As the tumultuous reports continue to surface surrounding contaminated fruits and vegetables in super markets, many consumers and homeowners are taking initiative and beginning to start their own organic garden. Planting and maintaining an organic garden can be a rewarding, as well a delicious experience.

Beginning a garden can be subdivided into three main branches. Creating the ideal conditions for plants to grow, minimizing the impact of pests and disease, and reducing the amount of human necessity.

Before purchasing soil, seeds, or tools, one should have a clear plan of intent. Will this garden be used to grow herbs, fruits, vegetables, or flowers? It is also important to understand the initial work involved and the length of time needed before you can harvest, pluck and eat what you sow.

Once an understanding of what you wish to grow has been achieved, creating a fertile site should be the next move. Keeping one's goals in mind, one should begin surveying the yard for areas with properly drained soil, and an area which receives at least six to eights hours of sunlight. Once a site has been chosen catering to one's agricultural needs, one should begin creating a bed and planting seeds.

One should create a garden shaped and sized according to the plants he or she wishes to grow. Understand how much space each plant requires in order to optimize the harvest. Creating an outline with rope, a garden hose, or stakes, can allow one to step back and reflect on the structure of the garden.

Critical to a plants health is the quality of the soil. Soil should be clear of any large rocks or debris, which can hinder the growth of seedlings. Adding organic compost can radically improve the health of one's garden. When selecting plants, it is important to find nurseries that specialize in organic plants. Many conventional stores use pesticides to yield large numbers of young plants. In addition, carefully examine young plants before purchasing. It is extremely important to look for signs of disease or insect infestation, which can cause a literal plague in a homeowner's garden. When embedding plants, give the bed at least a three-inch layer of organic mulch. This will retain water and provide supplemental nutrients for the plants.

Finally, it is important to stay organized with your plants. Labeling, mapping, and surveillance, is critical if one expects to yield crops. It is important to know how much water each plant requires, as well as how long each plant may take before producing ripened vegetables or fruits. 

Although initially it may seem to be a complex endeavor, harvesting ones own organic fruits, vegetables, and herbs can save hundreds of dollars and provide healthy and nutritious food for an entire family.

For more tips and articles on landscaping, click here.

Sources:

1. organicgardening.about.com

2. Howto.com/ "How to "Organic Horticulture"

Image:

1. thedailygreen.com

• Mulching deters weed growth by blocking the sun source and keeping weed seeds from germinating.
• Mulching cuts down on time spent watering the garden or lawn by in increasing the soils ability to retain water.
• Mulch helps the soil maintain a consistent temperature, allowing the soil to maintain heat in the cools seasons and cooling it down in the warm seasons.
• Mulch helps prevent soil compaction from rain.
• Mulch helps prevent against soils erosion.

Hey there, beautiful people! We are here with a brand new contest for you guys where you can win up to a $500 gift certificate from Naturelle d'Argan, France's no. 1 Argan skincare line (lotions, scrubs, shower gels, soaps and more...). All their products contain 100% pure and organic Argan Oil ethically sourced from the Argan groves of Southern Morocco. Argan Oil is known for its nourishing and healing properties and is the latest buzz in the beauty industry. Follow the steps below to register.

1. You must be the owner of a blog/website/YouTube channel.
2. Leave a comment on this post as to which product you would like to try from Naturelle d'Argan
3. Like EcoHomeResource on Facebook - facebook.com/EcoHomeResource 
4. Like Naturelle d'Argan on Facebook - facebook.com/Naturelle-d-Argan 
5. We will send you a sample to try out from Naturelle d' Argan.
6. All you have to do is write a review OR create a YouTube video.
7. We will pick 5 winners. The 1st place winner will receive a $500 gift certificate, 2nd and 3rd places will receive $200 gift certificates and 4th and 5th places will receive $50 gift certificates to use on any product from Naturelle d'Argan.

So HURRY and register, the first 50 participants get preference!

The benefits of Argan oil do not remain a secret anymore and have been causing much stir in the beauty industry. Today, I will be reviewing a few products from Naturelle d'Argan and Naturelle d'Oreint, two leading French organic cosmetic brands which use pure Argan oil in their beauty products.

I was provided with the following samples;

- 100% Pure Organic Argan Oil Elixir by Naturelle d'Argan

- Jasmine Hand Cream by Naturelle d'Orient

- Comfort Daily Cream by Naturelle d'Orient and 

- Regenerating Balm by Naturelle d'Orient

Let me start with a bit of history and benefits of Argan oil. Traditionally used in the Moroccan pharmacopeia for its medicinal properties, Argan oil plays a major role in the barrier function of the epidermis (the upper layer of the skin) which it nourishes, protects and moisturizes. Moroccan women have been using Argan oil for centuries for their skin, hair and nails! The oil is naturally rich in anti-oxidants which helps to combat signs of premature aging and sagging of skin.

It's been about two weeks since I have been using the Argan Oil Elixir (which is the 100% pure, deodorized Argan oil) and I really like it so far. The very first thing that impressed me was the packaging, the oil comes in a bottle with a pump making it easy to squirt out a few drops rather than having to pour it out into your palm only to find that you need to pour most of it back into the bottle! The second thing - the oil is completely odorless. 

The oil can be used for your face, body and hair. I usually don't like the idea of applying oil directly on my face so I started with my body. It was absolutely non-sticky and I loved the way it made my skin feel - smooth and nourished. I used the product on my body after a shower instead of a regular moisturizer. I also used it as a deep conditioner for my hair, leaving the oil overnight and then washing it in the morning. Liked the result - my hair felt shiny and silky, no oily residue and no smell! 

Since I was impressed with the way it worked for my body and hair I decided to go for the face. I followed the instructions and applied a few drops to my face with a cotton pad at night after cleansing. And yes, I did love the result! My skin felt moisturized and hydrated next morning, no oily residue or stickiness. If you don't want to use only the oil you can mix in a few drops with your moisturizer and use it for your face. The good thing is that the oil is deodorized so there is no risk of the two products' fragrances being mixed together. I would recommend using this product overnight for deep conditioning.

The Jasmine Hand Cream is very moisturizing. Loved the sweet yet subtle smell of jasmine! Ideal for using during the winter months to heal chapped hands. Once again, a little bit goes a long way in leaving your hands hydrated. A product that must be in your handbag!

The Comfort Daily Cream is light and non greasy in texture so I would recommend it for using during the day. It has the goodness of a mixture of oils (Argan, Olive, Macadamia Nut, Shea Butter) with a mild Orange Blossom scent.

The Regenerating Balm is a heavier cream and is best used at night. I would recommend this product for those with very dry or chapped skin.

Also worth mentioning is Naturelle d'Argan and Naturelle d'Orient's social and ethical commitment towards protecting the Argan groves of Southern Morocco (which by the way is a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and helping the women of the region who are the primary work force involved in the harvest of the fruit and consequently the oil.

Go ahead and try out their products, they have an entire range of organic cosmetics for face, body and hair care. All their products are Certified Organic by ECOCERT and Cosmebio. The prices are slightly steeper than other similar organic products in the market but here's the thing - you get what you pay for, superior quality and you don't need to use a lot to achieve the desired result. Even with everyday use, I think my Argan Oil Elixir bottle would last me at least 3 month!

And last but not the least we are going to offer the 100% Pure Organic Argan Oil Elixir by Naturelle d'Argan at a 50% discount on SaveGreenNow starting Feb 27th! Stay tuned for this deal and grab it while its hot!

One of the aspects of constructing a 'Green Home' is to pay particular attention to the fact that all materials used in its construction as well as beautification be natural. Looking for a suitable eco friendly paint for your 'Green Home' can be a tedious task with the many options available at your local hardware store. This article aims to provide you with some knowledge on the qualities of an eco paint and what are the types of eco paints available in the market today.

Before we understand the concept of an eco paint, let us understand as to why regular paints pose a hazard to our health and the environment.

Harmful effects of regular paints 

Indoor air pollution causes many side effects such as headaches, dizziness, asthma, cancer and heart diseases. A regular petroleum-based paint that you find in the market today emits VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) during painting, after the paint is dry and when the paint is removed. Hence, during its entire life cycle it continues to emit airborne chemicals which are potentially carcinogenic and contribute to indoor air pollution.

VOCs are emitted even from outdoor paints and cause pollutants to be released into the atmosphere. However the concentration of the airborne chemicals is substantially higher indoors than outdoors (up to 10 times higher, according to the EPA) due to improper ventilation which can ultimately lead to the health deterioration of the house inmates.

For more information on VOCs and indoor air quality, visit the EPA website.

Low VOC paints

Due to increased awareness on the potential hazards of air pollution due to VOCs and strict environmental regulations by authorities, most paint companies have started developing paints which emit little or no VOCs. This can be achieved by using water as a base instead of petroleum-based oil solvents. 

The EPA standard for a low VOC paint is the following - 250 g/L for latex paints and 380 g/L for oil based paints. If you want an even better paint with a lower VOC level, look for the Green Seal certification when buying paints. This will ensure that the maximum VOC content in the paint will not be more than 50 g/L. Most paints which meet this threshold are likely to have a VOC content of 10-25 g/L.

Zero VOC paints

Zero VOC paints are those which contain extremely low levels of VOCs - usually 2-5 g/L. Addition of biocides, fungicides and colorants can increase the VOC level by about 10 g/L. However, this is as good as it can get when we talk about a zero VOC paint today. If you want a truly zero VOC paint, you would have to go for a natural paint.

Some examples of companies offering low/zero VOC paints;

Benjamin Moore

Sherwin-Williams

Olympic

YOLO Colorhouse

Natural paints

Natural paints are made from natural ingredients such as water, plant oils and dyes, natural minerals such as clay, chalk and talcum, milk casein, bees' wax. earth, natural latex and mineral dyes. They are mostly manufactured by alternative paint companies and are more expensive and difficult to find. Most of the times you would have to order these paints online. But, by far these are safest paints for your health and the environment. They give out no offensive odors and do not cause any allergic reactions.

Let us take a look at some of the natural paints and their ingredients.

Clay paint

Clay paint is made up of earth-based minerals and uses water as a solvent. It is virtually odor free and also functions as an odor reducer which helps to neutralize the room climate. If you prefer an earthy look for your interiors, a clay paint is an excellent choice due to its available shades in tints of blue, white and orange. However, there are some downsides of using a clay paint;

• It does not come in a variety of colors.
• It can be used only for painting the indoors.
• Clay painted walls cannot be washed, scrubbed or wiped after being stained or dirtied  without causing any damage to the paint. The only solution is to touch-up the stained spots. Hence, it requires higher maintenance.
• It is more expensive than low/zero VOC paints.
• The problem of cleaning clay painted walls can be solved by using a low VOC sealer, but this would add up on the cost of using an already expensive clay paint.

Lime wash

Lime wash is a relatively inexpensive solution to the more traditional eco paints such as the clay paint. It is made from calcium rich limestone and has always been used to paint and protect historical buildings and monuments over the years. In recent times, it has gained popularity among homeowners due to its antique look and the fact that it is an eco friendly paint which can be used both indoors and outdoors. Lime wash is available in a wide range of colors which can be obtained by adding natural dyes to the paint mix. Some considerations while using lime wash are;

• It can be used only on non-smooth surfaces and is not as durable as regular paint.
• It acts as a fungicide due to its high pH level.
• Instead of washing the lime washed surface when it gets dirty, add another coat of paint.
• Lime wash can be used on porous surfaces such as brick, concrete and wood. It is unsuitable for drywall.
• Limestone is a corrosive material and can harm your eyes and skin. Hence, make sure to wear protective covering during application.
• You may need to apply several thin coats before you can get the lime wash coat that your want.

Milk paint

Milk paint, like lime wash has been in use since ancient times. It is made by mixing casein, a protein found in milk products with water, lime, natural fillers and pigments. It is also ideal for painting antique furniture. The paint comes in a water soluble powder form and must be used almost immediately (usually within a few days) to avoid forming clumps which prevent it from further use. As with most natural paints, milk paint is odorless during application and drying. Milk paint leaves brush or roller marks on textured surfaces as it does not flow out after application like a latex paint. For a smoother finish, it can be sanded. Also, milk paint can be used only for interiors and comes in a matte finish.

Visit Eartheasy for more information on low VOC and natural paints. Live and breathe easy!

Photo courtesy: tlc.howstufworks.com Sources: www.superpages.com/supertips/lime-wash-paint.html, http://www.realmilkpaint.com/, http://www.epa.gov/iaq/voc.html

Composting. A term you hear getting thrown around by eco-experts on a regular basis...but do you actually know what it means? By definition of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, compost is organic material that can be used as soil amendment or as a medium to grow plants. Mature compost looks like soil and smells like soil, but it's created by combining organic wastes, our wastes. This includes all your yard trimmings and food wastes. Combine these with a bulking agent, the USEPA suggests wood chips, and then let it be. The materials will breakdown over time and will stabilize into something nice and earthy, a type of soil that can be used for your garden and lawn. Natural composting goes on everyday, every month, and every year with the change of the seasons, a lot of it being nutrients that plants, animals and microorganisms survive off. Mature compost is slightly different, the pathogens in our waste require high heat temperatures to be destroyed, something natural decomposition wouldn't be able to do.

So, what can be composted?

• Apple cores, banana peels, watermelon rinds, and any other fruit or vegetable peelings
• Eggshells, (rinse and crush them first)
• Beverages
• Cardboard, (including toilet paper and paper towel rolls)
• Coffee grounds and filters
• Paper
• Dryer and vacuum lint
• Cotton rags
• Shredded leaves
• Tea bags
• Shredded newspaper
• Hair and fur
• Nut shells
• Sawdust and wood chips
• Wool rags
• Yard trimmings
• Houseplants (non-diseased)

Impressive right? To think that all of these wastes can be turned into a type of soil that can keep your flowers blooming and lawn green is something amazing. So now you know how to make a compost pile, but where do you store something like that? Some people are making small composts in plastic bins that you could pick up from Target, but the most eco-friendly way to go about it would probably be to build or your own. It will require a couple of 2x8 wood panels, a hammer and nails, but I'm no Home Depot expert so check www.stopwaste.org or www.compostguide.com for specific instructions. Now that you know what you can compost, here's a list of what you can't:

• Pet wastes or cat litter
• Chicken or fish bones
• Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
• Meat or fish (this includes scraps)
• Diseased plants
• Sod
• Weeds
• Coal, charcoal ash
• Fats, grease, lard, or oils
• Yard wastes with pesticides or chemicals

It's easy to get grossed out at the thought of having a pile of rotting waste near your home, but if you're putting in the right things and keeping out the wrong, the pile shouldn't be too bad, you can also cover it with a burlap cloth to partially hide it. When you add new wastes to the pile, mix it up a little (while wearing gloves of course). You'll then be managing your compost, helping to speed up the decomposing process a bit. This isn't necessary of course, and the pile can remain untouched and left to decompose on its own.

Composting is quite practical for those who have the space and for those who will actually make use of the finished product. It is ideal for yards, gardening and that sort of thing so if you're living in a three-story walk up in a concrete jungle, it may not suit your needs.

Source: USEPA: http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/composting/basic.htm

 http://www.stopwaste.org/home/index.asp?page=445#urban

 http://www.compostguide.com/

Essential oils are a natural and effective way to help manage stress, boost mood, fight off infection, and deal with pain. Essential Oils are pure aromatic plant extracts that are obtained from aromatic plant distillation. Essential Oils have a variety of applications that have positive effects on physical, psychological and emotional bodies of the individual. Inhalation, application to the skin, and internal ingestion of some oils are all methods of using essential oils.

Unlike most conventional medications that work as they are absorbed through the bloodstream, essential oils have an immediate impact on our many olfactory cells, which control the sense of smell. As we breathe in the fragrance from the oils, receptor cells are instantly stimulated, sending messages to the brain's sensitive limbic system. The limbic system is linked to certain parts of the brain that control a variety of vital functions, including breathing and circulation, memory, our emotions, as well as the endocrine system, which is essential for controlling hormone levels.  Inhaling of essential oils for physical and psychological benefit is called aromatherapy.

Messaging essential oils into the skin, using a hot or cold compress with essential oils or using them in a bath allows the oils to penetrate the skin's cells. Direct application to the skin of essential oils is most often used for pain management.  It's helpful to know the absorption rate when using oils for massage purposes to utilize their maximum effectiveness.

The chemistry of an essential oil is extremely complex, and a typical example of oil will contain an elaborate mixture of aromatic constituents such as alcohols, aldehydes, esters, ketones, lactones, phenols, terpenes and sesquiterpenes that combine to produce a unique set of therapeutic qualities.  This complex mixture of natural chemicals is what makes essential oils such effective healing agents; for example eucalyptus oil is refreshing and invigorating - plus it is a very powerful antiseptic agent. This means that essential oils can be used in a variety of ways to  promote physical and emotional health and well-being.

Essential oils possess a wide range of healing properties that can be used effectively to keep you in the best of health as well as looking good. These health-giving benefits include improving the complexion of your skin by stimulating cellular renewal, balancing roller-coaster emotions and fighting bacteria, fungi and other forms of infection. Essential oils have an almost endless list of therapeutic uses.

• Basil: Bronchitis, colds, fatigue, influenza, gout, insect repellent, sinusitis
• Bay Laurel: Amenorrhea, colds, influenza, tonsillitis
• Bergamot: Acne, anxiety, cold sores, depression, fatigue, halitosis, itching, oily skin, stress
• Black Pepper: Arthritis, constipation, fatigue, muscle cramps, poor circulation.  Check out Blood Circulation Support Wellness Oil
• Cedarwood: Acne, anxiety, arthritis, bronchitis, cystitis, dandruff, stress
• Clary Sage: Amenorrhea, anxiety, depression, dysmenorrhea, fatigue, sore throat, stress
• Cypress: Hemorrhoids, fatigue, oily skin, rheumatism
• Frankincense: Anxiety, asthma, bronchitis, depression, scars, stress, stretch marks
• Ginger: Arthritis, fatigue, nausea, sore muscles
• Grapefruit: Cellulitis, depression, fatigue, stress, water retention
• Helichrysum: Acne, burns, depression, dermatitis, fatigue, panic disorders, skin wounds
• Jasmine: Depression, dry skin, fatigue, labor pains, sensitive skin
• Lavender: Acne, anxiety, asthma, depression, irritability, labor pains, panic disorders, sprains, stress
• Lemon: Athlete's foot, colds, depression, fatigue, influenza, oily skin, varicose veins, warts.
• Mandarin: Anxiety, depression, irritability, stress
• Neroli: Anxiety, depression, irritability, panic disorders, stress
• Orange: Colds, depression, digestion, influenza, stress
• Patchouli: Acne, anxiety, fatigue, hair care, insect repellent, stress.  Check out Bug Be Gone Wellness Oil
• Peppermint: Asthma, fatigue, headaches, nausea, sinusitis
• Roman Chamomile: Allergies, anxiety, arthritis, depression, earaches, irritability, PMS, stress.  Check out Painful Joints Wellness Oil
• Rose: Anxiety, depression, eczema, menopause, panic disorders, stress.
• Rosemary: Arthritis, dandruff, fatigue, neuralgia, poor circulation
• Sandalwood: Anxiety, depression, fatigue, insomnia, irritability, oily skin, stress
• Vetiver: Acne, anxiety, arthritis, fatigue, stress
• Ylang Ylang: Depression, hypertension, stress

To learn even more about essential oils and their different applications and benefits check out one of these books: 

It's no secret that we live in a toxic world. The sad irony of the situation is that everyone is looking for the fountain of youth in a world where the only fountains we have access to are contaminated with chlorine, fluoride, and every other toxic chemical brew under the sun. The world's leading healers from every indigenous culture will tell you that the key to everlasting health is a three-limbed model of mental, spiritual, and physical nurturing, the end goal of which is ultimate balance. In western culture we call this anomaly disease prevention. The three-limbs correlate as the following 1) detoxification, 2) complete nutritional conciliation accompanied with regular physical exercise 3) total psychological and spiritual symbiosis via stress control, meditation, and body/mind vindication . 

This body, mind, and spiritual model for happiness is not new, in fact, it is one of the oldest models in religious, medical and psycho-spiritual history. The model is actually quite simplistic in juxtaposition to the desultory backdrop of an information-inundated, chemically ADD-invoking, homogenized complex modern world. Unfortunately, we westerners have the indelible talent of complicating almost everything that we deem worthy enough to methodically delve into.  We relish in the drama of materializing the value of wealth, and devaluing the presence of self-ingenuity and the commitment to persevere. We have traded the cavalier endeavors of study, commitment, and application to propagate the instantaneous ad-driven and propaganda-fueled google default for our professional and personal enrichment and education. Instant gratification and convenience has replaced hard work and perseverance. Something that was once as simple as reconnecting to nature and looking to our inner self for strength, has been replaced and diminished by looking externally for situational and material happiness.

The paradox of living in the age of information is that instead of being "tuned in" we have all now "checked out" in pursuit of a plastic and unreachable goal of perfection, that has, since birth been inserted and conditioned into our consumerist- washed brains: that the more money and power we have, the more fulfilled lives we will lead.  But to spare your eyes from glossing over and my hands from cramping, I will say this: happiness, however we may define it, is much closer than we think. 

And so the question should not be: how do we live in the real world in this crazy and overly-idealistic way? The question should be: How do we live in this crazy world in a real way? In my book, physical, mental, and spiritual vindication are completely and irrevocably intertwined. And the first step in that three-limbed equation is physical health. But the fact of the matter, is that most people do not consider their health until something has gone terribly awry; then it's the only thing they can think about.  Disease prevention, a top priority in many eastern cultures, is just now in the past two decades or so, becoming successfully integrated into our western medical culture. The symbiotic amalgamation of western and eastern medical philosophies will inevitably change the future of the medical frontier as we know it; the marriage of the two converging rather than diverging for a complementary, holistic approach to the human body's emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being.

According to the world's most famous and in-demand naturopathic doctors, including world-renowned Dr. Brian and Dr. Anna Maria Clement, it has been discovered (and scientifically proven) that there are basic steps we can take to boost our physical and mental health to a whole new level. Here are just a few simple and demonstrable habits we can pick up on a daily or weekly basis to become pro-active about claiming our health and longevity. We are empowered as human beings to take back control of our health, and therefore our happiness! Granted, a lot of these things are common sense, but in this day and age, I think it's not unfair to assume that a lot of our common sense has been thrown out with the bathwater.

1.     Water- Make sure to drink the equivalent of one-half your body weight in ounces per day, about 8-10 glasses of filtered or spring water. Be weary of bottled water, as BPA leaches into the drinking water when water heats up as it gets shipped. You can distill your own water, or drink natural spring water in glass bottles. If you can afford a water purification system, Wellness Water is the way to go.

2.     Nutrition- Get the earth back in your food chain. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables daily. Choose organic whenever possible. If you can, try to aim for 50% raw fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, grains, and greens in your diet. Raw foods are the most easily digestible, nutritionally whole and complete foods on the planet. If struggling with health issues, then a 100% raw organic vegan diet is recommended. Eat regular meals in a relaxed environment. 

      CHEW YOUR FOOD. Eat whole foods and avoid processed and refined "food". Include healthy fats (omega 3,6,9), which you can always supplement with Udo's oil (can find at any whole foods or natural foods store in the refrigerated supplement section).  Minimize intake of meat, dairy, refined sugar, caffeine, alcohol, and cooked starches, as these foods both offset the pH balance of your body (making it far too acidic), as well as severely clog the colon, which is essential to keep flowing smoothly for optimal health.

• Supplements- Be careful to steer clear of less-than reputable companies selling pharmaceutical-grade, chemically-laden brews that are completely non-absorbable and in some cases even dangerous. I implicitly trust the company LifeGive, as this brand of supplements is manufactured and distributed through Dr. Brian Clement's Hippocrates Health Institute (the world's preeminent leader in the field of natural and complementary health care and education since 1956).

• Wheatgrass- try to ingest 2oz of wheatgrass at least once a week, if not once or twice a day. If you are doing nothing else with your diet or lifestyle, just doing this once a day will completely turn your life around for the better. Visit here to read more about the incredible benefits of wheatgrass. 

• Enzymes- More and more, research is showing that enzymes are quite literally the missing link to solving the ever-present quagmire of anti-aging and reversing the aging process. Since we are born with only a certain number of enzymes at birth, the depletion of our bodies' enzyme reserves is believed to be the main cause of aging and disease. Without enzymes our bodies cannot properly digest food, combat illness, defend against immune system assaults, repair old damage, or fight off serious inflammatory diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. You can buy LifeGive's digestive enzymes online here.

• Miraculous Supplements: The Algaes- Every where you turn you can't help but read about "superfoods". "Superfoods this" and "superfoods that", everywhere you look! There is no such thing as a superfood people, there's just nutritious food, and junk food. EXCEPT for the algaes. Spirulina, Chorella, and Blue-Green Algae are quite literally the most healing, oxygen and enzymatically-rich, phyto-nutrient-filled miracles on the face of the earth. Blue-Green algae was the first life form on this planet, serving as the original DNA structure for all subsidiary life on the planet, and is therefore the most complete. Particularly blue-green algae has been scientifically proven to promote optimal brain function, as well as reverse cases of ADD/ADHD and learning disabilities at a jaw-dropping rate.

3.     Blood sugar regulation- Blood sugar disregulation is a very common and it has serious health consequences, including diabetes, heart disease, infertility, obesity and more. Blood sugar disregulation can be combated by eating small, more frequent meals that contain protein/fiber/healthy fats, avoiding simple sugars and saturated fats, and by engaging in regular exercise.

4.     Healthy Digestion- A healthy digestive system is essential for absorbing nutrients, excreting waste, keeping unwanted substances/pathogens out of the body, and maintaining a healthy immune system and nervous system. Avoiding food sensitivities and supporting the system with natural digestive aids and probiotics are keys to a healthy gastrointestinal tract (the best probiotic supplement is manfuctured by LifeGive), but you can also get good probiotics by eating fermented foods such as rejuvelac or sauerkraut.

5.     Elimination/Cleansing- Ridding the body of its normal metabolic waste in addition to the toxins accumulated from the enviroment is essential to proper functioning. Ground flax seeds, castor oil packs, skin brushing, sweating (saunas or exercise) support healthy elimination. Another great tactic (kids cover your ears) are weekly enemas, they clean and hydrate the colon for optimal functionality.

6.     Movement/Exercise-  Movement is important for SOO many reasons-stress reduction, circulation/cardiovascular health, weight control, mood, sleep, blood sugar, bowel function, and respiratory health are all affected. 

      Getting outside and moving daily is a great goal. Exercise is especially important for your brain's ability to produce certain "happiness" hormones; so yes, those people jogging down the side of the road at dusk actually ARE on drugs (well, organically-induced naturally occurring hormones, but nevertheless...)

7.     Sleep- A good night's sleep will improve your memory and immune system, and is essential to balancing your hormonal systems, which rely on a circadian rhythm. Get between 7-8 hours of sleep in absolute darkness every night for optimal wellness.

8.     Stress Reduction- An essential component of healthy living, stress reduction can come in many forms, including breathing exercises, medication, yoga, tai chi, visualization, music, walking in nature, communing with pets, and more. I don't know about you, but parking my butt in front of the TV or on a couch with a good book for an hour or so releases a ton of stress and allows me to unwind every night.

9.     Play/Spirit-Do something FUN every day!!! Laughter is essential for stress management and a healthy heart. Connection with something beyond oneself is also a vital part of health and well-being. If that means setting aside one hour out of every day to browse through trashy gossip magazines then so be it! Or it could be something as simple as grooming yourself, to something spontaneous like trying out that new pole-dancing cardio class your gym is offering!

10. Sunshine Therapy. 

      Get outside in the sun daily for optimal brain function, immune function, cancer prevention, mood, bone health etc. You will find no Vitamin D supplement on the market that is a better substitute then pure unadulterated sunlight. Be careful not to go into direct sunlight. Try to go out between 9-11am, or 2 hours before sunset, and when using sunscreen, make sure to use only ORGANIC sunscreen such as Aubrey Organics (can be found at Whole Foods or natural health food stores!)

Nothing transforms a mood more swiftly than properly engaging  your most influential sense: the sense of smell.  Lavender bubble bath can soothe away the stress of meetings, conference calls and lists. Lemon makes us keenly aware of a freshly scrubbed kitchen on Saturday morning, and it doesn't feel quite like the holidays without the smells of pumpkin and spice, pine needles and roasted turkey. Of course, we have our own personal favorites that we ritually douse ourselves in before work, cocktail hour, or a night out on the town. Triggering memories, different scents evoke all sorts of emotions, both good and bad.  And while people spend hundreds of dollars on their favorite fragrances, it is barely recognized that most scented products are created with toxic synthetic materials-- most of which are derived from petroleum. These toxic substances can irritate the skin, eyes, and/or lungs and induce asthma attacks. Using environmentally safe aromas to shift your mood can be beneficial to your health and consequently, even better for the environment.

A Few Basic Types

Energizing

These scents are usually citrus smells i.e. grapefruit, lemon, and orange, and are best used when you need to feel alert.
 
The next time you have to rework your budget, or clean house, try this all natural simmer pot recipe.

Lemon peel
Lime peel
1 cup fresh or dried peppermint leaves
1 cup fresh or dried sage leaves

Calming

When its time to destress, lavender is definitely a popular scent. However, there are other calming fragrances that can also settle the nerves.

Jasmine:  known to prevent both nervousness and sadness
Chamomile:  an herb with natural destressors
Bergamot:  derived from the bergamot fruit (citrus family), this oil promotes a more relaxed and happy feeling
Sandalwood: a woodsy scent that helps to relax the mind and regain clarity

Transform a hectic day by sipping a cup of jasmine or chamomile tea, light a soy candle, or add a few drops of essential oils into your bubble bath before bed. 
 
 
Down and Out

In these cases, it's always best to revisit positive experiences. Unfortunately, sometimes these scents are difficult to replicate. You can't bake shortbread cookies every time you get homesick, but  you can slather on an all natural vanilla scented lotion. In these cases, tap into what you enjoy the most. For example, if you know that you prefer floral scents, treat yourself to a fresh bouquet or make scents according to your type.  
 
Remember, synthetic fragrance is not limited to body sprays, but includes scented hand and body soaps, detergents, and house cleaning substances. These can be harmful to your body. Additionally, as these products go down the drain, their negative impact on the ecosystem increases.  Explore your options with natural scents and reduce the amount of toxins released into the environment and your body.

Note: Essential oils must always be researched prior to use, some (like ginger) can produce heat, and others can also irritate the skin if not diluted properly. Light carrier oils like vegetable or walnut oil should be used in conjunction with your scent of choice.

It's review time once again! I got a chance to use and review all-natural, handcrafted soaps from YesterYear Soap Company. The soaps arrived in a beautiful gift box (a set of 3 bars - Summer Citrus, Cherry Almond and Mango Papaya) and I was impressed from the very beginning by the packaging and the sweet aroma. Couldn't wait to use them the next day!

My favorite out of the three? The Summer Citrus! The soap has a light scent and the moment you use it, you can tell the difference from a commercial brand. It glides over your skin smoothly, lathers up adequately and leaves your skin feeling clean, moisturized and rejuvenated. No dryness or itchiness associated with the chemicals present in a conventional bar of soap. Another plus point - it leaves a fresh fragrance in your bathroom!  

YesterYear Soap Company preserves the timeless craft of artisan soap making - their soaps are handmade, one bar at a time, by human hands. No factories. The soaps are created from the purest and most natural ingredients (organic whenever possible) without added chemicals, preservatives or synthetic fragrances. Each soap bar balances the bar's hardness, lather quality and moisturizing ability perfectly to give your skin a soothing, moisturizing and cleansing experience. Here are a few facts about their soaps.

What gives YesterYear Soap its fragrance?

Their fragrance oils are either essential oils or blends of natural aroma components that are created to smell like the real thing. Many of their fragrance oils are blended from essential oils, but because they are not guaranteed to be 100% essential oil they are called fragrance oils. 

What makes their soap better?

A good bar soap balances bar hardness (durability), lather quality (both fluffiness and stability), and moisturizing ability. These different properties come from the different fatty acids that make up molecules of the vegetable oils we use as the base of our soap. Unfortunately, the fatty acids that are moisturizing are not those that contribute much to lather quality, and the ones that make great lather are drying to our skin. A perfect bar soap is the result of carefully balancing the fatty acids to maximize the bar's hardness, lather quality, and moisturizing ability.

Visit their website for more information on the YesterYear Soap Company story and to learn more about their soaps. 

Take the art off the walls and wear it on your handbag. These super chic, artistic organic cotton Cross Body Bags are from Eco Art Productions and they are on SALE for ONLY $19.50 on SaveGreenNow! 

The artwork on each of these handbags is by a noted American Artist -- the original art work is screened onto the bags using water based dyes. Their current Artists include Jasika Nicole (YES you got it right! Astrid Farnsworth from the TV show Fringe!), Jennifer Garant, Joanna Gregores, Kiara Sausedo, Raul del Rio, Sharon Watts and Shirly Novak. 

A thoughtful and unique holiday gift for family and friends. Choose from 15 original designs....GRAB the offer TODAY at SaveGreenNow. Sale ENDS Sunday, Dec 11, 2011.