Are Toxic Phthalates Lurking On Your Skin?

We all know the feeling. It’s been a long day so you treat yourself to a vanilla scented bubble bath. Your face feels a little dry and a cooling cucumber mask is just what the doctor ordered. The hell with it, let’s open the purple body scrub that smells like grapes and slather it all over. Do not disturb Mama, this girl needs a restful detox soaking in her … wait for it… a phthalates filled toxin bath?! While you’re lying in the tub have you ever turned over your bubble bath and read the ingredients label? If you did, you’d jump your naked self right out of that chemical filled water! Or have you wondered, “What in the world makes my shampoo smell so good?” Well it’s nothing from mother nature that’s for sure. You can thank (or smack) scientists in a lab for creating fragrances that contain hundreds of chemicals that are crazy toxic to our health. So those vanilla, cucumber and grape products that were supposed to feed your soul actually feed your cancer cells, hormones and more. The word that defines this class of chemicals is as hard to pronounce as it is for our bodies to digest. Ok say it with me, phthalates. Yup I felt like a jackass the first time I attempted to pronounce this word too. Let me break it down phonetically: Thal – Late. Here’s the definition from my buddies over at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, “Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and harder to break. They are often called plasticizers. Some phthalates are used as solvents (dissolving agents) for other materials. They are used in hundreds of products, such as vinyl flooring, adhesives, detergents, lubricating oils, automotive plastics, plastic clothes (raincoats), and personal-care products (soaps, shampoos, hair sprays, and nail polishes).” Our skin is the largest organ in our body and it’s absorbing every single thing we put on it. Just as you wouldn’t go out with someone who you know is going to break your heart, why put lotions on your body that you know are going to make your skin cells cry? 4 Reasons to Avoid Phthalates The National Toxicology Program lists phthalates as, “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.” DEHP (a class of phthalates) causes liver cancer in lab animals and the Environmental Protection Agency considers it a probable carcinogen. The National Toxicology Program concludes high levels of DINP (another class of phthalates) may adversely affect human reproduction or development. Other human and animal studies have found links to birth defects, decreased sperm counts and damaged sperm, increased risk of developing behavioral problems, premature birth, and respiratory difficulties in children with bronchial obstruction (such as asthma). How to Ditch Phthalates From Your Beauty Routine Alright, so how do we prevent smothering phthalates all over our beautiful bodies?  Check out every product’s backside. If there’s any ingredient with the following words: fragrance, fragrance blend, parfum or any version of the word paraben, put that sucker back on the shelf. The scary thing is you’ll rarely see this chemical straight up listed as a phthalate; it usually comes in the form of a fragrance. Companies don’t have to list what the “fragrance” is comprised of claiming it’s a trade secret. The other secret is that their secret can be made up of hundreds of different chemicals. When a scent stays with you for a long time, think, that’s phthalates sinking their teeth in like a snake injecting you with poisonous venom. Plenty of companies manufacture amazing lotions and body care products that are scented with essential oils and natural oils that are nourishing for your skin and overall health. Another upside, they’re almost always Cruelty Free. My two rescue dogs just licked my face for not testing on them. Before you soak, dip, scrub and get intimate with any product, have a date with The Environmental Working Group, www.ewg.org, and they’ll rate your product on a scale of 1-10 for toxicity and define exactly what’s in it. From here on out, any fragrance means no first base with me! About Jill: Jill Anenberg Lawrence is a Board Certified Holistic Health Coach, and is certified through Nutritious Life and The Institute for Integrative Nutrition. Jill also whips butts into shape as an ACE Certified Personal Trainer releasing humorous exercise videos on YouTube with silly cameos of her two rescue dogs. Raised by very health conscious parents, a health food store outing being a reward, a healthy lifestyle has always been second nature and a topic she’s consistently asked about. Health and fitness are Jill’s second passion after laughing so hard her abs get a workout. After many years performing stand-up making people laugh, she’s transitioned that love of entertaining to her true passion, educating others on health and wellness while keeping it fun & edgy!

Can’t Sleep? 4 Bulletproof Tools to Kick Insomnia

Can’t sleep? Tossing and turning making for some very restless nights? Losing precious hours of sleep can make even the most bright-eyed and bushy-tailed of us feel groggy, unfocused and just flat out cranky the next day. According to the National Sleep Foundation, more than 60 percent of adults report having sleep problems at least a few nights a week, and greater than 40 percent of adults experience daytime sleepiness severe enough to interfere with their daily activities at least a few days each month. If none of that describes you, we’re all jealous. For the rest of us, we need to be proactive to get ahead on some zzz’s. Science tells us that just like there are healthy foods that help you feel energized, boost your immune system and have glowing skin, there are also foods that help you sleep. But if you’ve got that covered, then I’ve got four non food tips for when you can’t sleep, too. Can’t Sleep? 4 Bulletproof Tools to Kick Insomnia Sleep (with the right) light: It’s time to stop caring what you look like when you’re asleep, peops. A sleep mask can go a long way by creating an environment of complete darkness. I’ve been accused of keeping it too bright in the bedroom, so take it from me, I know this change works. If the whole mask thing freaks you out or you’re more high tech than that you may want to try one of my favorite gadgets by Withings. This sleek alarm clock lights up your room in just the right way to help promote the secretion of sleep hormones! Yep, you read that right. Snooze without sounds: If the sound of cicadas is driving you crazy instead of helping you drift off to sleep, take control of your eardrums and invest in a white noise machine. On the go? Digital noise works, too. In fact, your white noise app just may take Instagram’s spot on your iphone. It’s also useful for those times when you find your hotel room is by the ice machine. Smell your way to sleep: Aromatherapy is one my favorite ways to help with relaxation and sleep. Try a dab of lavender on your pillow or rub into your temples. One study even showed essential oils like lavender cause a similar reaction on specific neuroreceptors as anti-anxiety medications. Lavender has long been associated with reducing anxiety and decreasing insomnia. Have you heard of Lavender and chill? It’s like Netflix and chill without the Netflix. Stress it out: Got things on the mind? I feel your pain, big time. I usually go to bed with just about 1,000 things on my mind nightly. A good way to put the buzzing in your head to rest is to write it down. Yes, put pen to paper and write down the few things you’re stressing about. You can get back to them in the morning but they’ll be less likely to take your zzz’s when you’ve released them for the evening. Can’t sleep just became can’t stay awake. Say goodbye to blinking cell phones, digital clocks, or faulty window shades. It’s time to make your dreams come true and get the rest that you deserve. Now go buy yourself some new fave pjs – seriously, if fun workout gear motivates you to get to the gym, then fun jammies should motivate you to get to bed – and challenge yourself to get a solid 8 hours tonight.

Guest Blog: What Are Essential Oils?

by Ronni Pitiger, NLC So exactly what are essential oils and why is everyone talking about them? Well, I’ll tell you. I used to think of essential oils as something that would evoke the woodstock generation, but there is so much more to discuss than your love or hate of the smell of patchouli.   An essential oil is an aromatic, volatile liquid that is found within many plants, bushes, trees, roots and seeds. It’s the blood of the plant, and it protects them from disease and climate change. They help detoxify cells and oxygenate the body, much like what you are trying to accomplish when you think about doing a cleanse. Basically, EO’s support your body to do what it’s supposed to, and they promote healthy skin, strong immune systems and stress reduction. EO’s have been around for thousands of years, but they were introduced into modern medicine shortly after WW1 when they were used for their antibacterial and wound healing properties. After all, there was no CVS around the corner, so they had to use what was available to them. But just like kale and quinoa have been marketed as new superfoods even though they’ve been around for forever, ancient EO’s are finding their much deserved 15 minutes of fame lately, too. How are Essential Oils Made? Some essential oils are distilled from plants, others resin tapped from trees, and citrus oils are cold pressed like the fresh juices we drink today.   How Are Essential Oils Used? When I bought my first EO’s, I really had no idea what to do with them. They smelled nice when I opened the bottles, but after that, no clue! Basically, they can be used in 3 ways: EO’s can be diffused directly into the air by using a cold water diffuser, and not only do you get the medicinal benefits, but they add moisture to your dry living space and are much safer than candles. EO’s can be applied topically, or used “neat” directly onto the skin. One or two drops of these powerful oils on the soles of your feet is all you need. EO’s can be consumed internally. A drop of lemon in your water is a great way to stay hydrated and boost your immune system. Essential Oils for Stress It’s safe to say we’ve become a completely stressed out society juggling careers, commutes, family, eating right, exercising, the list goes on. Extra stress hormones can wear out the body leaving us feeling depleted and weak. But good news: there are EO’s that help reduce stress, induce calmness, and promote relaxation. Lavender, Roman chamomile and cedarwood each have distinct stress reducing properties. A few drops in your evening bath or a few drops on the soles of your feet will promote a restful sleep. Diffusing a combination of these oils is also a great way to encourage a peaceful night’s rest. There are even EO’s for snoring! Essential Oils for Immunity Stress can also cause our immune systems to fail. There are EO’s that can be combined together  to create awesome immune boosters. Oregano, which is antibacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal and analgesic,  can be combined with lemon and frankincense for an immune boosting trifecta! Combine them with a base of coconut oil for a rub, or apply directly on the soles of feet, wrists and back of neck. And don’t forget to diffuse!   Essential Oils for Allergies Whether it’s pollen in the spring, mold and dust in the winter, or a random summertime cold, it’s no fun to suffer from allergies, asthma, colds, and coughs. There are many species of Eucalyptus that are expectorant, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory. Peppermint is an EO all star when it comes to congestion by relieving pain and respiratory issues when inhaled from cupped palms over your nose, diffused into the air, or applied topically on chest, temples or neck in a base of coconut oil. Homemade vapor rubs with no chemicals? Yep! Essential Oils for Healing Have you ever woken up the day after a bootcamp class and not been able to feel your quads? Holy sore muscles! Having the support of EO’s is a great (and smart) way to encourage physical strength and tissue repair. Peppermint, Idaho balsam fir, wintergreen, and copaiba each have specific analgesic, anesthetic and anti-inflammatory properties. They can be layered together with coconut, almond or jojoba oil for a natural healing balm.     About Ronni:                             Ronni Pitiger, NLC is a Certified Holistic Health Coach, Lifestyle Consultant, and Young Living Essential Oils Consultant.. Ronni works closely with her clients to help them create happy, healthy lives in a way that is fun, flexible and free of denial. By working with Ronni, she can help you discover food and lifestyle choices that best support you. Making gradual, lifelong changes enables Ronni’s clients to reach their health goals. Ronni also has a passion for Essential Oils and will offer a consultation on their many uses and benefits.  

How Does Kathryn Budig Live a Nutritious Life?

Kathryn Budig is an internationally celebrated yoga teacher and author known for her accessibility, humor, and ability to empower her students through her message, ‘aim true’. With over a decade of experience in her field, she is a regular contributor to Women’s Health Magazine, Yoga Journal, an athlete in Under Armour’s IWILLWHATIWANT campaign, an ambassador for Ford’s Warrior’s in Pink and the founder of her animal project, Poses for Paws. Kathryn radiates health and wellness in all ways and every time I see her I learn a little something. Last time we chatted all things aromatherapy. I can’t wait to soak up more Kathryn when her next book comes out, Aim True, in January 2016 (published by William Morrow, an imprint of Harper Collins.) In the meantime, you can learn how this yoga beauty lives her most Nutritious Life here:   How do you DRINK UP? I’m downing water as I write this! Hydration is key. Mainly water, but I love coconut water as well. When I lift a glass it’s normally a California red, New Zealand white, or rose bubble:)   How do you EAT EMPOWERED? I adore my food and view the whole experiences around food as love. I’m a huge foodie and find no better way to tell someone I love them than by preparing a homemade meal for them. I believe in making daily healthy choices but living guilt free when I choose to indulge.   How do you LIVE CONSCIOUSLY? I take small actions that I know add up. I always carry re-usable bags and water jar in my purse to cut back on plastic waste. I fundraise regularly for my project Poses for Paws that raises awareness and helps different animal shelters. I surround myself with people who lift me up and challenge me to grow on a daily basis.   How do you LOVE MORE? Loving comes naturally. My husband says I always see the best in people because I believe in magic. I believe my capacity to love can influence others to do the same, so I love more by example.   How do you NURTURE YOURSELF? Epsom salt baths, reading juicy fiction novels, taking time to write for myself and experimenting in the kitchen.   How do you SLEEP DEEP? I try to stay away from my phone and emails (or other stressors) before bedtime. I make a blend of essential oils that I put on before bedtime and sleep with a humidifier that diffuses my favorite relaxing oil blends.   How do you STRESS LESS? I meditate daily, practice yoga, walk my dogs, lounge on my Biomat and take time away from my electronics.   How do you SWEAT OFTEN? I’ve been practicing yoga for years and recently fell in love with martial arts and boxing.   Want to learn more about Kathryn?  Visit www.kathrynbudig.com for her blog and recipes, check out her Aim True Yoga DVD produced by Gaiam, and pick up her book The Women’s Health Big Book of Yoga. She currently teaches and lectures around the world and online regularly at Yogaglo, too. #Aimtrue  

How Does Deliciously Ella Live a Nutritious Life?

Ella Woodward is the author of popular food blog, DeliciouslyElla.com. She is a graduate of St. Andrews and is training as a naturopathic nutritionist at the College of Naturopathic Medicine while also developing her app, teaching cooking classes, and hosting supper clubs. Let me tell you, every moment I spent chatting with Ella, was simply, well, delicious!  Read below for a glimpse into how Ella lives her Nutritious Life in London. How do you DRINK UP? I drink a lot of water. And, a lot of herbal tea. I also have a habit of going to the local juice bar daily. Wherever I am, I always try to get in a smoothie or juice each day. What’s Ella’s fave juice? Spicy pineapple with ginger and cayenne.   How do you EAT EMPOWERED? By taking control.  I like to cook proper meals and incorporate variety into my diet.  It’s easy to snack, snack, snack but I like to sit down to proper meals and I like to cook my meals.   How do you LIVE CONSCIOUSLY? I’m mindful of all aspects of my life. I believe…messy space, messy brain. And, I act like a mess. I need to clean my space before I can work and be productive. I also practice yoga.   How do you LOVE MORE? I find the better relationship I have with myself the more love I’m able to give to other people so I’m always working on being happy in myself. I’m a very open, expressive person though so being loving to everyone around me comes very naturally!   How do you NURTURE YOURSELF? I take some “me time” every day. I used to work, work, work but I have learned that I need some time for me every single day. It may be a spin class, yoga or dinner with a girlfriend.   How do you STRESS LESS? I work out! Intense cardio or interval training helps me reduce stress.  Cardio is time with just yourself. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in the minutia of day to day, so I try to take time out to gain perspective.  Honestly exercise is like a magic pill for me, it keeps me so balanced.   How do you SLEEP DEEP? I take epsom salt baths and add essential oils like lavender. It’s a nice break before bed and I don’t have my phone!   How do you SWEAT OFTEN? I love to spin! I go to a place called Psycle in London and I enjoy the darkness and loud music and how this helps you get into the zone.   If you want more Ella, check out her new book, Deliciously Ella: 100+ Easy, Healthy, and Delicious Plant-Based, Gluten-Free Recipes available wherever books are sold and don’t forget to make her favorite recipe from the book, Almond Butter Fudge (see recipe below) stat.   ALMOND BUTTER FUDGE The first time I made this fudge my roommates and I ate the whole batch within about three hours and then had to remake it the next day because we were craving it so much; it’s that good—dangerously good, even! Each bite is so gooey and chocolaty, it’s crazy to think it’s made from just four ingredients. The fudge is stored in the freezer, so you can make big batches of it to store for later, which means you always have something deliciously healthy to enjoy any time of the day.   Makes about 20 pieces   INGREDIENTS 7 ounces Medjool dates (about 20), pitted 10 tablespoons almond butter (recipe on page 22) 4 tablespoons coconut oil 3 tablespoons raw cacao powder   DIRECTIONS Place the dates in a saucepan with a little boiling water. Allow them to cook for 5 minutes, until they’re really soft and all sticking together. If there is any water left in the pan, then drain it and set the dates to one side to cool for a couple of minutes. Place the almond butter, coconut oil and cacao powder in a food processor and add the dates in before blending for a minute or 2, until a sticky paste forms. Line a 10-inch baking dish with parchment paper and pour the mix in before putting it into the freezer to set for at least 3 hours before serving. Store in the freezer. When you want to enjoy a piece, take it out of the freezer and allow it to warm up for a few minutes before eating. Top tip: Try adding chunks of nuts and raisins to this to change the texture and add more of a crunch.   Excerpted from DELICIOUSLY ELLA by Ella Woodward. Copyright © 2015 by Ella Woodward.  Excerpted with permission by Scribner, a Division of Simon & Schuster, Inc. Photo Credit: Clare Winfield