Kombucha, the effervescent and tangy fermented tea, has taken the wellness world by storm. With its probiotic benefits and refreshing taste, it's no wonder that more and more people are trying their hand at brewing their own kombucha at home. But why should you consider making and flavoring your own kombucha?
Why Make and Flavor Your Own Kombucha?
- Cost-Effective: Brewing kombucha at home can be significantly cheaper than buying it from stores, especially if you drink it regularly.
- Control Over Ingredients: When you make your own, you have complete control over the quality and type of ingredients used.
- Customization: You can tailor the flavor and sweetness to your exact preferences.
- Experimentation: Making kombucha at home allows you to try unique flavor combinations that may not be available commercially.
- Reduced Packaging Waste: Homebrewing eliminates the need for single-use bottles or cans.
- Fun and Rewarding: The process of brewing and flavoring your own kombucha can be an enjoyable and satisfying hobby.
One of the most exciting aspects of homebrewing kombucha is the ability to experiment with flavors. But can you really make your kombucha any flavor you want? The short answer is yes! Let's dive into the world of kombucha flavoring and explore the endless possibilities.
The Fermentation Process
Flavoring kombucha usually happens during the second half of fermentation. After the initial fermentation, where the sweet tea is transformed into kombucha with the help of a SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast), you can add your desired flavors and let it ferment a bit longer to develop those flavors and carbonation. If you don't know how to make kombucha at home or need a refresher, you can learn how to make it here.
Choosing Your Kombucha Flavors
The beauty of making your own kombucha is that you can get as creative as you want with the flavors. Here are some popular categories and ideas to get you started:
1. Fruits
Fruits are a classic choice for flavoring kombucha. You can use fresh, frozen, or even dried fruits. Some popular options include:
- Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Citrus (lemon, lime, orange)
- Tropical fruits (mango, pineapple, passion fruit)
- Stone fruits (peach, apricot, cherry)
2. Herbs and Spices
Adding herbs and spices can give your kombucha a unique and sophisticated twist. Consider experimenting with:
- Mint
- Basil
- Ginger
- Turmeric
- Cinnamon
- Cloves
3. Flowers
Edible flowers can add a delicate and aromatic touch to your kombucha. Some options include:
- Hibiscus
- Lavender
- Rose petals
- Chamomile
4. Teas and Other Beverages
You can also infuse your kombucha with other teas or beverages for a complex flavor profile. Try:
- Green tea
- Chai tea
- Rooibos tea
- Coffee (for a kombucha-coffee hybrid)
- My favorite antioxidant puree to flavor my kombucha!
Tips for Successful Kombucha Flavoring
While the possibilities are nearly endless, here are some tips to ensure your flavored kombucha turns out delicious:
- Start Small: When trying a new flavor, start with a small batch to see how it turns out before committing to a larger quantity.
- Sanitize Everything: Cleanliness is crucial in kombucha brewing to prevent contamination.
- Taste as You Go: During the flavoring process, taste your kombucha periodically to see how the flavors are developing.
- Strain Before Drinking: If you've added solid ingredients like fruit chunks or herbs, strain your kombucha before drinking to remove any debris, or blend if you want the thicker added ingredients.
In the world of kombucha brewing, the sky's the limit when it comes to flavoring. Whether you prefer fruity, herbal, floral, or even tea-infused flavors, you can customize your kombucha to suit your taste buds. So, grab your SCOBY, get creative, and start experimenting with your favorite flavors. Happy brewing!
By following these tips and exploring different flavor combinations, you can create a unique and delicious kombucha that reflects your personal taste. The possibilities are endless, so don't be afraid to get creative and try new things. Your perfect kombucha flavor is just a brew away!
My Top 8 Slow Fashion Natural Baby Clothes Brand Favorites: Organic Cotton & Ethically Sourced Linen
Why Choosing Slow Fashion and Natural Baby Clothes Matters
As parents, we want the best for our children, and that includes their clothing. Choosing slow fashion and natural baby clothes is not just about style for me; it's about making conscious decisions that benefit our children and the planet. Here are a few reasons why it matters:
- Health and Safety: Babies have sensitive skin that can react to harsh chemicals found in conventional clothing. Natural fibers like organic cotton and ethically sourced linen are free from harmful pesticides and toxins, making them safer for our little ones.
- Environmental Impact: The fashion industry is one of the largest polluters in the world. By opting for sustainable brands that use eco-friendly materials and ethical production methods, we are helping to reduce waste and pollution, contributing to a healthier planet.
- Support for Ethical Practices: Many slow fashion brands prioritize fair labor practices, ensuring that workers are paid fairly and work in safe conditions. Supporting these brands means we are advocating for social responsibility in the fashion industry.
- Durability and Longevity: Natural fabrics are often more durable than synthetic alternatives, meaning they can withstand the wear and tear of baby life. This durability makes them ideal for hand-me-downs, reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.
- A Positive Example: By choosing sustainable and ethical clothing for our babies, we set a positive example for future generations. Teaching children about the importance of sustainability and ethical consumption can instill values that last a lifetime.
Let me share with you my eight top brands (in no particular order) that offer the best in natural and ethically sourced baby clothes, each with unique features to suit different parenting styles and preferences. I have some from each!
1. Burt's Bees Baby: Affordable Organic Comfort
Burt's Bees Baby offers a well-structured collection that makes choosing the right clothes easy and efficient. Their line includes:
- 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton for reliable quality
- Adorable designs at affordable prices
- Durable garments perfect for hand-me-downs
- Easy-to-use footed onesies and zip-up rompers for quick dressing
Parents appreciate Burt's Bees Baby for its combination of quality, sustainability, and practicality, ensuring ethically sourced materials in every piece.
2. Finn + Emma: Whimsical and Ethical
Finn + Emma stands out with its commitment to both style and sustainability, appealing to parents who value social responsibility:
- 100% organic cotton and eco-friendly dyes
- Fair trade production practices that support ethical sourcing
- Unique designs with natural wood accessories
- Perfect for parents seeking ethically-made, stylish baby apparel
3. Primary: Colorful Basics for Easy Mix-and-Match
Primary focuses on simplicity and versatility, offering a fun and energetic approach to baby clothing:
- GOTS-certified organic cotton clothing
- Vibrant, solid colors for easy outfit coordination
- Budget-friendly options under $30
- Tagless designs and pre-washed fabrics for maximum comfort (great for sensitive skin & sensory needs!)
Their commitment to ethical sourcing ensures that every piece is produced responsibly, giving parents peace of mind.
4. Aster & Oak: Australian Organic Elegance
This Australian brand offers a touch of down-under charm with a focus on comfort and care:
- Soft, natural fabrics with beautiful designs
- GOTS-certified materials that are ethically sourced
- Ethical production practices
- Functional and stylish options for eco-conscious parents
5. Colored Organics: Comfort with a Cause
Colored Organics goes beyond just clothing, appealing to parents who want to make a positive impact:
- Wide range of organic cotton baby and kids' clothes
- Super cozy, hypoallergenic fabrics for sensitive skin
- Socially responsible business model helping children in need
- Diverse collections including muslin and ethically sourced linen options
6. Kate Quinn: Luxurious Organic Fashion
Kate Quinn brings a touch of luxury to organic baby wear, perfect for parents who love to research and understand the details behind their purchases:
- GOTS-certified organic cotton and eco-friendly dyes
- Ethically sourced materials ensuring safe production
- Vibrant colors and playful patterns
- High-quality, unique designs popular among parents seeking premium organic baby clothes
7. Toby Tiger: Fun and Colorful Designs
Toby Tiger is known for its playful, vibrant designs that make dressing your baby an exciting experience:
- 100% organic cotton clothing
- Bright colors and fun patterns that make dressing enjoyable
- Commitment to ethical production practices
- Durable and comfortable options that withstand active play
8. MakeMake Organics: Minimalist and Gender-Neutral
For parents who prefer a more subdued style and appreciate well-researched, sustainable options:
- GOTS-certified organic cotton clothing
- Modern, calming designs
- Gender-neutral options
- Focus on simplicity, comfort, and ethically sourced fabrics
Choosing slow fashion and natural materials for your baby's wardrobe is more than just a trend—it's a commitment to your child's comfort and the planet's well-being. These eight brands offer a wide range of options to suit every style, budget, and parenting philosophy, all while ensuring ethically sourced materials. By investing in these natural baby clothes, you're not only ensuring that your little one is dressed in the softest, safest materials but also supporting ethical practices in the fashion industry. As you build your baby's wardrobe, consider the long-term impact of your choices—on your child's skin, your wallet, and the environment. Remember, every small step towards sustainability counts, so it doesn't need to be all or nothing. One outfit or staple pair of pants or dress can go a long way! Start your baby's journey with clothes that are as pure and natural as they are. Your little one — and our Earth — will thank you for it!
Are you wondering what to do with those leftover vanilla beans from making extract? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will show you how to transform used vanilla beans into delicious, aromatic vanilla sugar. Perfect for bakers, coffee lovers, and anyone looking to add a touch of gourmet flavor to their kitchen creations, this easy DIY project will elevate your culinary game while reducing waste.
What is Vanilla Sugar?
Vanilla sugar is a fragrant, flavored sugar that infuses your recipes with the rich, complex taste of real vanilla. By making it at home, you're not only saving money but also reducing waste by upcycling used vanilla beans. This versatile ingredient can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes, adding depth and sophistication to your cooking and baking.
Ingredients and Tools
To make your own vanilla sugar, you'll need:
- Used vanilla beans from extract-making, a few beans per cup of sugar
- Granulated sugar (1 cup per vanilla bean)
- Airtight container or jar
- Coffee grinder or spice grinder
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Thoroughly rinse the used vanilla beans to remove any residual alcohol from the extract-making process.
- Pat the beans dry with a clean towel, then air-dry them for 1-2 days. For faster results, place them in a low-temperature oven (around 170°F/75°C) for a few hours.
- Once completely dry and brittle, break the vanilla beans into smaller pieces to fit in your grinder.
- Using a coffee or spice grinder, grind the dried vanilla bean pieces into a fine powder. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the vanilla flavor throughout the sugar.
- In an airtight container, mix 1 cup of granulated sugar with the vanilla bean powder. Stir well to ensure even distribution.
- Seal the container tightly and give it a good shake to further mix the vanilla powder with the sugar.
- Let the mixture sit for at least a week to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
Pro Tips for Perfect Vanilla Sugar
- Ensure the vanilla beans are completely dry before grinding to prevent clumping in the sugar. This is an important step!
- Clean your grinder thoroughly after use to prevent flavor transfer to other spices.
- The vanilla flavor will intensify over time, so taste and adjust as needed.
- For a more intense vanilla flavor, use more ground vanilla bean or less sugar.
Creative Uses for Homemade Vanilla Sugar
- Enhance your morning coffee or tea by stirring in a spoonful of vanilla sugar.
- Elevate baked goods and desserts by substituting regular sugar with vanilla sugar in recipes.
- Create gourmet cocktail rims by dipping glass edges in vanilla sugar.
- Sprinkle over fresh fruit, oatmeal, or yogurt for a delightful breakfast treat.
- Use in savory dishes, such as tomato sauces or meat rubs, for added depth of flavor.
- Make vanilla-infused whipped cream by using vanilla sugar instead of regular sugar.
- Create a luxurious body scrub by mixing vanilla sugar with coconut oil.
Why Make Your Own Vanilla Sugar?
- Cost-effective: Get more value from expensive vanilla beans by using them twice.
- Eco-friendly: Reduce waste by upcycling used beans that might otherwise be discarded.
- Customizable: Control the intensity of vanilla flavor to suit your taste preferences. You can also experiment with different types of vanilla beans!
- Versatile: Use in both sweet and savory recipes for a unique flavor profile.
- Gourmet touch: Elevate everyday recipes with a homemade, artisanal ingredient.
- Gift-worthy: Package your homemade vanilla sugar in decorative jars for a thoughtful, handmade gift.
Storage and Shelf Life
Properly stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, your homemade vanilla sugar can last for several months, if not longer. The vanilla flavor will continue to develop over time, so don't be afraid to make a large batch.
By following this guide, you'll master the art of making vanilla sugar at home. Not only will you have a delicious ingredient on hand, but you'll also be practicing sustainable cooking by making the most of your vanilla beans. The process is simple, rewarding, and results in a product that's far superior to store-bought alternatives. Start experimenting with your homemade vanilla sugar today and discover the difference it can make in your culinary creations. From morning coffee to decadent desserts, this versatile ingredient will add a touch of gourmet flair to your everyday cooking and baking. Embrace the art of upcycling and elevate your kitchen game with this easy, eco-friendly project!
Summer is the season of sunshine, beach trips, and outdoor adventures on the homestead or in the park. To make the most of these warm, glorious days, having the right essentials is key. This summer, why not embrace natural and eco-friendly products that are kind to both your body and the environment? Here are my top five natural summertime must-haves to keep you cool, protected, and glowing all season long.
1. Natural Sunscreen
Protecting your skin from the sun's harsh rays is crucial, but conventional sunscreens often contain chemicals that can harm both your skin and marine or lake life. Opt for a natural sunscreen made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (our favorite is this one). These mineral-based sunscreens provide broad-spectrum protection without the harmful chemicals. Look for options that are reef-safe and biodegradable to ensure you're not contributing to ocean pollution while enjoying the waves.
Why Choose It:
- Non-toxic ingredients
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Environmentally friendly
2. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is a summer skincare staple. Known for its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera gel is perfect for treating sunburns, insect bites, and general skin irritation. It's also a fantastic natural moisturizer that won't leave your skin feeling greasy. Keep a bottle of pure, organic aloe vera gel in your fridge for a refreshing and cooling application after a day in the sun. Add some lavender to it for additional skin soothing properties.
Benefits:
- Natural anti-inflammatory properties
- Hydrates and soothes skin, especially when lavender is added
- Can be used on hair and scalp for hydration
3. Homeopathic Allergy Relief
Summer brings a bloom of flowers and, unfortunately, a surge in allergens. For those who suffer from seasonal allergies, homeopathic remedies can provide effective relief without the side effects of conventional medications. Remedies like Allium cepa, Histaminum Hydrochloricum, and Sabadilla are known to alleviate symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. (Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best remedy for your specific symptoms.)
Advantages:
- Minimal side effects
- Gentle on the body
- Targets the root cause of symptoms without negative effects
4. Natural Insect Repellent
Bugs can be a real nuisance during summer, but conventional insect repellents are often loaded with DEET and other harmful chemicals. Natural insect repellents, made with essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, and lavender, provide effective protection without the toxicity (our favorite here). These botanical ingredients not only repel bugs but also smell good and benefit the environment.
Why It's Better:
- Free from harmful chemicals
- Safe for all ages
- Pleasant natural fragrance
5. Homeopathic Bug Bite Relief
Despite your best efforts, sometimes those pesky bugs still manage to bite. Homeopathic remedies can offer soothing relief from the itching and swelling. Remedies like Apis mellifica are particularly effective for bug bites. My 20 month old daughter got huge welt-like swelling from bug bites a few weeks ago, but she's barely had any swelling from bug bites since we grabbed this remedy and gave it to her after seeing she had bugs bothering her. Additionally, individuals who frequently attract bugs might have deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins, zinc, and magnesium. Ensuring you have a balanced diet or taking appropriate supplements can help reduce your attractiveness to insects.
Perks:
- Reduces itching and swelling naturally
- Safe for all skin types
- Can address underlying deficiencies that attract bugs
Embrace a Natural Summer
By incorporating these natural summertime must-haves into your daily routine, you can enjoy the season to the fullest while being kind to your body and the planet. Whether you're lounging on the beach, hiking through the mountains, or simply enjoying your yard, these eco-friendly essentials will keep you protected, refreshed, and ready for adventure. Embrace the natural way of living this summer and experience the difference for yourself!
I know that this time of year (but really all the time... let's face it) is hard on families with small children. Colds and flu and back-to-school hit us hard! So many people ask me how I support our family to 1) try not to get hit so often and 2) support us through the experience when we do come down with something.
Here are my Top 5 Tools for supporting our family throughout the year, but especially now:
1. Aged Garlic Liquid -- this is HUGE if your family deals with all the ear problems... iykyk. I use it for the little one while nursing so that it stays in the ear longer while she's on her side. You can put it inside the ear or take it by mouth!
2. These cough drops and all the stuff on this list -- if you're dealing with the respiratory stuff, we seem especially susceptible to that around here! But we LOVE these cough drops and the chest rub. So worth it.
3. Using a steam inhaler is super helpful for breaking up gunk -- babies can't use it, but the shower has the same steam effect for them! Standing in the bathroom while the hot shower is running can help.
4. Getting in plenty of fluids and antioxidants! We love these electrolyte drops in our water and this supplement for supporting the happy cells to do their work in the body.
5. Drinking echinacea tea! I made it for me and baby girl last week and cooled hers with an ice cube. :)
Hope this helps! Having these on hand has made a world of a difference for us when the ick strikes.
Today I want to talk about something just for those of us with a menstrual cycle. 
In the spirit of being eco-friendly and reducing/reusing/recycling, let's talk about eco-friendly menstrual products.
I personally use cloth pads. (These ones here or some really cute ones you can get on Etsy too! Find what fits for your body and works for you).
I know many people who use a reusable menstrual cup.
Both I think are great! Here's my top 4 reasons for the switch:
1. Eco-friendly: this was a BIG one for me. I'm all about less waste.
2. Less toxin exposure: my period used to be longer and more painful at the beginning than it needed to be because those disposable, one-time use products contain irritants and such that BOTHER our bodies and systems in different ways. Keep in mind that cheaply made cloth ones actually can too. But... Eliminate that? Less bothering the system, and for me resulted in a less painful, more regular cycle with shorter period. Who doesn't want that?! 
3. Comfort: my sensitive body is all about comfort, and once I realized it was actually more comfortable because I invested in quality pads, I felt way more comfortable!
4. Cheaper: no need to go stock up at Target or wherever every month anymore! I've been using the same set for 3 years now and they still look GREAT. I do keep some disposable on hand for random overnight trips if I don't want to think ahead more and plan for cleaning the cloth ones, but that's not often for me.
***Cleaning them is easy-peasy! I just hand-wash with the best ever non-toxic plant-based laundry soap, so they smell good AND stay really nice! Win-win! 
(Let me know if you need care tips, happy to share my how-to!)
(Let me know if you need care tips, happy to share my how-to!)Pro-tip: if you're trying to avoid toxins like I mentioned in #2, you're doing yourself a disservice by washing them in regular laundry detergent. Go look up the ingredients of that stuff... 
No thanks. No matter what you're using, I recommend googling a few (or all!) ingredient names just to see what they are/do. You may be surprised at what you find even if you are using a "natural" laundry soap. Ask me about what I use for the best, most cost effective laundry soap around!
No thanks. No matter what you're using, I recommend googling a few (or all!) ingredient names just to see what they are/do. You may be surprised at what you find even if you are using a "natural" laundry soap. Ask me about what I use for the best, most cost effective laundry soap around!Do you use cloth pads/a menstrual cup? If not, what are your concerns? I guarantee you that I had one of your concerns before I made the switch! Ask away -- no question is too weirdo for me! 
Depending where you live, food can be costly. But there are a few simple ways to make your grocery shopping effective and efficient. After all,
All foods either help us heal or make us sick.
I personally want to do the former instead of the latter. :)
How to Eat Well on a Budget
1) Go out to eat less (or not at all!) -- eating out costs a LOT. You're paying to be waited on plus the actual food plus the labor of making it! And it's usually not healthy anyway. Save that money you would've spent eating out and budget it for healthier food at the grocery store instead.
2) Meal plan -- plan out what you're going to eat when, especially if you are busy in the evenings. (Stay tuned for an awesome meal planning freebie coming soon!)
3) Make double portions -- and either freeze the rest or eat leftovers a few nights in one week! Making food healthy doesn't mean you need to cook or bake every night of the week.
4) Ditch the microwave -- I did a training about this in Abundant Life Community if you'd like to know more about why this is important! Your food is your body's fuel.
5) Cancel any subscriptions you don't use and put that extra money each month towards your food budget. Every dollar counts!
There you have it! Feel like you've got these down but need more direction on clean eating? I've got a Clean Eating Ingredients Freebie you can check out to push the needle even further on your goals. You got this!
Do you wake up in the morning feeling energized and alive? If you answer “no” to that, you’re not alone. SO many people are leading busy lives during the day and not getting enough restful sleep at night, and feel like they are dragging during the day. I know I was a few years ago.
If you are stressed-out and sleep-deprived, it is likely that you are turning to refined sugars and caffeine to get through the day. The problem is not your morning cup of coffee or enjoying the taste... the problem is when the resulting blood sugar crash leads to an afternoon coffee or sugar craving and then another, and another, and another...
Once the cycle has started, it’s very difficult to achieve a state of balance until it's broken. When the body’s natural energy rhythms are off, these issues can pop up: raging food cravings, weakened immune system, increased inflammation in the body, weight issues, difficulty with restful sleep, and more.
In order to proactively care for your body, soul, and mind, it is important to break the cycle. Some people can quit caffeine and sugar cold turkey. Most people struggle with that, though. Since sugar and caffeine are addictive, withdrawals are common, usually in the form of headaches and fatigue. Gradually reduce the amount you’re consuming AND find a replacement that will truly fuel your body's need for energy. Often we also become attached to the routine, so it is important to find something else that can be just as emotionally satisfying. I have LOTS of great healthful fuel ideas in Abundant Life Community.
It's not that you have to go the rest of your life without birthday cake or an occasional cappuccino. These foods are meant to be enjoyed in very occasional moderation. If daily indulgences begin to take their toll on energy levels, take simple steps to regain control and reconnect with feeling naturally alert and energized all day long. It's 100% doable!! But it starts with belief, mindset, and practical action steps. Having a cheerleader can be SO beneficial along the way, too. I'm starting a natural energy challenge mid-April if you would like practical steps, a mentor to walk you through it, and the determination to complete what you start! Contact me if you're interested, and I'll ask you a few basic questions to ensure that this challenge is right for you.
Gardening organically can be slightly harder in certain instances, but it is well worth the pay-off. Growing your own nutrient-dense food that is as natural as possible is becoming increasingly important to many families.
What to do about pests though?
Or what about a natural way to get rid of fleas once your lovable pooch has already brought them home?
I got both covered. :)
Here's your special ingredient, something I ALWAYS have on hand, and 6 awesome uses for it:
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a very fine powder that contains tiny pre-historic aquatic organisms called diatoms which are made of silica. Some brands of DE (like in the link above) may be taken internally as well as used around the house. I personally only use a brand that is food grade, as I would not want children/pets getting into anything that was not safe to ingest already, you know what I mean? I don't have chemical insect repellant, cleaners, or sunscreen in the house (I've written about that here), let alone anything else that's harmful to my precious family.
6 Awesome Uses of DE:
1. Overall health benefits for hair, skin, nails, body, and brain. DE usually contains trace minerals, and we are often deficient in silica, which also has some amazing properties. Go do a little google search to see for yourself!
2. Great addition to facial scrubs, deodorant, carpet cleaner, and more. Just AVOID eyes (and nose on furry friends).
3. Kills fleas that your pooch brought in! The fine and abrasive nature of the powder causes insects with exoskeletons to dehydrate fatally. Dust pup 2x per day until pests are seen to be gone (be careful to avoid mouth & eyes, as the fine dust particles can irritate mucus membranes!).
4. Pest control in the garden. Re-apply once per day after noticing pests after dew or rain has dried for best use.
5. DE has detoxifying properties and can be used alongside these other gentle cleansing and detoxing tips.
6. In vegetable gardening, DE is sometimes used as a soil conditioner, because it can retain water and nutrients while draining fast and freely, allowing more air circulation to bring additional oxygen to the root system within the soil (which you want).
Want to receive updates to the blog? You can sign up to get them straight to your inbox or phone here so you don't miss any. Or join my free group, Abundant Life Community, for more natural food, household, and gardening tips. :)
*Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links. All things I love and use, of course!
Have you started this journey towards natural wellness and felt overwhelmed once you started reading? There is SO MUCH information out there. A nerdy learner like me loves digging to find the real truth about things, how to do it best on a budget, and to make it simple for the people I care about.
Here's the deal: you don't have to make all of the changes overnight.
Sometimes, it's just one baby step at a time.
One change can make a big difference over time, especially if you keep going and make small frequent changes as you grow and learn.
5 Easy Simple Swaps
1. Deodorant -- did you know that most antiperspirants on the market contain aluminum, which is a known toxin (especially for breast tissue... and look how close to your chest your armpits are... yuck!!). One of the littlest but biggest changes you can make is to switch your deodorant out. I use a natural one, but there are loads of recipes out there! I just DIY-failed too many times on this one to want to make my own (they turned out the wrong consistency one too many times, so I just buy mine now). Ha!
2. Toothpaste -- so many conventional toothpastes have artificial colors and other nasties in them that can wreak havoc on our sleep or focus (when do you brush?), not to mention cause issues with digestive system (you DO put it in your mouth, you know!) or other areas. I know some people who make their own, but I love my natural one. And it doubles as deodorant if I run out -- how cool is that?!
3. Dryer Sheets -- get rid of them!!! Using wool dryer balls is so much more environmentally friendly, cheaper, and eliminates the toxic chemicals in those from covering your clothes and thus sitting on your skin. Your skin is your biggest organ! Take care what you put on it. Speaking of skin...
4. Hand Soap -- there are SO many ways to make your own foaming hand soap. I lead classes teaching about natural wellness hacks, and we often make foaming hand soap at the end because it's so EASY and much cheaper and kinder to the skin, especially during the dry winter months. Here's a good recipe:
DIY Foaming Handsoap
-3 TBSP Dr. Bronner's Unscented Castile Soap
DIY Foaming Handsoap
-3 TBSP Dr. Bronner's Unscented Castile Soap
-10 drops essential oils of choice (make sure it's a really good one! Some out there have hidden ingredients and can harm you... contact me for my recommendations.)
-Fill 3/4ths way with water!
5. Dish Soap -- what you use on your dishes eventually makes its way into your food. You eat off of those bowls! Please don't put artificially colored and sudsy liquid on your dishes to "clean" them. It's not so clean after all. There are options for making your own, but the natural one I buy can be diluted 3x because it's so concentrated. Score!
There you have it! 5 areas you can make simple swaps to start or continue on this natural wellness journey.
Detoxing and cleansing are super important for our body to optimally function, especially right now. To learn more about why detoxing and cleansing is important, check out my other post here.
But now that you know why it's important...
5 Ways to Actively Detoxify and Gently Cleanse
2. Lower (or Eliminate!) Processed Sugar Intake
Processed sugar, when consumed in excess as most modern foods/diets do, can affect our health negatively in several ways. It can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of several potential diseases. Reduce consumption of sugar, table salt, processed foods, and junk foods to help the body lower inflammation and detoxify.
3. Add Antioxidants to Your Diet
Antioxidants protect our cells against free radicals. Unhealthy habits including smoking, following a modern processed food diet, drinking too much alcohol, exposure to pollutants such as toxic ingredients found in personal care products and household cleaners, and more can lead to the accumulation of free radicals in the body. To fight these, we can add foods loaded with antioxidants to our diet daily like wolfberries, grapes, onion, garlic, mango, spinach, capsicum, and certain herbal teas. Some have a much higher content than others, so if you're looking for the highest antioxidant content in foods, check out my favorites list below.
My top 5 favorite foods and teas high in antioxidants:
-- Wolfberries, specifically a certain kind from China: learn more about my favorite kind.
-- Increasing fiber in your diet -- I specifically like a supplement called ICP for occasional help with increasing fiber in my diet and helping scrub that colon wall (you can purchase it here, though not everyone benefits from the same thing. Schedule a wellness consult with me to get more info or shoot me an email).
-- High-quality garlic and other foods high in antioxidants. Always choose organic/locally grown, when you can, and go out of your way to prioritize that. Why? Learn more about it from my dad who has an 8-acre organic vegetable farm near Rochester, MN.
4. Get Good Sleep -- Why Sleep is Foundational for Wellness
5. Do a specific cleanse/reset of the digestive system.
I am actually newer to this concept (it's something I'm still learning about!) but I am going to be doing a cleanse (no food, just a homemade lemon juice mix for 10 days!) described in this book after the Thanksgiving holiday before Christmas so my body and digestive system/colon can reset.
Some of the supplies/ingredients needed:
-- Maple Syrup (someone else doing this cleanse specifically recommended getting this kind, perhaps it says in the book why, but I haven't read the book yet!)
-- A caffeine free laxative tea like this one
-- Ground Cayenne Pepper
If you're interested in joining me, get the materials above and let me know you're doing it! There's a few other tips I've learned from others doing it that can be super helpful, and I can pass along to you. I'll add you to a group I'm in all about cleansing in this way to have support and accountability together.
People I know who have done this cleanse have reported:
1: Lowered Inflammation
2: Have more energy
3: Better sleep
4: Clarity of mind
5: Positive outlook
6: Greater flexibility
7: Weight loss
8: Freedom from addiction
9: Increased strength
10: Swelling and pain
11: Hair loss regrowth
12: Skin improvement
13: Allergies reduced
And simply just feel better.
1: Lowered Inflammation
2: Have more energy
3: Better sleep
4: Clarity of mind
5: Positive outlook
6: Greater flexibility
7: Weight loss
8: Freedom from addiction
9: Increased strength
10: Swelling and pain
11: Hair loss regrowth
12: Skin improvement
13: Allergies reduced
And simply just feel better.
Sounds good to me!!
So there you have it. Some simple ways to help the body detox and be at our best. Feeling stuck, or need additional tools to get you moving in the right direction? I have additional simple detoxing strategies from the ones listed here. Or maybe you just need some accountability and encouragement! Come join a group of like-minded people who want to do this wellness thing naturally, and encourage one another to stay the course.
When we get unhealthy buildup of toxins in our body (which unfortunately is most of us as modern 20th century people, given our environment and lifestyle), it’s no fun. These excess toxins can cause physical and mental health issues like chronic fatigue, headaches, insomnia, anxiety, joint issues, diseases, and inflammation that causes or exacerbates other conditions. Many of these toxins come from things you use or consume everyday like additives in food, chemicals in water, beauty, and personal care products, cleaners, and the environment. If you’re wondering why it’s so important to cleanse and detox your body, keep reading.
You’ll see that there are many harsh pollutants and harmful pesticides in our environment that should not stay in your body. Since our body organs work together to help eliminate these trapped toxins, it’s important that they’re all healthy and in working order. The liver, kidneys, colon, lungs, skin, and lymphatic system are especially useful and important when it comes to cleansing the body. When these organs are bombarded with toxins at a faster rate than they can do their work efficiently, then we experience these commonplace (but not normal!) issues.
You’ll see that there are many harsh pollutants and harmful pesticides in our environment that should not stay in your body. Since our body organs work together to help eliminate these trapped toxins, it’s important that they’re all healthy and in working order. The liver, kidneys, colon, lungs, skin, and lymphatic system are especially useful and important when it comes to cleansing the body. When these organs are bombarded with toxins at a faster rate than they can do their work efficiently, then we experience these commonplace (but not normal!) issues.
What is detoxing? Detoxification is really just a series of systems working together to neutralize and/or eliminate toxic substances. It’s always running in the background, working to keep your body functioning as it should.
Your liver is the main workhorse here as it works to process toxins and forward them to the “elimination stations.” These include your:
Kidneys (elimination through urine)
Bowel (elimination through feces)
Skin (elimination through sweat)
Kidneys (elimination through urine)
Bowel (elimination through feces)
Skin (elimination through sweat)
So “to detox” means to support what your body is already trying to do every day. You can do this many different ways (both passively and actively), but which I will touch on in a soon-coming blog post. Sign up for our blog updates so you don't miss it.
I hope the why behind what we share about and do is helpful! The biggest mistake I made was assuming this didn't apply to me unless I was experiencing issues like a described above. What I didn't know then that I know now is that I should have started these habits and patterns much earlier in life (something that I will definitely be doing with my own children). It would have saved me a lot of pain, sleepless nights, heartache, and the threatening of crushing my dreams. I am SO grateful that's not the case anymore because of changing ways I support my body's detoxing process.
I run a natural wellness group where we talk about detoxing and simple ways to add this habit into your lifestyle. You're welcome to join us!
Here are a few books about detoxing that may be helpful to get you started: Detox 101, Superfood Smoothies, 21-Day Sugar Detox, Detox Your Home, and The Superior Wolfberry. And as always, I'd love to support you personally on your journey. Contact me to join our natural wellness team.
Be blessed, live abundantly.
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