Temus and Sheins, proving that a squeaky clean record means little in comparison to cheap prices and quick delivery. All of this only to leave work and, on your way home, be reminded of an ongoing housing crisis that fills the streets of one of the ‘world’s best cities’. In that same city, landmarked neighbourhoods, iconic in the country’s social fabric, are at risk of erasure in favour of new duplexes and complexes developed for the digital nomads who spike rental prices and slowly push out the country’s middle class. In the face of such immense obstacles, advanced gameplay seems futile. And yet, we still tell ourselves that budgeting better, put savings away, and joining the 5 am club will fix things. 

But even then, city centres tend to trigger our worst financial habits. Distractions compel us to overdo it, to escape into excess and entertainment. Whether you’re blowing all your coin at the club, or jumping between overburdened side hustles, the city brings out our most impulsive, hedonistic behaviour. The towering advertisements and tourist-oriented glamour of miso-marinated restaurants and sponsored parties lure you in like glitter pretending to be gold.

And for a short while, it will be beautifully fulfilling. But for all its delicious decadence, the reality of your credit statement is not easily avoidable. Part of the problem with cosmopolitan living is that it tricks you into believing you have access. But after rubbing shoulders with the 1%, the bill will remind you that you’re still a part of the 99. Yes, the door is wide open, but certain barriers will keep you from getting your foot in. 

The Cheatcode? 

Marx’s Economic determinism posits that culture, politics and society are fundamentally shaped by market forces. Newton was also a deterministic thinker, who said that rules govern outcomes. Systems can be understood, mastered and optimised. This thinking implies that if we control the variables, then success can follow. Understand the economic cycles, and you can forecast, model or predict a better outcome. But in an economy seemingly ruled by disorder, and a stochastic world where everything is in flux, the only solution seems to be reliance on uncertainty. This leaves us wondering whether we’re trapped in a game with no reward, or simply lost in a side quest. 

On the one hand, we are compelled to believe that we have agency, that we exist during a time when anything is possible and opportunity is infinite – that we can pull ourselves out from down and out if we really want to win. It’s more encouraging, and perhaps more productive, to believe that interpersonal change can supersede market determinants. But on the other hand, economic fluctuations leave many feeling powerless. Although, for now, the best we can do is come to terms with what we can control in uncertainty, maybe there’s also value in recognising that this rat race is a little rigged. Try as we might to fix things ourselves, sometimes the game is to blame. If that’s true, then perhaps it’s up to the “developers, the designers and the programmers” to start fixing broken code. Maybe only then will the cost of living become easier to cheat?

Written by Drew Haller

For more news, visit the Connect Everything Collective homepage www.ceconline.co.za

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