You probably recognize Dr.Hess from your childhood and even though I just discovered the brand I can say it truly does have certain healing powers. I spend a good portion of my time designing jewelry and some of it is made from wire, which cuts my hands and dries up my skin. I have also had serious dry skin since I was a child and I am glad to have been alerted to the brand and the relief it can provide.  If it was good enough for the cows and their farmers tough skin, it must be good enough for the delicate skin of a baby.

You should also try their lip balm and if you are a mom there is Udder Ointment for your baby’s diaper rash.

Who has time for manicures anymore, simply soak your clean fingers in room temperature (or warm) olive oil and you will get smooth and soft skin.  Olive Oil has many uses that are both beautiful and healthy. Nail polish is optional.

What is the secret to great skin? I might not have an answer to that but I do know that letting worn out and used up makeup hang out in your purse is the secret to bad skin. The best example of this are makeup brushes. Since you use them on your whole face, this is one essential tool you want to make sure is new, clean and made with quality. Even the non-superficial will tell you that neglected skin is not attractive and a turn off.

The best thing you can do for your skin is take the necessary steps to do your best and leave the rest up to mother nature, or your dermatologist. The most common mistakes women make is forgetting to take their makeup off at night. No matter how tired you are drag yourself to that sink because you will pay for it the next day.

Now onto the subject of makeup brushes. I have had a chance to try different type of brushes, my current favorite are from Chanel. They are made from 100% natural hair but tend to be on the expensive side.

I am always on a search for a new makeup brush and have recently tried the DermaBrush Collection vegan brushes from DermaQuest. Their brushes are super soft and do not shed, this is a big deal in a world of beauty products. All the makeup brushes are made from high quality synthetic fibers and are naturally antimicrobial. If you are a beauty junkie that is thinking about switching to a more Eco friendly brush this one is for you. My personal favorite is a big fluffy brush called the Kabuki brush and the pro-multi task eye brush for applying eye shadow.  They are both perfect for my purposes, however all their brushes are great to use.

Image via TimeOut Magazine

I have had the chance to try what La Falaise has to offer and my personal favorite is Organic Argan. Argan oil is known for its nutritive and regenerative properties.  The anti oxidant properties of Argan oil combat the signs of aging, providing you with gentle exfoliation and zero irritation.  Argan oil seems to have regenerative powers that help you feel restored and energized after your bath. You would be amazed at the difference natural products can make in how you take your bath.

Take a look at their line to find your personal favorite, http://www.savonlafalaise.com.

The natural creations from the W3LL People are created under the careful eye of a tree hugger James Walker, a makeup artist (the former corporate leader for NARS) Shirley Pinkso and a dermatologist Renee Snyder MD.  What a combination. The very impressionable brand has been popping up all over the mainstream media. I am glad because they serve us with the same philopshy I believe in. Just like me they wonder who invented the idea of packing our skincare and makeup with fake promises and unnatural chemicals. They urge their clients to make small changes in their every day routines and look fabulous while doing it. How can you argue with that?

The multi use of these goodies is the best part. Apply by finger to face and carefully use on cheeks, eyes and lips.

Take a peek a their product packed with natural goodness, your face will thank you for it. Looking your best has just been made easier the natrual way by the W3LL People. Well worth the the Organic Envy, watch out for them in the store near you. http://www.w3llpeople.com

Step 1. Designate a time to take a relaxing bath, even if it is just for 10 or 15 minutes.  Every girl needs to splurge on a luxurious bubble bath. By splurge I mean just buy one that suits you.  My current favorite is an orange lavender, EO bubble bath.

Step 2. Make yourself some green tea. Yes, tea.

Step 3. You will be using the tea bags on your troubled eyes.  You can recycle and use the ones from your tea or simply run new tea bags under hot water and cool in the refrigerator. Make sure the tea bags are chilled and put on your “crying out for help” eyes.

No time for bath?  Just use the tea bags and let me know the difference it has made in the way your eyes look and feel immediately after. Things do not get easier than step 1, 2 & 3. I promise those dark circles will be gone and you will love doing this to relax yourself after a hard day at work.

The interesting parts of the book also include an analysis of your horoscope and tell you a bit about yourself, in case you already did not know.  I found the book helpful and entertaining, especially since it brought back memories of my Eastern European upbringing and its lessons of doing things the natural way.  My plan is to try some of the appealing recipes. If you want to try a relaxing at home spa on those pamper me nights or just a quick skin fix buy this book or look up the online version.  It is worth it, very organized and once you open it you can tell it comes from the heart. You can also watch a video of Narine Nikogosian demonstrating one of her recipes.

Narine is trained in nursing with concentration in dermatology.  She is a well respected esthetician who ran a successful salon in Glendale, California. The book represents the core of who she is and shares the natural beauty secrets of our grandmothers.

Go to http://www.returntobeautythebook.com to learn more.

Cancer is not a nice word and when one is effected by it it is a fight and realization how precious life really is. Life life to the fullest each day, spend some time with the ones closest to you and look into the eyes of your loved ones.  They might not be here tomorrow.

I have seen way too many YouTube videos about anorexia lately and I cannot seem to stop thinking about all the girls/women out there who are struggling and suffering from anorexia or bulimia. Beauty=health+happiness.  If you have neither then what is the point. 

In the name of fashion there are all kinds of images floating out there in the tv and Internet world.  I post many of them myself. As a lifestyle writer for the Organic Spa Magazine I am behind a healthy lifestyle.  No misinterpretations included. Embrace the body you were born with and work with what god has given you.  That is truly beautiful.  I know some of the most beautiful women who are not a size 0 or 2.  They radiate and shine, they love themselves and treat their bodies with respect. The images you see in the media are not real, they are retouched, distorted and there to sell the product.  There needs to be more variety in the way media portrays beauty and the masses will follow.  

Life is too fragile and precious to waste it away on what others think, live by your own rules and cherish your body like the temple it is.  You only have ONE.

                     If I happened to be a Manhattan lunching lady and wanted to meet the girls for a yummy treat I would head to the privately owned Joanna Vargas Skin Cares spa. There you can “feed your face” with delicious antioxidant vegetables.  This seems to be the most creative Fall facial and it would go perfectly with my pumpkin and cinnamon infused hair.  Take a peek at the specials:

Appetizer: Diamond peel microdermabrasion to remove surface dirt and dead skin cells.
 
Entree:  Pumpkin and Yam Natural Enzyme Peel.  Rich in Beta-Carotene, Vitamin A and C, antioxidants.  Encourages healthy cell turnover.  Brightens hyper pigmented areas.  Raises hydration levels.  Willowbark extract keeps pores clear. 
 
Just Desserts: LED Light Therapy and Soothing Pure Oxygen Treatment

The salon prides itself on top customer service and making you feel like the Manhattan, or out of town, princess that you are.  Their professionals use non invasive techniques to provide you with anti aging and natural ways to a perfectly fresh new you.  Did I mention they represent the green lifestyle as well as sell all organic products? 

This salon is owned by an an esthetician Joanna Vargas, well know among celebrities.  Joanna is on a constant search for organic and gentle products that will provide her clients with a pleasant experience.   The Joanna Vargas Skin Cares spa & boutique sounds like a perfectly private place to rejuvenate and improve on the already fabulous you.  Since it was my birthday last week I am feeling a need to treat myself to glowing skin.  When booking in October use a secret password “BOO!” for a discount.

 Energy Foods

Carbohydrates and protein are essential for endurance throughout the day. I know carbohydrates have a bad reputation but picking the right ones according to your specific needs is quite important for a balanced diet.

First I do want to mention that skipping a meal as a result of rushing in the morning is very common but also so very bad.  I know I am guilty of this and I see my energy dragging right away.

Breakfast-cereals, yogurt, oatmeal, fruit, hard boiled eggs, whole grain toast, berries

Lunch and Dinner-lean proteins, fish, vegetables, flax seeds and flax seed oil (especially good if you do not eat fish), lentils, beans

Important Snacks-oranges, apples, bananas, carrots, almonds, dried fruits

Indulgence-dark chocolate, tea, coffee, peanut butter

It is also important to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day, especially if you drink caffeinated drinks.  Drinking water is the best solution for detoxifying and hydrating.  Your skin will thank you as well.

With that said I can also safely say that repairing your hair does not have to cost a fortune.  There are natural remedies used to treat damaged hair and they are amazing for healthy hair as well.  When I was a little girl my mother used steamed Nettle right from our back yard and it worked miracles.

Steamed Nettle

Warning: This plant has stinging hairs that cause skin irritation on contact, it is not poisonous but it will give you an itching/burning sensation.  When working with this plant wear gloves, if you do happen to come in skin contact with it have no worries, it is harmless. 

Step 1. Take 10 handfuls of fresh or died nettle and put it in 5 litters of cold water. 

Step 2. Let it come to almost a boiling point and afterwards let it sit for about 10 minutes.  

Step 3. Use a strainer to drain the plants out of your fresh water/plant extract

Step 4. Let it cool and use it on your hair after washing.  You should see results right away. 

Sometimes I chose to highlight and post about brands or products which might not be all organic, however I know that I have personally tried them and they are simply great and most definitely not harmful.  In my personal opinion living a happy  and healthy lifestyle is about using products which make us feel good and are good for our bodies too.  As always check what is in your product, you might be shocked at the ingredients.  Here is a website I have mentioned before, use it to check on your daily beauty products.  http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com

If you know of a product, individual or a brand that is worthy of attention please let me know.  Did I mention I love handmade things.  Keep the messages coming!

Take a small clean towel, either wet it in really hot water or microwave it once wet.  Use an exfoliating scrub, not mild, you need to use something harsher to fight the dryness. Rub and massage the dry skin away with your towel and scrub. Afterwards wash away with clean water.  Repeat if necessary.  It is also smart to try using an exfoliating scrub that has peppermint or some sort of a relieving scent in it. Use a soothing lotion as well. 

Let me know how it goes, I know I can’t wait to get better and have my skin looking shiny and fresh once again.

Coola liplux Peppermit+Vanilla-I simply love this lip balm, it is so soft and hydrating.  It also smells and tastes delicious + you know it is only made from the best organic ingredients and protects your lips from the sun. http://www.coolasuncare.com

Woodsprite Organic body Bee Happy lip balm-This creamy little wonder of a lip balm seems as if it was made by hand right in your back yard.  It is made with organic nut, seed oils and natural beeswax, all packaged in a recyclable tube and cap. http://www.woodspritesoap.com

Burt’s Bees lip balm in a tin can-this one has been my favorite for a while.  I should note that I only like the one in the tin can and now it seems to be harder to find, unless it is included in a kit.  I love the fresh peppermint smell and texture.  You can also use it on dry patches of skin or scrapes. 

http://www.burtsbees.com

Nivea lip balm-spf 30 sun protection, Nivea had the genius idea of adding to their product variety and what a great idea it was.  I love their lip balms, they might not be 100& organic but I give them points for quality.

http://www.nivea.com

Fall is coming I know my skin will experience some dryness. I just found the perfect product to use, the Jurlique’s Love Balm.  The name itself just jumped at me, it means I will love myself and my skin. It comes in a little portable tin and can be used on pretty much anything.  Lips, elbows, hands, knees, feet, cuticles or inhale it for an exhilarating dose of a angerine boost.

Jurlique is an organic brand that uses farm grown natural ingredients.  Guess who else is a fan? Mariah Carey has used it on a set of a video and loved it. To find out more about Jurlique’s Love Balm go to http://www.jurlique.com

Aloe & Witch Hazel Hand Sanitizer from Burt’s Bees-100% natural and leaves your skin smooth.  The part that kills the germs?  A natural extract of alcohol & water from a Witch Hazel plant.  Burt’s Bees has never disappointed me with any of their products.

CleanWell hand sanitizeris natural and alcohol free.  The CleanWell family believes in using nature’s resources instead of harsh chemicals and toxins that go into making some hand sanitizers. I also really love the packaging and the fact that it is a spray. 

EO Organic hand sanitizer, uses organic alcohol,  lavender essential oils and aloe Vera to kill germs and moisturize hands.  EO also has sanitizing hand wipes that are made from wood pulp, making them biodegradable.  The blue bottle is so attractive I have to try it out.

Image skincare is part of their “Think Before You Pink” campaign.  They are endorsed by Breast Cancer Action for their commitment to making paraben-free products. During the month of October Image Skincare will donate a portion of their sales on OrMedic Balancing Anti-Oxidant Serum.  Make sure to support this cause so BCA can continue being one of the true educators on Breast Cancer.  A another great reason to love Image Skincare is the company’s efforts to make the world greener.  One of their green practices is to use soy ink on all printing of marketing materials. 

When reading up more on their products it seems that even mother nature could not do a better job at creating them.  Check out some of the appealing products they sell. http://imageskincare.com To find out more about BCA go to www.bcaction.org

Ageless the Max

Ageless Total pure hyaluronic acid

Vital C hydrating enzyme mask

Tinted solar defense organic spf 30

I PEEL 40% glycolic/retinol resurfacing solution

Miessence Organic Mascara – Pure Black 

Pure Ingredients & Gluten Free  

Among the ingredients you will find the nourishing jojoba oil, shea butter, organic beeswax & long lasting mineral pigments & organic aloe vera. To find out more about Miessence organic products go to http://www.miorganicproducts.com 

What it will do for you? Leaves you with thick & healthy lashes

Physicians Formula Organic wear 100% Natural Origin Mascara

Love this mascara.  As stated on the Physician’s Formula website it is 100% Free of harsh chemicals, Synthetic Preservatives, Parabens, clumping, smudging, flaking, fibers & dyes.  Best of all, the brush is 100% recyclable 

What it will do for you? Gives you a boost, volume and definition the natural way.  Go to http://www.physiciansformula.com for more

lavera Volume Mascara No. 1

With ingredients such as; organic Jojoba & Wild Rose Oils this pure hydrating mascara can be used even by the most sensitive eyes. It is easily rinsed off by a mild cleanser and since it is free of chemicals you can feel free to use those two coats

What it will do for you? Described by lavera as your personal assistant for tired looking eyes.  For more go to http://www.lavera.com

The campus will offers a great variety to the guests.  There is a the Omega Wellness Center, Sanctuary, Dining Hall, and the new Omega Center for Sustainable Living.  Guests that come back every year and new guests alike will enjoy a variety of teachings in yoga styles as well as other health and wellness activities.  These include; meditation, vegetarian cooking, tai chi and dance.

One of the great things about this not for profit organization is that they try to instill their mission of service into the conference and everything else they do.  Service is their number one concern.  Selflessness, kindness and peace is all part of the yoga lifestyle and its philosophy.  Conference guests will have to opportunity to take on the philosophy for their own and learn the value of public service.   They will have the opportunity to give blood, be part of a senior citizen pen pal program and letter writing to support soldiers who are overseas.

This conference brings some of the best and talented teachers of yoga. Omega will also plant a 10 trees for each individual that attends through the Through Trees for the Future organization. For more details go to http://www.eomega.org.

Keeping your brain fit means exercising your memory, constantly keeping yourself sharp and on schedule.  What many do not know is that what we eat effects our brain as much as the rest of the body.  If you are someone who likes to indulge in guilty pleasures at all times, most of the time without even realizing it, it might have tremendous effects on your brain.

I will not list the foods that are bad, all I will mention is;  sugar (even artificial sweeteners), meats rich in fat, junk food, trans fats, candy, soda, all the foods we basically love to adore, can make your brain function at a slower and more sluggish pace.  If you are feeling drained and not thinking as sharply as normally, take a moment to look at what you eat.  

What are some foods that keep the brain healthy?   These foods are rich in omega 3 fatty acids, amino acids, proteins, vitamin E, Vitamin B and calcium.  They are proven to prevent dementia, and what could be the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s disease. 

My personal favorite-Fish

Fiber rich foods-this means oats, wheat, brown rice

Fruits and vegetables that have been grown naturally-especially blueberries and spinach

Lean or organic meats

Nuts-not only good for the brain but also have been known to help prevent certain cancers (these include; almonds, walnuts, flax seeds, etc.)

Next time you reach for that candy bar or soda, unless it is a certain emergency, rethink it.

I have a confession.  As much as I aspire to be as healthy as possible, lately exercise just seems to be out of my vocabulary.  When every day life and stress set in, the result ends up being the lack of motivation for any other activity. I have had no motivation to to do one of my favorite things, yoga.  I feel guilty because not only do I know it is very unhealthy to sit around at the office and home stressing over things but I also know that I have that ability to look the best that I can.  Exercise releases natural chemicals (endorphins) and it just trickles down from there.  The common fact is when you look good, you also feel good. I want to make some key points about yoga to motivate myself and anyone else out there who is going through the same thing.

Starting your day or ending your day with yoga will give more more energy.  This routine will stop you from sleeping late, or staying up late and as a result will help you start feeling better and more importantly not depressed or tired. 

Yoga is detoxifying, not only physically but also mentally.  People who have problems with anger management or with bottling up their anger yoga is an excellent way to release that. It gives you the ability to dissipate those negative feelings and watch them vanish.

Yoga has the ability to put you in a zen like state.  When done right and with the combination of meditation you will feel completely relaxed and care free. Well at least for the time being, however afterwards you might feel that problem you had is not as big as you originally imagined.

Yoga tones you, it is one of the best exercises to do to tone your body.  If you prefer yoga is offered with the combination of pilates.  Yoga is excellent for people who cannot do vigorous exercise and the results are just as amazing.  All this will result in you glowing and looking so great that bathing suit is sure to fit like it was meant to in the first place. You might not look like Christy Turlington but you will look like a better beautiful you. 

Are you motivated yet?

My young life experience has taught me that when you start getting a negative attitude or feel down because of a situation the most important thing to tell yourself is that we are not here forever.  Nothing is worth your health and the health of your loved ones.  Every day you spend with them, even if it ends up being a bad day, is one to be cherished. 

One way to keep that positive outlook is by simply taking a deep breath, holding your head up high and smile.  Smile, even if you are hurting inside, because a smile or a laugh is an instant mood lifter. 

Only do positive actions.  Every reaction you have to a daily problem or even a happy moment can be approached with a happy or pleasant attitude.  If you tell yourself it is not a big deal, it won’t be.  If you obsess about it, it will consume you. 

Writing is a great way to express yourself and your emotions on paper.  Even if you think you are not a great writer, the content does not matter.  What matters is that you relieved yourself of those negative thoughts.  This is especially great for people who have a hard time expressing themselves. 

I wish I had the right formula for positive thinking, but all we can do is give it a try.  Some people are naturally positive and I believe a lot of it has to do with their upbringing. 

So if you are feeling down on yourself and want to go the negative route, try to fool your mind and see how it feels for a change.  Eventually you will start believing in a more positive attitude whose outlook on life feels a lot better.

Those pesky breakouts just happen to appear around that time of the month, you are tired, bloated and there seems to be a conspiracy happening against you.  This is the perfect time to take an hour out of the day for yourself only.  What are you favorite snacks, berries, yogurt, veggies?  All usable for a homemade facial mask, not to mention yummy.  I have dug up and tested the easiest of the easy.  The yogurt & cucumber facial mask did it for me.  You can combine the yogurt and honey only, or yogurt and cucumbers only.  I should mention that yogurt has  wonderful effects on dry skin as well. 

What you will need

YOGURT & CUCUMBER FACIAL MASK

plain yogurt (let it chill in the refrigerator for a refreshing feeling)

cucumbers (chop them up into small pieces or slice them up thin)

1/2 tea spoon of honey (not necessary)

The way you combine this mask is entirely up to you.  I used all ingredients, once with chopped up cucumbers and once sliced.  The sliced cucumbers can be used as a base for the yogurt and honey mix, simply place them on your face and relax.  Note that you should slice them up thin if you want them to stay in place. 

What a better way to get in shape and not having to feel bad about leaving your baby with a babysitter.  There are other ways to excercise with your baby as well.  The good old run with your carriage idea has been around for a long time now. If running is not your thing, a fast pasted walk will do.  As long as you get out there and allow yourself to have the freedom of taking charge of your body again.  I would personally prefer yoga, which has been offered at certain gyms as well.

I have never been to one of the pilates classes, however new mommies all over seem to enjoy it.  The only dilemma I can forsee is the baby’s unwilliness to participate. This excellent idea is now offered at the New York Sportsclub.  Contact your local gym to find out if they provide this class in your area.  Happy exercising.

The research seems to be very fuzzy and tangled and makes a person think. What is the truth in most health studies?

The hard fact that too much alcohol can do some serious damage is more than real.  I have always believed in these simple and wise words “Everything with moderation” In mine and probably in most people’s opinion, it all depending on your individual health and tolerance. Medical research can be extremely valuable however as people are individuals, so are their lifestyles.

In the mean time I find the health of some European countries very fascinating. Mediterranean countries have been drinking wine for centuries. Could it be the wine, could it be the air, the food or the work ethic? Sometimes all you can do is the best you can and treat your body the way you treat any other precious object in your life. Remember that delicate piece of jewelry or that fancy car you like to pamper so much. Now transfer some of that focus on yourself and the results will tell you all you need to know.

I will personally be having that glass of red wine tonight.  Did I mention it helps to improve your stress level?

Sometimes a girl needs to spa, even when she is no where near a spa.  When I feel the stress accumulating and my skin suffers as a result I know I need some time for me and myself.  A stressed looking forehead and a frown are never attractive. The only way I know how to fix this is with a hot bubble bath and a refreshing facial mask.  This is exactly what I did last night.  What facial mask did I use?

It is said that Malaysian women have the best skin there is.  The great skin enthusiast I am, I wanted to know their secret to flawless skin.  It just so happens Biotropics, Inc. was kind enough to provide me with an answer.  Their RAMUAN SPA products are reflective of the traditional health and beauty in the Malaysian culture.  I specifically used their Relaxing Face Mask, which is meant to nourish and revitalize the skin. 

The relaxing face mask is very light on product and is disposable, which means there is no unpleasant goo. I immediately felt my skin being conditioned and the herbal feel and health of the mask is exactly what I needed.  The treatment used is made from natural fruit and seed extracts, as well as moisturizers and soothing agents.  The Tongkat Ali extract used in this mask is especially known and treasured for its legendary revitalizing effects. 

I felt refreshed and most definitely relaxed, my skin even tingled afterwards.  In my opinion the incorporating of traditional regiments and ancient secrets into spa products is holistic wisdom at its best.  The wonderful results will speak for themselves. 

To learn more and explore the secrets of Malaysian beauty, as well as buy Ramuan Health & Spa products go to http://ramuanspa.com.  For all the great skin seeking enthusiasts, as of June 2009 you can also find their products at your local GNC stores.

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If you have an older parent to take care of, Alzheimer’s is a realistic worry.  Alzheimer is a progressive and eventually fatal brain disease that effects millions of people. I have recently attended an Alzheimer’s benefit and learned exactly what the disease is and the ways you can help to prevent it.  If you are worried about your parent and feel they might be in the beginning stages, which is dementia, the main focus should be on exercising the brain.  This means doing activities with them such as; board games, cards, simply talking to them and asking them questions and of course proper diet.  Dementia already shows signs of memory loss and the intellectual ability that you know your parent to have.  If it interferes with their every day life, it is serious enough.

The saying you are what you eat most definitely makes more sense once you get older.  What we put into our bodies will reflect on the kind of health we will have later on.  Alzheimer’s can become very crippling for those who have it, for the families as well.  My grandmother is the person I normally go to for advice and inspiration.  Recently she has been focused less and extremely forgetful.  I can only image what the families of someone who has Alzheimer’s go through. It hurts to see your loved one not being themselves and miserable as result of it.

Blueberries have been my favorite snack this past weekend, I could not get enough of them.  It just so happens they are also my grandmother’s favorite.  Blueberries are proven to have positive effects on the memory, along with being helpful with the prevention of cancer.  Sure blueberries alone will not solve the problem, but combined with other preventative exercises, foods and medication the early stages of Alzheimer’s just might stop the disease from growing into a bigger problem.  There is no current cure for Alzheimer’s disease but prevention has been proven to help.  Exercise your brain and while you are at it sit down with a bowl of blueberries, it can only do great things for your health.  This is one healthy snack I eat willingly.

I have to admit I am not one to always pay attention to warnings, and that includes putting on sunscreen at all times.  These days however the sun has been stronger than usual, at least it seems that way to me.  Maybe my tolerance is not as high anymore.  If I stay in the hot sun longer than 10 minutes, the headache arrives and my skin starts to burn without notice, until it is way too late. 

To top this I have recently been given some disturbing information regarding the dangerous chemicals in sunscreens.  This is without mentioning all the reports out there about some sunscreens not doing the job at all.  So what is a girl to do? Even if a little bit of vitamin D is great for your health you should still use caution and sunscreen, but use it with care. Slathering yourself constantly with layers of sunscreen might result in chemical overload. Remember you skin absorbs whatever products you use and we should treat our skin like we treat the rest of the body.  Your best bet is to buy natural products that have been reviewed by a legit authority on cosmetics.

http://atwww.cosmeticsdatabase.com is an excellent website for finding out exactly what is in cosmetics and what detailed studies show.  They also suggest safe products.  If you plan on getting a lot of sun this summer and/or have little children at home, visit the website to gain more knowledge on the products you are using. 

Sunscreen brands I love

Soleo Organic Sunscreen

Sun Science Organic Daily Wear

Aubrey Organics Green Tea sunblock

A another grea idea on how to resist those UV rays is by wearing UV-resistant clothing.  http://www.patagonia.com offers a Sol Patrol collection. http://www.solartex.com is a one stop shop for all things related to sun gear.  This website has an amazing selection of children’s clothing, sunscreen and accessories. 

One option, which I personally like to try on occasion, is to use lotion bronzers or otherwise called fake tanning.  Yes, not always the prettiest option if you happen to take it overboard.  If you use natural and safe products I would say it is much better than exposing yourself to burns and cancer. Try Nature’s Gate Organics happy glow bronzer.

The safest of all is to resist staying in the sun for long periods of time, especially during the time of the day when sun is at its strongest.  Which is said to be around noon time.  In my opinion the sun is dangerous at any time, winter or summer. 

Lastly, people and companies like to throw around the terms UVA, UVB, and UVC.  If you are confused about what they mean, I aim to clear it up for you.  A few more lessons on tanning and sun protection will be coming your way very soon. 

Enjoy a spa-like and sun-healthy weekend!

What makes Tammy’s work so special is her long and experienced history, which has made her into the kind of expert you can trust.  Her personal commitment to leading a healthy lifestyle plays an important role in her providing the kind of celebrated treatments that she is known for.  What is her secret?  It all starts with personal care.  Tammy uses the arts and sciences of botany, aromatherapy, medical science and chemistry to create her natural creations. 

Besides creating her own line of products and the recent launch of the Tammy Fender travel kit, Tammy provides special services and training at the Breakers Palm Beach resort. The Spa at the Breakers is the place to go if you want to gain access to her holistic facials.  I believe it takes a special individual to put so much care into other’s gain of beauty and spiritual healing.  This is something Tammy Fender clearly excels in and Organic Envy loves the gifts and talents she chooses to share with others.

The Tammy Fender travel kit includes travel sized versions of her holistic products, all placed in a beautiful jewel-box case.

This past weekend I was visiting the beautiful upstate New York and helped my father plant his yearly pickles and tomatoes.  Tomatoes are my favorite.  Store bought tomatoes taste like nothing, yet every year I am amazed at the size and quality of home grown tomatoes.  It is such a huge difference from regular store bought tomatoes. They are juicy, red and have a real taste.  It takes me back to Europe every time.  I took some images of the planting process and will show an after once they grow. 

Anytime you can get your hands on them organically grown fruits and vegetables are such a gift to your health. Maybe it is time to start thinking about creating your own small garden? Besides organic foods being good for your body, I believe gardening itself is a sport.  It occupies your mind with a certain peace and allows you to see results of your handy work.  In today’s stressful society anytime you can get a peace of mind from every day stresses, I say grab it and make it your hobby.

So get out in the sun and get your hands dirty.

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Part of my typical morning routine is to read up on the latest and most times I prefer to read the New York Times online.  There are so many inspiring stories to draw from it gives me an extra boost for the day.  Dana Jennings blogs for the New York times health section, he specifically blogs about being diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer.  I know the subject is grim, but very well exists.  Sometimes inspirations come from places you would never expect and you just count your blessings to have your health.  Every day you wake up healthy and breathe there should be a certain appreciation for life. 

Dana writes in such a positive tone I could not help but share it here.  He has specifically written about running and reclaiming the ownership of your body throught exercise.  The process of getting better sometimes feels as if you have donated your body to science.  I have seen it in my own family.  I believe the only way to beat any sickness is by staying positive and by not dedicating your tears and stress to the grueling process of getting better.  Dana has promised himself to run the marathon on November 1st and believes in the words of Lance Armstrong.  During his own battle with testicular cancer he wrote “Exercising may be one of the best things you can do for yourself during and after your cancer treatment.” Dana describes the struggles one can experience when getting back into the routine of running again and obviously exercise is not always an option when you are in pain. 

After being sick for any period of time you can and should should start getting your body stronger, not just physically but also mentally.  The New York City marathon is not for everyone, but there are other options if you are not able to join in.  There is a lottery you have to enter to be able to run the NYC marathon and you should most definitely do it for yourself, not to prove anything to anyone else.  Walking is a great option if you are just starting out.  This goes for anyone, not just cancer survivors.  Getting back to exercising is not easy, but it is necessary in order to take control of your body again.  

Running can especially can be so freeing.  I can definitely see how Dana would feel empowered by running, especially for the Marathon.  I wish him and anyone who is or has suffered from cancer all the best,  he is an amazing inspiration.  To read his posts go to http://well.blogs.nytimes.com

These days it seems Eco Tourism is the most over used term in travel.  Everyone wants to be part of the green movement, and sadly sometimes it is just to make money.  Real Eco Tourism does not have to be about the glitz and glamour.  First you probably want to know, what is Eco Tourism anyway? It is defined as responsible travel to natural areas where the conservation of the environment is prevalent and improves the welfare of its locals and visitors alike.  This type of travel can also be included in; cultural tourism, sports adventures, hiking, green and sustainable travel, and many more terms.  Confusing, I know. 

With the help of former producers of MTV’s Real World and National Geographic Adventure my good friend Chris Abel has recently launched a pilot for a hiking show and it just might be the definition of Eco-tourism.  The show revolves around two experienced hikers, Chris and his partner Blaire Carson.  They hike and camp through various areas and discover what the nature and local areas have to offer.  I have to admit, as much as I love the nature hiking has never been in my vocabulary.  After going to their website and watching the first episode I was hooked.  I might even go as far as explore small hiking trips myself.  The show itself is not only educational but also very entertaining.  They make a perfect team and each brings something different to the show. The name of their project is Tales From the Trails and if you love hiking and nature, you have to check out their website and videos www.talesfromthetrail.org 

The hot tea season might be over on the East Coast, but it never gets old for me.  I love to drink tea as much as coffee, that might be as a result of my European upbringing. There is nothing better than sitting down with a cup of tea, made with honey and lemon.  It tastes delicious and it is so good for you too.  The question for me always is; how do you brew the perfect cup of tea without rushing?  It seems I am always in a hurry and a perfect tea is not exactly on my priority list.  One thing I do know that is that tea tastes much better when it is made with love, possibly by someone that loves you. 

To me herbal teas carry a certain mystery because the study of herbs has always interested me.  When I was a little girl in Europe I remember gathering herbs for our school, they were then weighed and sent away to be made into a product.  With the money the school received we went on field trips. I suppose the purpose of that was for everyone to pitch in.  It also never seemed strange to me to gather herbs for my mother, as a hobby she would make healing creams and teas out of them.  My mother used to have a large book of herbs and show us the right ones to pick up.  My favorite tea is chamomile.  Not only is it calming but it is perfect for clearing up your nasal passages.  You steam the chamomiles in a large pot and put a blanket over yourself as you inhale the steam.  I can almost bet this will be great for your skin as well. 

So how do you brew that perfect cup of tea? 

First make sure you use fresh and cold water.  Since New York does not always have the purest water I prefer to purify it. 

Depending on the type of tea you are making the water should be used at boil or just right before it starts to boil.  Do not let the water keep boiling because it will lose too much oxygen resulting in a flat tasting tea.  For dark teas use boiling water, for white teas use water just before it starts to boil.

For steeping it is always best if you use the time recommended on the package, same goes for lose leaf teas.  Do not let them sit and infuse too much. 

The taste complitely depends on the individual so keep experimenting with different tastes and you decide what is best for you. 

Enjoy and let me know about your tea experience.

1 ripe banana

1 tablespoon of organic (regular is fine) honey

1 lemon

Cut up the banana and mix it with honey until you  get a good paste going

Add a few drops of lemon

Use it right away as it starts to get gooey and dark after a while

Apply it to your face for about 15 minutes 

Wash it off with a warm or cool washcloth 

One thing I would keep in mind is that this mask does not  look attractive at all while on the face :  )

Every day I aim to learn something new. The lesson in that is to simply find out new things and live my life outside of the comfort zone as much as possible. At times my work allows me to attend seminars or workshops related to the mental health field.  I am not always excited about going, but one name pops and makes it all better.  That name is Anne Quinn.  

Today I attended one such seminar, in Goshen NY, by Anne called Let Go and Live. As usual I was in awe of how much she hit on points that have a lot to do with my life and the life of the other attendants.  She is a brilliant speaker and has the power to make people feel really comfortable. Soon they start revealing their struggles and life stories with tears in their eyes. I will be interviewing her in the near future and I am very lucky that she agreed to this interview as she is a well sough after consultant.  I hope everyone will be as excited as me about this interview as it has a lot to do with an important subject: Life.  To find out more about Anne E. Quinn go to her website http://www.anneliz.com

Goshen is a great city, full of history and natural beauty. Speaking of learning and discovering.  On my way from the seminar I noticed an interesting boutique set in an old farm house, called the Four Winds Boutique.  I knew as soon as I walked in that I would not be disappointed.  This is where sustainable and recycling really happens.  The Vintage dresses from the 20s, clutches only flappers could adore and items that screamed history, they were all there.  New items, such as jewlery, were on display as well. I immediately noticed a basket of beauty products.  Since I was upstate and basically in a farm house I immediately knew they were organic and made individually with love.  

The soaps, scrubs, oils and incense are all made from herbs and other natural ingredients personally grown in ‘Two Crows Cottage” Gardens.  They are exclusively made by Nina of Happy Herbs Soap in Burlingham, NY.  What I love the most about her natural products is that she is locally known to work in the most, sanitary, stress-free and happy conditions, which means the end result reflects in the product.  What you put into the product is what you will get out of it.  Nina’s products are sold in local shops and farmermarkets.  You can find them in the Goshen Farmersmarket, The “Secret Garden Florist” in Walden, “1846 House Soaps” in Walker Valley and “The Four Winds Boutique” in New Hampton.  The summer is a perfect time to venture out on a road trip to the country and discover something new and unique no one else has.

I spend some time working for a mental health rehabilitation organization and I have come to understand a lot more about the individual struggle to overcome this problem.  Even if you do not have a diagnosed condition, sadness and anxiety happens to everyone.  Being sad and being depressed are not the same thing, they do however have a few things in common.  That is the overcoming feeling of being down, low self-esteem, being less sociable and negative thinking.  Whatever the cause of your stress, it effects the relationship you have with people around you.

We all know humans need to fulfill a certain hierarchy of needs, even if basic needs are the most important to start off with the higher needs are just as important.  In today’s times and economy not everyone’s basic needs are being met, those include; food, shelter, clothing, etc.  Not having or having a lack of those will most definitely cause major stress, anxiety, depression or just the feeling of sadness.

So how do you cope and prevent your problem or disorder from getting worse? 

Even though I don’t always live by it myself, I am a firm believer in positive thinking.  Your thought process can alter your attitude and eventually the way you feel.  You can trick your brain to think and feel good.  Remember the good things in your life instead of focusing on the bad.  Negative thinking can make you and keep you sick if you let it.

Get a new hobby or renew an old one.  What is your favorite activity?  Is there something you always wanted to try?  Maybe you want to accomplish a goal but cannot get there professionally just yet?  Well no one is stopping you from doing those things just for yourself, even if you do not share them with the whole world.  Immerse yourself in that activity that you love and you will realize it can be extremely therapeutic.  For example, if you like to exercise or write, do those things more often and with a full force.  It just so happens that exercise and writing are both proven to help with psychiatric disorders or with improving your mood in general.

Strive to help others and in turn help yourself.  If volunteering is not your thing there are other ways to help others.  A simple smile or a caring word can and probably will make someone’s day.  The feeling of making a another person feel good will help to improve your attitude towards life.

A new hobby or helping others leads to having a social life.  It is important to humans to interact in order to be happy and feel fulfilled.  This is not always easy and I personally like to trust the people I let in my life but it is important to try.

Lastly, make sure to take care of your body.  It is just as important as your mental health.  When you look good you will also feel good.  Part of this is getting enough rest and eating foods that do not alter your mood.  Keep a way from lots of sugar and greese.

You will have good days and bad days, but taking charge of certain aspects of your life will help you start to improve your moods and condition.

Celebrate Mental Health month by improving your own health and by caring about those around you.

Sphatika’s special spa experience focuses on the individual’s natural healing ability.  This includes a sauna, a sleep spa treatment, full facial regime and a very caring massage therapist.  You will walk out feeling replenished and luxuriously rested.  Sphatika works to makes sure your body reflects inner radiance and health.  They have worked for years toperfect their spa regimens in the most meticiously clean and inviting facilities. Today being healthy is more important than ever, that is the kind of wealth no one can take away from you.

In response to the swine flu effecting our region I wanted to share some tips on keeping your body immune and healthy.  For more information visit the World Health Organization www.who.int and the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov

Wash your hands frequently.  If you are not able to wash your hands carry a hand sanitizer with you.  At times it is easy to forget that we all come into contact with items other people have touched.  This can includes; money, gas pump, door knobs and even something as simple as a your restaurant fork.  It is also a good idea to avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth before you have washed or sanitized your hands. 

Eat healthy and take vitamins.  Eating foods that are rich in vitamins along with a good multi-vitamin can help strengthen your immune system.  Start your day with a healthy breakfast, this can also help you lose weight.  Keeping your body well hydrated is very important, drink at least eight glasses of water a day and drinking green tea has been proven to help with the immune system as well. 

Make sure to get plenty of sleep.  In today’s society we are busy busy, we seem to forget that our body needs rest in order to function properly.  Not only does good sleep can help you be more productive but it also prevents the chances of you becoming sick. 

Do not share personal items.  Sharing items such as drinks, towels, phones and toys spreads germs faster than you think.  Not only should you disinfect or discard some of these items after use but do not share them with others, in most cases this includes family members as well. If you are at a party avoid dips and food trays that do not contain utensils. 

Disinfect and clean your home.  This is especially important if you have a small child at home.  They are much more susceptible to being sickness, especially if their immune systems has been weakened.  We all know to clean our food the proper way before we eat it, but what about the items layout around your house.  Items such as, toys, computer keyboards, your garbage can, kitchen and bathroom sinks need to be cleaned or disinfected on a regular basis.  Use hot water and spray disinfectants to kill germs. 

Enjoy a beautiful and spa-like weekend!!

Yoga is especially great for people with certain heart problems that prevent them from doing vigorous exercise.  The feeling yoga can provide is absolutely refreshing as the exercise can accommodate to different levels of strength and endurance.  If you feel you are among those who have been doing a good share of exercising over the winter then yoga mixed with aerobics (power yoga) is right for you. The best part, you can make your exercise green by taking it outdoors.

While you are out there, a simple walk can be great exercise for beginners trying to break into their routine. Since the economy has not been playing out so well the idea of driving or taking public transportation to go exercise just seems silly.  If you gym or park is close enough for a walk or a bike ride it would be much more economical, not to mention greener, to go for it.

Food is a another big factor in the way we exercise.  Foods that are heavier will make us tired and less productive.  This does not mean you have to give up your favorite foods or eat less delicious desserts. It only means that you should try eating different types of foods. Spring always makes me a much happier person and it reflects in the activities as well as foods I eat. My favorite are berries with whipped cream for dessert or a snack.  Thinking in these terms especially helps when eating out, restaurants tend to have less healthier choices for dessert.  It is all about compromising.

The most common forms of yoga for a toned body and a peace of mind:

Hatha Yoga: is a basic form of yoga that is popularized in the US.  It incorporates all aspects of yoga:regulated breathing exercises, meditation and calm poses that slowly allow you to advance.

Birkham Yoga: incorporates fitness and muscle strength, this form of yoga is great for weight loss as it supposed to be practiced in a heated environment of  95-105 degrees.  This allows for flexibility, detoxification as well as prevention of injury.

Power Yoga: is a strength training as well as regulated breathing exercise.  This form of yoga combines aerobics with yoga poses through fast movements and no pausing between the poses.

When looking at the statistics of our environment and human health it is easy to see that not everything is being done to stop the potential harm to us and our planet.  A great example of this is an organization that has decided to take faith into their own hands.

Search for the Cause and Teens Turning Green started taking shape in 2002 when it was revealed that in Marin County breast cancer had reached an alarming high percentages.  When questions were asked as to why this is happening the answer was that there is not enough funding to find out.  It is well known by now that the potential causes of diseases are environmental toxins.  As a result of this Judi Shils has decided to start the Marin Cancer Project, now known as Search for the Cause.  Judi Shils was inspired by a group of local teens who wanted to do research of their own on toxic exposures and their connection to cancer and other health problems.  The group of teens grew fast into a force that became powerful enough to make change, not just locally, but globally as well.  New chapters were formed coast to coast influencing the way policies are made and making sure research is being done. 

Teens for Safe Cosmetics branched out in 2008 as a program of Search for the Cause.  It is a hand-selected cosmetics collection by teens and is sold in the Whole Foods Market.The concerned teens look at the factors of sustainability, safety as well as practicality.  The main concern of the teens were the harmful chemicals being put into our bodies, especially the ones that they personally used.  The goal to make a healthy and environmentally conscious product for teens has been a tremendous success.  I have no doubts it will continue to do well as more people are being educated on the subject of our environment.  A success story such as this one proves that no matter the size of our effort to make a change it is important to take the first steps. 

Today the Teens Turning Green organization helps teens and adults alike to pay attention to everything that effects us, from the food we eat to the fashion we wear.  They also provide the information needed on how to look for alternatives and living a greener lifestyle.  The teens started a huge change that effects the way many people live their lives and have a chance for a much healthier future. 

The Teens Turning Green website has a world of information on how teens can get involved in their local communities. One such project is being announced by Whole Foods for teens to turn their prom green.  To find out more go to http://www.teensturninggreen.org

I believe this place has to be the most perfect getway from every day stress and anxiety.  Once the doors close behind you, the street noise is gone and all of the sudden you are in Europe. The special spa experience allows for a wine discussion and education with your own sommelier and other guests waiting for their treatments.  Can you image a more relaxed social setting?

The other and even more brilliant idea Caudalie and other spas around the world have had for some time now is incorporating wine into skincare.  If you decide to stay in one of their country locations you practically pick the ingredients for your treatment from the backyard. Now that is organic.  To find out more about their other locations and products go to http://caudalie-usa.com.  

Draining Organic Herbal Teas                                                         Crushed Cabernet Scrub

Til Soon!

Mary Beth

According to Jones, key to the success of  “Healthy Rewards” is the strategy of “carrot dangling” (carrots can be anything from exotic travel to exercise equipment to big screen TVs). “Dangle a carrot in front of your employees and they are likely to do what needs to be done to get that carrot.”  In order to claim their carrots, employees participate in various contests and competitions related to exercise, weight loss, and smoking cessation.  ”One of our most popular group events  is a team walking competition where we provide pedometers that record the number of steps taken by each team member and the entire team. These totals are entered daily into a computer database, and the number of steps can be tracked online throughout the competition,” Jones says.  Carrots are subsequently awarded to the winning team.

Motivational tools for participants include access to a personalized website that monitors their physical activity and wellness goals and provides customized graphs to view their progress. They can also compare their progress with department and company averages  in fitness training and/or weight loss. The websites may also be customized to include featured prizes, wellness tips, and health resources.

Jones emphasizes that implementation of a Healthy Rewards program not only has a positive impact on the wellness of  the workforce but also boosts ROI and the health of a company’s bottom line. For additional information contact KJones@fraserhoyt.com; company website: www.fraserhoyt.com.

For feeding the body and the skin—the pumpkin is a nutritional powerhouse—rich in the antioxidants vitamins C and B-complex, beta-carotene, as well as other cancer-fighting carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin. It’s a powerful antioxidant treatment that brightens and rejuvenates the skin as combating oxidative, free-radical damage. Pumpkin can help promote collagen growth and improve the skin’s elasticity. It will help other ingredients penetrate more deeply into the skin, boosting the intensity of other products. Pumpkin contains the highest concentration of salicylic acid of any plant, which provides the potent skin-smoothing and pore-clearing action. It exfoliates and draws impurities out of the skin while introducing vitamins, enzymes, and nutrition. It’s broad range in that it’s an excellent treatment for normal to dry, dehydrated, and acne skin types.

As seasonally inspired spa treatments go, a pumpkin facial treatment is such the emotionally engaging experience. With it, you not only take a walk down memory lane but also improve your skin’s texture and appearance.

Oh, and don’t forget to catch It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!

‘Til Soon!

Mary Beth