Hold on for those important posts and enjoy your weekend in the most relaxing way possible. I am starting mine off with a bath and a walk with my boy yorkie.

Fresh starts are important, here are my personal New Year Resolutions for 2010:

-To spend more time with my loved ones and work on my relationships. I hope to become closer with those who have reached out to me in 2009.

-To take even better care of my health, focusing on the physical and the mental aspects of my well being.

-To make and accomplish goals that not only benefit me but benefit others around me, making for a better future that is not completely selfish.

What resolutions have you made?

Even after the conference has ended, there is still the feeling that not enough is being done to educate the public about the realities of our problems.  There are many people who do not believe in the problems we are facing and more importantly our future generations will face. Do your research and find out what you can do to help in your local community, just remember to not force others to do the same. It would be nice to know everyone cares as much as you however your beliefs and lifestyle does not have to be agreeable with others around you. Make a resolution to do your part for the environment in 2010.

If you prefer you can bake the apples or cook and stir in a simple sauce. In an downward economy it is the simple things that provide us with the biggest smile.

Simply stir in a pan

water

honey

1/2 teaspoon of sugar

peel & cut apples into wedges

cinnamon

end with caramel if you wish

Images by me

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.

It takes 10-20 years for a plastic bag to break down, imagine all the homes and big/small offices out there changing every single bag every day.  That is a lot of plastic.  Let’s just make mountains out of them.  I know I am doing my part as much as I can and I hope other people wake up and stop to think before they throw out anything that is still useful or can be used by others.  Oh and stop giving me crazy looks when I want to keep my plastic bag for longer than a day.

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!

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.

When renting or buying any forward thinking individual will want to consider a home that is eco conscious.  A place like NYC has everything, if you look for it, you will most likely find it.  A green real estate market is no different. Today individuals have the option to go with a regular real estate broker or an eco one.  Which one would you chose?

Going with a eco broker obvioustly ensures you will get what you want without having to search for it yourself.  They consider everything, from how the building functions to the refrigerator you will use.  Simple details, such as the paint you use on your walls, can say you care about yourself and the environment.  Reducing your individual carbon footprint does not have to be difficult. All it takes is considering the type of products you use, how to reduce the energy used in your household making sure you do not take uneccesary trips to buy things you do not need in the first place.  

I know people in NYC tend to lead hectic lives and certain things just do not fit in the schedule.  Eco brokers can take the guess work out of reducing your carbon footprint so you can concentrate on just living your life the healthier way. 

NY 1 calls eco brokers an emerging trend, well in that case I hope it becomes a staple and a must very soon.  If you know of any good eco brokers feel free to post them here.

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.

The company was started in 2006 and their dream to change a village with a simple bag carries with their mission.  Lots of pures=lots of jobs 

Take a look at these super cute purses, now that is a real fashions statement that will make you feel warm inside.  http://www.thetagbag.com

Manhattan’s iconic High Line has not been running since 1980, now its elevated structure serves an entirely new purpose. It has been rebuilt into a mile long park that stretches from the Meatpacking District to west 34th street. I have been meaning to visit the park since it opened and finally on a beautiful day I ventured out to see it for myself.  The structure was originally built in the 1930s in the middle of 10th avenue. It was eventually being elevated as a result of dangerous conditions, which has nicknamed 10th Avenue into “Death Avenue.” 

High Line is provides an entirely new experience to NYC residents and even tourists.  Plants and trees have been planted, signs that say “Keep it Wild” posted and benches have been placed there for your tanning pleasure.  The green space is a perfect example of creative and  eco minded individuals who see space and think to do something positive with it.  If you get a chance to be in this fashionable part of the city I recommend you take a moment to stop there and experience history.  On a good day, when there is not a crowd, the quiet atmosphere and the view promise to ease the stress and anxiety of your work day.

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. 

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?

Every Friday I look forward to a weekend of hopeful relaxation. This does not always happen, but that is the goal.  We all know the way you treat your body will reflect on your health and eventually take time away from your loved ones.  The realization that life is short and goes by so quickly only comes to mind when tragedy happens.  Cherish those short moments with your family this weekend and every opportunity you get.  Pay attention to what they are saying and what you can learn from them. This is a lesson I learned this week.

I wish everyone a wonderful and spa-like weekend!

What is a Mental Health Day?  It is most definitely not something you will see on your plan when you sign up working for a company.  That is because it is not provided.  It is up to each individual to asses if they need to take a Mental Health day.  I think we have all experienced that low down “depression” at one point or a another in our lives and when it hits you know you will be not be able to be productive at work. You are tired or the fatigue sets in and you might not be able to move even if you wanted to.

I do want to add that this is not just a day to take whenever you feel like it and without consideration for you employer.  If you have been an exemplary worker, always come in on time, do your work before deadline and you get along with your manager, then you are a good candidate for taking a Mental Health Day. For those that suffer from a mental health problem this is a dilemma because the quilt always sets in.  It is important to remember that this is not an excuse to be lazy but a day for replenishment and rest from what drags you down.  

How do you take this Mental Health Day? A Mental Health day is a day you take off work to do something you love, and this does not include any appointments, errands or house chores.  It is a day for you to unwind and take care of your body as well as mind.  Sometimes it can be difficult to see how our physical state can effect our mental state, the other way it is even worse.  There is a definite connection between your mental health and physical sickness, you just have to pay attention.  

What does everyone think about Mental Health day?  Do you believe it is something to consider if you feel you cannot function properly at work?

The concept of swap parties is nothing new.  Some have even created successful businesses around swapping and partying.  When it comes to the planet, your home and overall health, being a careful consumer and leaving unnecessary splurging behind is the greenest thing you can do.  I know what some of you are thinking.  Why would I want someone else’s junk?  Well swap parties do not have to resemble a flea market.  There are high-end ways to swap clothing and accessories that have be either gently worn or not worn at all.  Swap parties are about more than just swapping, it is a lifestyle change.  Freeing yourself of the negative energy that some object you own possess is not only good for your closet, but also great for your mental health. 

Imagine all the things you have worn to special events with your ex, or all the gifts he has given you? Sure they might be beautiful but they also keep reminding you of that failed relationship.  Get rid of it, it is not worth it.  You can trade it for something completely different, that is resembling your life today, not the life you had one or five years ego. 

If you cannot make it to a swap party or there are none near you, there are plenty of websites doing giant swap parties online.  Selling your unwanted items on E-bay was just the beginning. 

The greatest thing you can probably do is have a swap party of your own.  Include all your stylish friends, serve cocktails and make the earth a greener place to live.  Girls all over the world are doing it.  Their stories are always inspiring.  The swapping usually begins as a result of a need. Whether it is mental, social or the need for a new wardrobe.  It is one way to make yourself feel good about helping the planet as well as yourself. 

A another great way to be closet green is by checking your grandmother’s closet.  Yes your grandmother.  A true Eco fashionistas or any real fashionista for that matter would not mind going vintage.  Famous fashion stylists visit vintage stores every day.  You will love discovering how your grandmother used to dress, you might just find out she used to be a glamour diva.  This is a great way to bond with your grandmother and find out more about her and your family history. We all know fashion goes in circles, so go thought that closet and jewelry box.  The classy pieces you find will be worth so much more than the superficial store bought items.  Just make sure you have permission.

Look up a swap party near you and you might be surprised how much fun and goodies you can acquire.  I am thinking of having one of my own.  Happy Swapping!

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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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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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.

How often do you buy a new toy for your pet and throw out the old one?  The obvious answer would be if it is dirty or too chewed up it should probably go.  Well what if the toy looks fine and like new but at a closer look you notice the different ypes of hazards it can create.  

I am always on a search for a safe toy for my Yorkie and when walking into a dog store they seem to be rare.  Since he is very little I have to be that much more careful and picky. A lot of times the stuffed toys have little details that hang off and he can choke on, not to mention the fluffy material he likes to rip of and eat.  What about rubber toys? Once punctured with his teeth the little pieces of rubber start coming off, and of course I worry he will eat them. All of this without mentioning the materials and dyes they use to make the toys in the first place.  With bigger breeds certain toys are excellent, but I feel as if the little breeds have to be watched closer when playing with their toys.  

As I continue to do more research on advanced Eco friendly and dog friendly toys I will post more information. After little to no digging you can find earth friendly dog toys online. The toys are organically soft and non-toxic, not to mention cute. Once again organic cotton is important to look into for a peace of mind.  Smart purchases are the best you can ever make. Your best friend will love you for it.

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!!

I sincerely hope the Organic Spa Magazine readers, as well as new visitors, join us online and keep coming back for more.  There will not be a subject untouched in the world of green spa living.  Allow us to become your daily escape and a spa from every day stresses.  Look around our categories and pages for your daily dose of subjects and resources on spas, health, fashion, beauty, cooking, fitness, the environment and anything else your life touches.  We appreciate our readers and their feedback so feel free to get a fabulous conversation going. xoxo

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.

and Leonardo DiCaprio

Being conscious of your environment and health is a wonderful, however there are those who seem to think you have to be absolutely perfect in order to be considered green. Living a green lifestyle and being an environmentally conscious citizen is sometimes a difficult task.  The vast products and information out there are not always true or accurate.

By doing your part for the environment and your health in the best way that you know how or are capable of is commendable enough. There is always the future and further education to help us become better and excel at anything we chose to do, even at living a greener and more organic lifestyle.

In the first years of my life I grew up in a beautiful Eastern European country and my attachment to the nature has always stayed with me. One of my favorite things to do as a little girl was to play in the beautiful forest near our house.  Today is the best day to attempt that walk in the nature and a better day than any to go out there and celebrate our amazing Earth in the best way that you know how. If you plan on going out on the town today, make sure to toast to Earth Day.  Happy Earth Day Everyone!!!

Many people who seek a peace of mind at times seek to forget about a tragic event, a stressful point in their lives, a lingering fear or perhaps a bad habit. These are the parts of our brain that effect us and have the ability to mold us into who we are today.  This is without mentioning the effects stressful memories have on our aging process.

According to an article in the New York Times a team of researchers, led by Dr. Todd C. Sacktor, have been developing a drug that has the abilities to erase and edit specific memories.  This news struck me as interesting because it is personal and specific to individuals.  I know sometimes I wish I could forget about a certain event in my life and think I could lead a much happier life without that memory.

If this drug is used imagine how it could alter people’s lives.  There are obvious moral issues that arise with a drug as specific as this. On the other side you can also image how this drug could be reversed and allow us to retain our memories longer.  This could be exactly what some might need in order to finally accomplish that peace of mind, however do we really want to erase a part of us that possibly molds who we are?

That is something to think about. To find out more about Dr. Sacktor’s work read the article here: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/06/health/research/06brain.html

Whoever said the organic lifestyle is too much work or not fabulous enough is so wrong. Green being the movement of our future is spreading especially fast now that the economy is forcing us to reevaluate the way we live. To understand how to live green is to trace our every day actions. As more and more companies are katching onto the trend of organic living the gap between the granola and the glamorous is becoming smaller and smaller. I have a feeling the Organic Spa Magazine has know this for quite some time now.   

So how do you live a green life without sacrificing the superficial you? Externally speaking of course. It is easier than you think.  I call it Spring cleaning.  We have all done it and even swear by its therapeutic effects.  Whether Spring cleaning is actual work for you, or it just means cleaning out the mental clutter do it in a way that is good for your health, the environment and your wallet. The green lifestyle is not something you will start living immediately but with small steps towards changing your the old habits it is possible and necessary.  In a future post I will discuss the different approaches towards living a greener and therefore a healthier lifestyle.  Best of all you can still remain being you, only better.  

I welcome readers to share their curious neighbor stories. (Hopefully, Tammy won’t put a curse on me for that…)