Greetings My Health-Seeking Friends! Hope everyone is feeling great . . . spring is coming and the weather is warming up here in northern Maine. Yippee! The spring birds are arriving in droves - earlier than usual this year due to the unusually warm weather nationwide. Their "cheeps and chirps and melodious songs" are indeed a blessing to the ears!
Today's topic may seem a bit unusual, but I frequently get e-mails from the readers of my blogs and books (see www.amazon.com and www.stephanietourles.com for more info.) asking about how they can naturally take care of their teeth, gums, and breath without depending on potentially toxic, commerically-prepared toothpastes, mouthwashes, and other types of breath fresheners. Beginning today, I'll present a series of blogs highlighting easy-to-make, herbal oral hygiene recipes that offer effective, tasty care for your pearly whites that also leave your breath fresh, and gums in tip-top shape. Enjoy!
The Negative Side of Commercial Oral Hygiene Products
Most commercial toothpastes contain artificial sweeteners or actual sugar, foaming agents, detergents, fluoride (a potentially toxic ingredient which an increasing number of people like to avoid), and synthetic whitening agents or bleaches, many of which, over the years, can wear down tooth enamel, erode gum tissue, and be absorbed into your body through the lining of your mouth. Most mouthwashes are colored with artificial dyes, infused with bad-breath-masking, synthetic flavors, and contain irritating chemicals and preservatives.
Why do most commercial oral hygiene products come with a warning on the label stating, "Do Not Swallow"?? Could it be that the ingredients might make you ill? I've never understood why a product that was designed to promote a clean, fresh, healthy mouth should come with a warning. I find that most perplexing!
The Benefits of Natural, Homemade Oral Hygiene Products
It's easy to make effective, inexpensive, tasty, nontoxic alternatives to standard oral care products. Though they won't taste as sweet as their commercial cousins, the flavors will grow on you, and you may notice that your mouth feels cleaner and fresher longer without the use of chemicals. Try a gentle, natural approach to maintain strong teeth and healthy gums with these recipes that I'll be sharing with you.
NOTE: If you have chronic bad breath or dental problems, see a dental professional.
Soda & Salt Toothpaste
This is a simple, inexpensive, odor-eliminating, tooth-whitening, and highly effective formula. It leaves your mouth feeling super-clean. Note: Cinnamon and clove essential oils may irritate sensitive gums and tongue.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, finely ground
- 1 drop of any of the following essential oils: peppermint, spearmint, sweet orange, clove, or cinnamon bark. Or, you may use 1 drop of tea tree essential oil if you have a gum infection that needs help in healing.
- A few drops of water
- Optional: 1-2 drops of thick vegetable glycerin for added sweet taste and smooth texture
Recommended For: everyone
Use: twice daily
Follow With: water rinse or mouthwash
Prep Time: approximately 2 minutes
Blending Tools: small bowl, toothbrush, or small spoon
Store In: do not store; mix as needed
Yield: 1 treatment
Method: Combine ingredients in a small bowl and mix them thoroughly with a toothbrush, your finger, or a small spoon until a smooth, thick paste forms. The paste shouldn't be too runny; it has to stay on your toothbrush.
Application Tips: Dip your toothbrush into the paste and use as you would regular commercial toothpaste.
Alternatively, if you don't want to try your hand at making any of the recipes I'll be presenting in this herbal hygiene series, thankfully, there are chemical-free, effective commercial brands available at better health food stores . . . such as Tom's of Maine (fluoride free), Auromere, Nature's Gate, and Weleda. Until next time . . . be well, happy, healthy, and here's to fresh breath and smooth, glossy teeth.
Note: This article is by Stephanie Tourles, Lic. Esthetician & Herbalist, and adapted from her book, Organic Body Care Recipes, Storey Publishing, 2007. The information is true and complete to the best of Mrs. Tourles' knowledge. All recommendations are made without guarantee on the part of Mrs. Tourles. She disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information. It is for educational purposes only.
Friday, March 16, 2012
Friday, March 2, 2012
Walk For Life
Hello Friends! Hope everyone is happy, well, and warm! It's March already - can you believe it? Yahoo . . . spring should visit Maine in about two months. Can't wait for the greening!
I'm going to share with you an article I wrote over 10 years ago . . . as it is still very relevant today. It's about the simple act of walking for exercise - it never goes out of style. Daily movement, such as walking (whether fast, slow, or somewhere inbetween), is sooooo important for your mental and physical health, and general wellbeing. I just can't stress it enough.
Walking Fun Fact: Speed walking at a 4-mile per hour pace works up a healthy sweat and burns approximately 400 calories.
Remember Sir Isaac Newton's First Law of Motion? It states, "An object at rest tends to remain at rest. An object in motion tends to remain in motion." So how does this physics law relate to you? Well, try thinking of it this way: A sedentary body has no get-up-and-go and can easily remain sedentary, but an active body often has an easier time continuing to exercise throughout life because of increased energy and vitality. The less you do, the less you can do. The more you do, the more you can do. Energy begets energy. Get it?
What exercise do I, and thousands of health and fitness experts, recommend to recharge your life and get the fitness ball in motion? Walking . . . and it can be done at any time of the year. Think you don't have a place to walk? Think again, my friend. I live in a rural locale with a climate that's very cold and snowy for at least 4 months out of the year - most years, that is. That doesn't give me an excuse not to walk. I simply bundle up and strap on my short-frame, aluminum snowshoes and off I go - whether in the woods, field, or on the golf course. If you can walk, you can snowshoe, so don't let the winter slow you down.
I really like to walk on the beach or mountain trail, but city parks, and local sidewalks are nice, too. If outdoor walking is not practical due to inclement weather or safety reasons, then try the local mall. Just give the mall management team a call and ask about their "mall walking" schedule. Lots of people do it, especially early in the morning. If you like to exercise at home, then a treadmill is a great way to get in your daily mileage while viewing the news or listening to music or audio books.
I like simple exercises and walking fills the bill. It's completely portable, very easy, and it's something you can do (and enjoy) for the rest of your life. If you invite a friend or two along, it becomes a pleasant and uplifting social event as well. If you've got a dog companion, he will enjoy (and benefit from) the exercise, too. So I'm telling you this . . . you don't have an excuse to sit on your duff and physically expand from lack of exercise. Walking is convenient, plain and simple. No more excuses . . . just get up and go!
Did you know tht brisk walking, in particular, is superior in many aspects to running and jogging in terms of overall health benefits? Why? First, almost everyone can walk. Second, your risk of injury is far less than for most other types of aerobic exercises. Third, you can do it almost anywhere. Finally, it's low cost; the only equipment required is a good pair of walking shoes.
Chinese Proverb: Be not afraid of going slowly; be afraid only of standing still.
Personally, I think walking is the best exercise for women. Running, jogging, jumping rope, and some other vigorous aerobic activities can be extremely jarring and damaging to the joints and breasts. But walking is one exercise you can truly start ultra-slowly and gradually build up to speed.
Walking Benefits For All Ages . . .
A walking program will help prevent and protect you from all manner of health concerns, such as osteoporosis, weight gain, problem pregnancies, menopause, stress, muscle loss, flagging energy, heart disease, and stroke. Daily walking will go a long way toward keeping you happy and healthy. It full engages your body, mind, and spirit.
1. Put in your time. 45 to 60 minutes daily: That's what your eventual goal should be. Sound like a long time? Well, once you get started, it's over in a flash, and, besides that, it's the amount of time necessary to spur your metabolism into burning plenty of fat and calories and give your heart a good workout. NOTE: If you're a beginner or have been sedentary for a while, start a walking program slowly, doing what you can without too much stress on your body. As you get stronger, increase your intensity gradually.
2. Go for the glow. Brisk walking makes you sweat, and with this increased perspiration toxins are excreted through the skin. Within a few weeks after starting a walking program, you'll definitely notice a more radiant, more clarified complexion.
3. Pump those arms. Don't just let your arms hang down by your sides as you walk, really swing and pump them. In addition to burning more calories and enabling you to walk faster, pumping will firm the pectoral muscles in your chest, giving it a more sculpted, rounded appearance.
4. A pelvic plus. With age (and childbirth) comes the tendency toward urinary incontinence. Walking will help to tighten the ligaments and muscles in the pelvic floor. Make sure to do your Kegel exercises or pelvic diaphragm contractions daily, as well.
5. Walking meditation. Your mind can be totally relaxed and void of all thought or clearly focused on a particular idea while you move along. I frequently carry a small pen and pad with me to jot down notes (ideas for my upcoming books). Walking can also be a time of spiritual renewal - especially if spent outdoors in a rather peaceful, tranquil location.
6. Climb that hill. Brisk, uphill walking, for a sustained period of time, expecially as part of your daily walking routine, can actually give you a better overall workout than jogging, running, or going to the gym for aerobics class. Walking uphill is your best bet for aerobic fat burning and anaerobic muscle conditioning. This activity will trim, tone, and lift your lower body, especially your posterior, in no time flat!
7. Mind your mood. Walking will improve your outlook on life, lift depression, and boost your self-esteem and confidence. The exercise-induced beta-endorphins that the brain releases during exercise will help lessen mood swings and bouts of anxiety.
8. Offset estrogen loss. With menopause comes the loss of heart-protecting estrogen, increasing your risk of cardiovascular disease. Regular walking can raise good cholesterol (HDL) and lower bad cholesterol (LDL), lessening the risk of disease.
9. Improve foot health. Walking is the number one exercise for your feet as well as your body. It strengthens and stretches foot muscles, revs up the circulation to help keep your feet warm, and if your feet tend to swell, helps alleviate that problem, too.
10. Treat your feet. Low on your body's totem pole, your feet tend to suffer the added insult of neglect. Many of you rarely give a thought to all the force they absorb on your behalf! No matter whether you are a casual stroller or serious power walker, your feet take a beating. Constant neglect lays the groundwork for tough, callused heels and soles that can crack, hurt and become unsightly. I suggesting using a refreshing foot scrub thrice weekly and indulging your "dogs" in a good, long, relaxing, hot foot bath twice a week. Moisturize daily to keep dry skin at bay and be sure to keep toenails trimmed and tidy.
NOTE: This article is by Stephanie Tourles, Lic. Esthetician, Aromatherapist, and Herbalist. Portions of this article were adapted from one of her many books, "How To Feel Fabulous Today!", Storey Publishing 2001. The information is for educational purposes only.
I'm going to share with you an article I wrote over 10 years ago . . . as it is still very relevant today. It's about the simple act of walking for exercise - it never goes out of style. Daily movement, such as walking (whether fast, slow, or somewhere inbetween), is sooooo important for your mental and physical health, and general wellbeing. I just can't stress it enough.
Walking Fun Fact: Speed walking at a 4-mile per hour pace works up a healthy sweat and burns approximately 400 calories.
Remember Sir Isaac Newton's First Law of Motion? It states, "An object at rest tends to remain at rest. An object in motion tends to remain in motion." So how does this physics law relate to you? Well, try thinking of it this way: A sedentary body has no get-up-and-go and can easily remain sedentary, but an active body often has an easier time continuing to exercise throughout life because of increased energy and vitality. The less you do, the less you can do. The more you do, the more you can do. Energy begets energy. Get it?
What exercise do I, and thousands of health and fitness experts, recommend to recharge your life and get the fitness ball in motion? Walking . . . and it can be done at any time of the year. Think you don't have a place to walk? Think again, my friend. I live in a rural locale with a climate that's very cold and snowy for at least 4 months out of the year - most years, that is. That doesn't give me an excuse not to walk. I simply bundle up and strap on my short-frame, aluminum snowshoes and off I go - whether in the woods, field, or on the golf course. If you can walk, you can snowshoe, so don't let the winter slow you down.
I really like to walk on the beach or mountain trail, but city parks, and local sidewalks are nice, too. If outdoor walking is not practical due to inclement weather or safety reasons, then try the local mall. Just give the mall management team a call and ask about their "mall walking" schedule. Lots of people do it, especially early in the morning. If you like to exercise at home, then a treadmill is a great way to get in your daily mileage while viewing the news or listening to music or audio books.
I like simple exercises and walking fills the bill. It's completely portable, very easy, and it's something you can do (and enjoy) for the rest of your life. If you invite a friend or two along, it becomes a pleasant and uplifting social event as well. If you've got a dog companion, he will enjoy (and benefit from) the exercise, too. So I'm telling you this . . . you don't have an excuse to sit on your duff and physically expand from lack of exercise. Walking is convenient, plain and simple. No more excuses . . . just get up and go!
Did you know tht brisk walking, in particular, is superior in many aspects to running and jogging in terms of overall health benefits? Why? First, almost everyone can walk. Second, your risk of injury is far less than for most other types of aerobic exercises. Third, you can do it almost anywhere. Finally, it's low cost; the only equipment required is a good pair of walking shoes.
Chinese Proverb: Be not afraid of going slowly; be afraid only of standing still.
Personally, I think walking is the best exercise for women. Running, jogging, jumping rope, and some other vigorous aerobic activities can be extremely jarring and damaging to the joints and breasts. But walking is one exercise you can truly start ultra-slowly and gradually build up to speed.
Walking Benefits For All Ages . . .
A walking program will help prevent and protect you from all manner of health concerns, such as osteoporosis, weight gain, problem pregnancies, menopause, stress, muscle loss, flagging energy, heart disease, and stroke. Daily walking will go a long way toward keeping you happy and healthy. It full engages your body, mind, and spirit.
1. Put in your time. 45 to 60 minutes daily: That's what your eventual goal should be. Sound like a long time? Well, once you get started, it's over in a flash, and, besides that, it's the amount of time necessary to spur your metabolism into burning plenty of fat and calories and give your heart a good workout. NOTE: If you're a beginner or have been sedentary for a while, start a walking program slowly, doing what you can without too much stress on your body. As you get stronger, increase your intensity gradually.
2. Go for the glow. Brisk walking makes you sweat, and with this increased perspiration toxins are excreted through the skin. Within a few weeks after starting a walking program, you'll definitely notice a more radiant, more clarified complexion.
3. Pump those arms. Don't just let your arms hang down by your sides as you walk, really swing and pump them. In addition to burning more calories and enabling you to walk faster, pumping will firm the pectoral muscles in your chest, giving it a more sculpted, rounded appearance.
4. A pelvic plus. With age (and childbirth) comes the tendency toward urinary incontinence. Walking will help to tighten the ligaments and muscles in the pelvic floor. Make sure to do your Kegel exercises or pelvic diaphragm contractions daily, as well.
5. Walking meditation. Your mind can be totally relaxed and void of all thought or clearly focused on a particular idea while you move along. I frequently carry a small pen and pad with me to jot down notes (ideas for my upcoming books). Walking can also be a time of spiritual renewal - especially if spent outdoors in a rather peaceful, tranquil location.
6. Climb that hill. Brisk, uphill walking, for a sustained period of time, expecially as part of your daily walking routine, can actually give you a better overall workout than jogging, running, or going to the gym for aerobics class. Walking uphill is your best bet for aerobic fat burning and anaerobic muscle conditioning. This activity will trim, tone, and lift your lower body, especially your posterior, in no time flat!
7. Mind your mood. Walking will improve your outlook on life, lift depression, and boost your self-esteem and confidence. The exercise-induced beta-endorphins that the brain releases during exercise will help lessen mood swings and bouts of anxiety.
8. Offset estrogen loss. With menopause comes the loss of heart-protecting estrogen, increasing your risk of cardiovascular disease. Regular walking can raise good cholesterol (HDL) and lower bad cholesterol (LDL), lessening the risk of disease.
9. Improve foot health. Walking is the number one exercise for your feet as well as your body. It strengthens and stretches foot muscles, revs up the circulation to help keep your feet warm, and if your feet tend to swell, helps alleviate that problem, too.
10. Treat your feet. Low on your body's totem pole, your feet tend to suffer the added insult of neglect. Many of you rarely give a thought to all the force they absorb on your behalf! No matter whether you are a casual stroller or serious power walker, your feet take a beating. Constant neglect lays the groundwork for tough, callused heels and soles that can crack, hurt and become unsightly. I suggesting using a refreshing foot scrub thrice weekly and indulging your "dogs" in a good, long, relaxing, hot foot bath twice a week. Moisturize daily to keep dry skin at bay and be sure to keep toenails trimmed and tidy.
NOTE: This article is by Stephanie Tourles, Lic. Esthetician, Aromatherapist, and Herbalist. Portions of this article were adapted from one of her many books, "How To Feel Fabulous Today!", Storey Publishing 2001. The information is for educational purposes only.
Monday, February 6, 2012
Burn, Baby, Burn: Power Workouts
Greetings and Many Blessings To All! It's mid-winter here in Maine and a rather mild, uneventful one at that. Still not much snow on the ground as evidence of the season, but we do have some treacherous ice that's hanging around preventing outdoor exercise, which is a real downer.
Speaking of exercise . . . I've been revamping my routine of late and am attempting to get the most caloric bang for my exercise buck - if you know what I mean. I'm a very busy person and need to get the highest attainable results in the least amount of time expended. Since I can't exercise outdoors right now, I'm doing power yoga at home and on alternating days, using my Total Gym (an amazing piece of equipment). I exercise semi-vigorously for 30 to 60 minutes per day. I've also rid my diet of all refined carbohydrates and concentrate on wild-caught tuna and salmon for my animal protein, plus beans, raw nuts and seeds, dark leafy greens and vegetables, green drinks, oatmeal with added walnuts, almond milk, and cooked apple, and fruit smoothies with added vegan unsweetened protein powder made by Spirutein "Simply Natural Original Vanilla". At 49, I'm seeing superior results within 8 weeks of doing this program. I'm much more toned all over, my skin is radiant, my perimenopausal "moody" symptoms are more even keel, and my energy level is much better. At my age . . . it takes a lot of work and continuous effort to maintain youth and a feeling of well being! But . . . it's worth it in the long run.
Go for the glow . . . all exercise, but especially semi-vigorous-to-vigorous exercise will increase circulation and blood flow throughout the body, put roses in your cheeks, strengthen the bones, improve skin tone, improve your mood, and in general, promote longevity. Daily exercise = maintained & retained youth!
Burn, Baby, Burn
Today, I'm going to share with you my top exercises that will get you in shape in no time flat provided your diet is in tip-top shape, too. The calories listed by each exercise are based on the energy a 150-pound person would expend in one hour. (I have to say this . . . but if you have been sedentary for quite some time, then ease yourself into a new exercise routine, such as slow walking, and work up from there as you gain cardiovascular conditioning.)
- Cross -country skiing. One of the best exercises for overall body toning, skiing at a 5-mile-per-hour pace, which is quite vigorous, burns approximately 700 calories per hour.
- Snow Shoveling. Try throwing away your snow blower and picking up a shovel - if your back can handle it. This exercise, performed at a moderate pace, burns approximately 600 calories an hour. Caution: Snow shoveling can be extremely demanding for arm and back muscles, so pace yourself.
- Rollerblading. This exercise (one of my favorites) will chisel the saddlebags right off your hips and thighs in no time (think Olympic ice skater legs and buns!) and give your heart a terrific workout. At a moderate skating pace, this activity burns approximately 600 calories per hour.
- Power Yoga. A more active style of yoga that encourages prolific sweating while toning and elongating your muscles and incredibly improving your mind-set. This form of exercise burns approximately 300-400 calories per hour.
- Mowing The Lawn. Using a push-style power mower or push-style non-power mower versus a self-propelled power or riding mower provides all-over body conditioning and burns approximately 450 calories per hour, just don't take too many lemonade breaks!
- Running. Running at a moderate pace, 5.5 miles per hour, burns approximately 650 calories per hour. I don't recommend running for women as it is too jarring to the breasts and other female organs (my opinion) and large joints in the legs. Speed walking is much better, I feel.
- Walking. Speed walking at a 4 mile-per-hour pace works up a sweat and burns approximately 400 calories per hour. Take a friend with you . . . it's more fun and the time passes much faster!
- Bicycling. Pumping those pedals at a moderate 10-mile-per-hour pace burns approximately 400 calories per hour.
- Domestic Goddess Work. This includes washing floors and windows, vacuuming, washing the car, ironing, hanging clothes out to dry, cleaning the bathroom, and other chores, and it burns approximately 250 calories per hour or more. Not bad for drudgery!
- Weight Lifting. Builds metabolism-boosting muscles. Depending on your routing, weight lifting has the ability to lift and tone every muscle in your body - just what's needed when you're over 40 and losing valuable and beautiful muscle tone by the decade. An hour of weight training burns approximately 300 calories. Roll that into aerobic weight training and you can increase the calories burned by nearly 200 or so.
- Mountain Climbing or Vigorous Hiking Up Hills. This is serious exercise - even more than running and cross-country skiing - requiring incredible muscular endurance, but if this is your thing, it burns approximately 500 to 900 calories per hour!
NOTE: This blog was written by Stephanie Tourles, Lic. holistic esthetician, herbalist, and author, and adapted from one of her many published books, "How To Feel Fabulous Today", Storey Publishing 2001. The information is true and complete to the best of her knowledge. All recommendations are made without guarantee on the part of Ms. Tourles. She disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information.
Speaking of exercise . . . I've been revamping my routine of late and am attempting to get the most caloric bang for my exercise buck - if you know what I mean. I'm a very busy person and need to get the highest attainable results in the least amount of time expended. Since I can't exercise outdoors right now, I'm doing power yoga at home and on alternating days, using my Total Gym (an amazing piece of equipment). I exercise semi-vigorously for 30 to 60 minutes per day. I've also rid my diet of all refined carbohydrates and concentrate on wild-caught tuna and salmon for my animal protein, plus beans, raw nuts and seeds, dark leafy greens and vegetables, green drinks, oatmeal with added walnuts, almond milk, and cooked apple, and fruit smoothies with added vegan unsweetened protein powder made by Spirutein "Simply Natural Original Vanilla". At 49, I'm seeing superior results within 8 weeks of doing this program. I'm much more toned all over, my skin is radiant, my perimenopausal "moody" symptoms are more even keel, and my energy level is much better. At my age . . . it takes a lot of work and continuous effort to maintain youth and a feeling of well being! But . . . it's worth it in the long run.
Go for the glow . . . all exercise, but especially semi-vigorous-to-vigorous exercise will increase circulation and blood flow throughout the body, put roses in your cheeks, strengthen the bones, improve skin tone, improve your mood, and in general, promote longevity. Daily exercise = maintained & retained youth!
Burn, Baby, Burn
Today, I'm going to share with you my top exercises that will get you in shape in no time flat provided your diet is in tip-top shape, too. The calories listed by each exercise are based on the energy a 150-pound person would expend in one hour. (I have to say this . . . but if you have been sedentary for quite some time, then ease yourself into a new exercise routine, such as slow walking, and work up from there as you gain cardiovascular conditioning.)
- Cross -country skiing. One of the best exercises for overall body toning, skiing at a 5-mile-per-hour pace, which is quite vigorous, burns approximately 700 calories per hour.
- Snow Shoveling. Try throwing away your snow blower and picking up a shovel - if your back can handle it. This exercise, performed at a moderate pace, burns approximately 600 calories an hour. Caution: Snow shoveling can be extremely demanding for arm and back muscles, so pace yourself.
- Rollerblading. This exercise (one of my favorites) will chisel the saddlebags right off your hips and thighs in no time (think Olympic ice skater legs and buns!) and give your heart a terrific workout. At a moderate skating pace, this activity burns approximately 600 calories per hour.
- Power Yoga. A more active style of yoga that encourages prolific sweating while toning and elongating your muscles and incredibly improving your mind-set. This form of exercise burns approximately 300-400 calories per hour.
- Mowing The Lawn. Using a push-style power mower or push-style non-power mower versus a self-propelled power or riding mower provides all-over body conditioning and burns approximately 450 calories per hour, just don't take too many lemonade breaks!
- Running. Running at a moderate pace, 5.5 miles per hour, burns approximately 650 calories per hour. I don't recommend running for women as it is too jarring to the breasts and other female organs (my opinion) and large joints in the legs. Speed walking is much better, I feel.
- Walking. Speed walking at a 4 mile-per-hour pace works up a sweat and burns approximately 400 calories per hour. Take a friend with you . . . it's more fun and the time passes much faster!
- Bicycling. Pumping those pedals at a moderate 10-mile-per-hour pace burns approximately 400 calories per hour.
- Domestic Goddess Work. This includes washing floors and windows, vacuuming, washing the car, ironing, hanging clothes out to dry, cleaning the bathroom, and other chores, and it burns approximately 250 calories per hour or more. Not bad for drudgery!
- Weight Lifting. Builds metabolism-boosting muscles. Depending on your routing, weight lifting has the ability to lift and tone every muscle in your body - just what's needed when you're over 40 and losing valuable and beautiful muscle tone by the decade. An hour of weight training burns approximately 300 calories. Roll that into aerobic weight training and you can increase the calories burned by nearly 200 or so.
- Mountain Climbing or Vigorous Hiking Up Hills. This is serious exercise - even more than running and cross-country skiing - requiring incredible muscular endurance, but if this is your thing, it burns approximately 500 to 900 calories per hour!
NOTE: This blog was written by Stephanie Tourles, Lic. holistic esthetician, herbalist, and author, and adapted from one of her many published books, "How To Feel Fabulous Today", Storey Publishing 2001. The information is true and complete to the best of her knowledge. All recommendations are made without guarantee on the part of Ms. Tourles. She disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Preventing & Treating Acne During The Winter
Healthy Greetings and Wellness Wishes To All! Hope everyone is feeling wonderful and on top of their game . . . if not . . . as the saying goes, "There's no time like the present", to begin to take good care of yourself by really paying attention to what you eat, how often you exercise, your stress level, and how you preserve and pamper that skin of yours. It's never too late to begin a quality course of action to improve how you feel, look, and project yourself to others.
Today, well begin a new blog series on topics of great interest to all . . . troubling skin and body care issues, increasing physical and mental energy, nutrition through whole foods, anti-aging protocol and benefits of natural sunscreen, raw food, low-carb eating, and the "Caveman Diet". I hope you'll enjoy the new blog "look" and future topics.
I have to interject this . . . before I proceed . . . My latest book on topically-applied herbal healing remedies is in the final stages of "heavy editing". As soon as I have a firm working title and release date, I'll let you know. It should be approximately 340 pages and contain 150 recipes for making your own herbal medicines to apply to your body, thereby improving comfort and wellness. If you liked my previous book, "Organic Body Care Recipes", this is to be the companion book. Look for it in December 2012 . . . I think!
For today's topic of discussion, we'll delve into the care of acne conditions that occur in the winter months. Acne in winter often needs different treatment from the acne flare-ups that occur in the late spring and summer.
Preventing & Treating Acne During The Winter
Acne is a year-round inflammatory skin condition and not simply reserved for the warmer, more humid months. Whether you suffer from facial, back, chest, neck, or shoulder acne - or all of the above - you should know that winter treatment of acne (especially if you live north of Kentucky where it gets quite cold and arid) is a bit different from the treatment of acne in warm or hot, moist, sticky climates where the skin can sweat profusely and the skin's sebum or oil flows onto the surface more readily. Here are some tips to help you care for your late fall, winter, and early spring acne symptoms:
- Cleansing Regimen: Cleansing a normally oily skin in the drier, cooler months of the year should be done very gently and with a slightly richer cleanser than you would use during the warmer months of the year when your skin is oilier and exhibiting a sheen or "oil slick". In the cooler months, your skin doesn't exude as much lubricating oil, so you don't want to strip it dry by using a harsh soap or high-foaming cleanser. Cleanse in the morning and evening with a natural, chemical-free cleanser that contains salicylic acid or willow bark (The Body Shop has a good anti-aging line that contains salicylic acid and other herbs and works wonderfully well on oily/acneic skin). DHC has a great olive oil-based cleanser and gentle soap that is excellent for all skin types. They also have a salicylic acid line especially for oily skin. Aubrey Organics (a totally chemical-free line) offers a superior herbal product line for normal and oily skin.
Gentle cleansing twice a day will help to minimize oil production and impurities from forming in your pores. The hand-held Clarisonic Mia skin brush, www.clarisonic.com is an amazing tool that I highly recommend to thoroughly cleanse your skin while also exfoliating. It is of professional quality, unlike Oil of Olay's rotating skin brush, which I don't recommend at all. If you do decide to get the Clarisonic brand, order the soft bristle head for sensitive skin. Acneic skin should be treated with tender loving care, not abrasives that will further irritate it.
- Moisturizing Regimen: The key is to use a non-clogging, oil-based moisturizer during the colder, drier months. Indoor heat and cold temperatures can lead to dehydration or surface dryness which can further lead to discomfort and skin damage - preventing your skin from holding in valuable moisture. A dry, flaky surface looks dull and also tends towards the clogging of pores which exacerbates acne breakouts. Moisturizers with hyaluronic acid, NAPCA, honey, seaweed, vegetable glycerin, or jojoba oil work will to keep skin soft and supple. Weleda, Inc., www.weleda.com has a line called "Iris" that is specifically designed for gentle care of normal and oily skin.
If you are "into" outdoor winter activities, please be sure to protect your skin with the appropriate moisturizer/natural sunscreen so that it doesn't get environmentally damaged from the assault of sun, cold wind, and dehydrating temps.
- Hydrating Regimen: Drinking lots of water, fresh-pressed vegetable juices, and non-caffeinated herbal tea is recommended to keep your skin hydrated from the inside-out. A properly hydrated body and surface skin will help avoid cellular breakdown and painful acneic flare-ups, extreme, irritating dryness, and pre-mature aging. Sufficient fluid intake will keep waste products flowing out of your body via the kidneys and colon and not backing up in your system, potentially looking for another exit . . . your skin. A constipated body tends to exhibit lackluster, irritated, pimply skin. Not a look anyone's after!
Misting your face throughout the day with a herbal hydrosol or flower water is a great idea, especially if you travel a lot by airplane or live in an especially arid climate.
- Exfoliation Regimen: Exfoliating regularly, say . . . twice per week, whether summer or winter, prevents dead skin cell build-up and clogged pores. Sloughing off dead skin cells will help keep your skin functioning and looking its best. The Clarisonic Mia, mentioned above, is my favorite way to exfoliate and cleanse my skin, but you can also use a clay mask, or clay-based scrub twice per week, as well. Exfoliants with ground oats, almonds, or jojoba beads are also gentle products that won't irritate. Mountain Rose Herbs, www.mountainroseherbs.com makes a delightful facial scrub that I especially like.
I hope these tips help you achieve radiant, smooth, youthful , comfortable skin during the winter months. Let me know if you have any other tips for caring for your oily/acneic skin and I'll pass them along to my readers. Until next time . . . be well!
NOTE: The blog was written by Stephanie Tourles, author of "Organic Body Care Recipes", Storey Publishing, 2007. The information is true and complete to the best of her knowledge. All recommendations are made without guarantee on the part of Ms. Tourles. She disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information. It is for educational purposes only.
Today, well begin a new blog series on topics of great interest to all . . . troubling skin and body care issues, increasing physical and mental energy, nutrition through whole foods, anti-aging protocol and benefits of natural sunscreen, raw food, low-carb eating, and the "Caveman Diet". I hope you'll enjoy the new blog "look" and future topics.
I have to interject this . . . before I proceed . . . My latest book on topically-applied herbal healing remedies is in the final stages of "heavy editing". As soon as I have a firm working title and release date, I'll let you know. It should be approximately 340 pages and contain 150 recipes for making your own herbal medicines to apply to your body, thereby improving comfort and wellness. If you liked my previous book, "Organic Body Care Recipes", this is to be the companion book. Look for it in December 2012 . . . I think!
For today's topic of discussion, we'll delve into the care of acne conditions that occur in the winter months. Acne in winter often needs different treatment from the acne flare-ups that occur in the late spring and summer.
Preventing & Treating Acne During The Winter
Acne is a year-round inflammatory skin condition and not simply reserved for the warmer, more humid months. Whether you suffer from facial, back, chest, neck, or shoulder acne - or all of the above - you should know that winter treatment of acne (especially if you live north of Kentucky where it gets quite cold and arid) is a bit different from the treatment of acne in warm or hot, moist, sticky climates where the skin can sweat profusely and the skin's sebum or oil flows onto the surface more readily. Here are some tips to help you care for your late fall, winter, and early spring acne symptoms:
- Cleansing Regimen: Cleansing a normally oily skin in the drier, cooler months of the year should be done very gently and with a slightly richer cleanser than you would use during the warmer months of the year when your skin is oilier and exhibiting a sheen or "oil slick". In the cooler months, your skin doesn't exude as much lubricating oil, so you don't want to strip it dry by using a harsh soap or high-foaming cleanser. Cleanse in the morning and evening with a natural, chemical-free cleanser that contains salicylic acid or willow bark (The Body Shop has a good anti-aging line that contains salicylic acid and other herbs and works wonderfully well on oily/acneic skin). DHC has a great olive oil-based cleanser and gentle soap that is excellent for all skin types. They also have a salicylic acid line especially for oily skin. Aubrey Organics (a totally chemical-free line) offers a superior herbal product line for normal and oily skin.
Gentle cleansing twice a day will help to minimize oil production and impurities from forming in your pores. The hand-held Clarisonic Mia skin brush, www.clarisonic.com is an amazing tool that I highly recommend to thoroughly cleanse your skin while also exfoliating. It is of professional quality, unlike Oil of Olay's rotating skin brush, which I don't recommend at all. If you do decide to get the Clarisonic brand, order the soft bristle head for sensitive skin. Acneic skin should be treated with tender loving care, not abrasives that will further irritate it.
- Moisturizing Regimen: The key is to use a non-clogging, oil-based moisturizer during the colder, drier months. Indoor heat and cold temperatures can lead to dehydration or surface dryness which can further lead to discomfort and skin damage - preventing your skin from holding in valuable moisture. A dry, flaky surface looks dull and also tends towards the clogging of pores which exacerbates acne breakouts. Moisturizers with hyaluronic acid, NAPCA, honey, seaweed, vegetable glycerin, or jojoba oil work will to keep skin soft and supple. Weleda, Inc., www.weleda.com has a line called "Iris" that is specifically designed for gentle care of normal and oily skin.
If you are "into" outdoor winter activities, please be sure to protect your skin with the appropriate moisturizer/natural sunscreen so that it doesn't get environmentally damaged from the assault of sun, cold wind, and dehydrating temps.
- Hydrating Regimen: Drinking lots of water, fresh-pressed vegetable juices, and non-caffeinated herbal tea is recommended to keep your skin hydrated from the inside-out. A properly hydrated body and surface skin will help avoid cellular breakdown and painful acneic flare-ups, extreme, irritating dryness, and pre-mature aging. Sufficient fluid intake will keep waste products flowing out of your body via the kidneys and colon and not backing up in your system, potentially looking for another exit . . . your skin. A constipated body tends to exhibit lackluster, irritated, pimply skin. Not a look anyone's after!
Misting your face throughout the day with a herbal hydrosol or flower water is a great idea, especially if you travel a lot by airplane or live in an especially arid climate.
- Exfoliation Regimen: Exfoliating regularly, say . . . twice per week, whether summer or winter, prevents dead skin cell build-up and clogged pores. Sloughing off dead skin cells will help keep your skin functioning and looking its best. The Clarisonic Mia, mentioned above, is my favorite way to exfoliate and cleanse my skin, but you can also use a clay mask, or clay-based scrub twice per week, as well. Exfoliants with ground oats, almonds, or jojoba beads are also gentle products that won't irritate. Mountain Rose Herbs, www.mountainroseherbs.com makes a delightful facial scrub that I especially like.
I hope these tips help you achieve radiant, smooth, youthful , comfortable skin during the winter months. Let me know if you have any other tips for caring for your oily/acneic skin and I'll pass them along to my readers. Until next time . . . be well!
NOTE: The blog was written by Stephanie Tourles, author of "Organic Body Care Recipes", Storey Publishing, 2007. The information is true and complete to the best of her knowledge. All recommendations are made without guarantee on the part of Ms. Tourles. She disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information. It is for educational purposes only.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Benefits of Professional Skin Care
Happy New Year, Everyone! Blessings of Health, Happiness, and Prosperity to all this upcoming 2012. May all be well fed and clothed, warm, joyous, and gainfully employed if that be your need!
I thought I'd start this year's list of blogs by discussing the benefits of professional skin care services. In my opinion, regularly scheduled skin treatments (monthly or at least quarterly at the change of the seasons) performed by a licensed holistic esthetician are as important to skin health as regular dental checkups are to healthy teeth and gums and regular chiropractic visits to balanced energy flow and structural comfort.
Want to undo the damage of time, stress, environment, and neglect upon your skin? Don't we all? Then, pay a visit to your local day spa or full-service salon and schedule an appointment with the resident esthetician (skin care specialist). If you have the time, try to book - at the very least - a full deep-pore cleansing facial and back treatment. While the esthetician can't turn back the hands of time, she sure can take the edge off your nerves and rehydrate and deep cleanse your skin, leaving it smoother, tighter, and more supple than when you arrived.
An Esthetician's Touch
Esthetics involves both creativity and psychology - it's not just about beauty and the science behind it, but also about instilling a feeling of well-being, health, and wholeness in the client. An esthetician's responsibilities to her clients include: assessing and meeting their emotional needs to the degree of her ability (even if it's just offering a listening ear); understanding their physical wants and desires relating to skin care; and being able to make the client feel as if he or she is the most attractive and confident person alive. She accomplishes this by promoting clearer, smoother skin, providing a relaxing upper-body, hand, and foot massage, artistically applying feature enhancing or corrective makeup, and giving her clients the pampering they need to feel good about themselves.
Before entrusting your skin to another person's hands, you may want to ask some questions about the esthetician and the salon:
- Does the esthetician have a current license?
- How many years of experience has he or she had since graduating from school? Try to find an esthetician with at least 2 years of hands-on experience.
- Is it possible to schedule an initial face-to-face, brief consultation with the salon owner and esthetician, prior to booking an appointment?
- Is the esthetician clean and well groomed, having short fingernails and hair that is up and out of the way?
- Is the salon neat and tidy? Does it have a professional setting?
- Is the skin care treatment room tranquil and inviting?
- Are the esthetician's tools organized and new or sanitized? Is there a clean headwrap, towel, and robe set aside for each client?
Benefits of Professional Skin Treatments
1. A complete analysis of skin type and treatment recommendations.
2. A thorough, deep skin cleansing.
3. Increased blood circulation to the skin through steam and massage, or hot towel applications.
4. Focus on current skin disorders, with potential minor problems nipped in the bud or future treatments discussed for more serious conditions. Conditions that can be treated by an esthetician include: minor roseacea, dry skin, oily or combination skin, acne, sun damage, hyperpigmentation (brown spots, skin discoloration), wrinkles, slack skin tone, plus more. An esthetician may also refer you to a dermatologist if she spots "suspect" sun damage or an irregularly-shaped mole.
5. Softened and hydrated skin.
6. Deep relaxation.
7. A self-esteem boost - you just plain look and feel better after a facial or body treatment.
8. Nutritional and lifestyle counseling with regard to achieving healthy skin.
Professional Pampering - What Your Skin's Health Yearns For!
Today's full-service salons and spas are a far cry from those of decades past. The better ones can be quite luxurious and plush, offering a complete sensory experience with myriad services including hair styling, coloring, perming, and straightening; manicuring and pedicuring; brow and lash enhancement and tinting; facials; back, foot, and hand treatments; herbal body wraps; the latest aromatherapy and anti-aging treatments; massage; body waxing; reflexology; and makeup application and instruction. More and more salons and spas now offer pre- and postsurgical skin care treatments and corrective makeup instructions.
Don't you owe it to yourself and to the health of your skin to partake of an esthetician's professional skin treatment offerings to boost your self-confidence, rejuvenate your skin, and put your best face forward everyday? I think so! If you can find a good esthetician in your area, value her (or him) like gold, she is your skin's best friend.
NOTE: This blog was written by Stephanie Tourles, and adapted from her book, "Naturally Healthy Skin: Tips and Techniques For A Lifetime of Radiant Skin", Storey Publishing, 1999. The infomation is true and complete to the best of the author's knowledge. She disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information. It is for educational purposes only.
I thought I'd start this year's list of blogs by discussing the benefits of professional skin care services. In my opinion, regularly scheduled skin treatments (monthly or at least quarterly at the change of the seasons) performed by a licensed holistic esthetician are as important to skin health as regular dental checkups are to healthy teeth and gums and regular chiropractic visits to balanced energy flow and structural comfort.
Want to undo the damage of time, stress, environment, and neglect upon your skin? Don't we all? Then, pay a visit to your local day spa or full-service salon and schedule an appointment with the resident esthetician (skin care specialist). If you have the time, try to book - at the very least - a full deep-pore cleansing facial and back treatment. While the esthetician can't turn back the hands of time, she sure can take the edge off your nerves and rehydrate and deep cleanse your skin, leaving it smoother, tighter, and more supple than when you arrived.
An Esthetician's Touch
Esthetics involves both creativity and psychology - it's not just about beauty and the science behind it, but also about instilling a feeling of well-being, health, and wholeness in the client. An esthetician's responsibilities to her clients include: assessing and meeting their emotional needs to the degree of her ability (even if it's just offering a listening ear); understanding their physical wants and desires relating to skin care; and being able to make the client feel as if he or she is the most attractive and confident person alive. She accomplishes this by promoting clearer, smoother skin, providing a relaxing upper-body, hand, and foot massage, artistically applying feature enhancing or corrective makeup, and giving her clients the pampering they need to feel good about themselves.
Before entrusting your skin to another person's hands, you may want to ask some questions about the esthetician and the salon:
- Does the esthetician have a current license?
- How many years of experience has he or she had since graduating from school? Try to find an esthetician with at least 2 years of hands-on experience.
- Is it possible to schedule an initial face-to-face, brief consultation with the salon owner and esthetician, prior to booking an appointment?
- Is the esthetician clean and well groomed, having short fingernails and hair that is up and out of the way?
- Is the salon neat and tidy? Does it have a professional setting?
- Is the skin care treatment room tranquil and inviting?
- Are the esthetician's tools organized and new or sanitized? Is there a clean headwrap, towel, and robe set aside for each client?
Benefits of Professional Skin Treatments
1. A complete analysis of skin type and treatment recommendations.
2. A thorough, deep skin cleansing.
3. Increased blood circulation to the skin through steam and massage, or hot towel applications.
4. Focus on current skin disorders, with potential minor problems nipped in the bud or future treatments discussed for more serious conditions. Conditions that can be treated by an esthetician include: minor roseacea, dry skin, oily or combination skin, acne, sun damage, hyperpigmentation (brown spots, skin discoloration), wrinkles, slack skin tone, plus more. An esthetician may also refer you to a dermatologist if she spots "suspect" sun damage or an irregularly-shaped mole.
5. Softened and hydrated skin.
6. Deep relaxation.
7. A self-esteem boost - you just plain look and feel better after a facial or body treatment.
8. Nutritional and lifestyle counseling with regard to achieving healthy skin.
Professional Pampering - What Your Skin's Health Yearns For!
Today's full-service salons and spas are a far cry from those of decades past. The better ones can be quite luxurious and plush, offering a complete sensory experience with myriad services including hair styling, coloring, perming, and straightening; manicuring and pedicuring; brow and lash enhancement and tinting; facials; back, foot, and hand treatments; herbal body wraps; the latest aromatherapy and anti-aging treatments; massage; body waxing; reflexology; and makeup application and instruction. More and more salons and spas now offer pre- and postsurgical skin care treatments and corrective makeup instructions.
Don't you owe it to yourself and to the health of your skin to partake of an esthetician's professional skin treatment offerings to boost your self-confidence, rejuvenate your skin, and put your best face forward everyday? I think so! If you can find a good esthetician in your area, value her (or him) like gold, she is your skin's best friend.
NOTE: This blog was written by Stephanie Tourles, and adapted from her book, "Naturally Healthy Skin: Tips and Techniques For A Lifetime of Radiant Skin", Storey Publishing, 1999. The infomation is true and complete to the best of the author's knowledge. She disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information. It is for educational purposes only.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Algae, Grasses & Herbs: My Favorite Herbal Supplements
Festive Greetings To All!
'Tis the Season for giving, sharing, and making merry! So, as my gift to you this year, I would like to share the list of my all-time favorite "green" nutritional supplements to restore your flagging energy and rev up your core vitality. Just so you know, I have no commercial ties to the manufacturers or herbalists who make the formulas. These are just my time-tested and trusted, go-to, vegan health supplements that I currently take (or take at various times of the year) to make me feel great - in lieu of synthetic vitamins and heat-treated, denatured minerals, such as those derived from powdered rocks and shells (calcium carbonate from chalk; coral calcium from dead, dried coral; and oyster shell calcium from oyster shells) - which are all very difficult for the body to absorb and assimilate.
I hope you'll give some of them a try. As with any food-derived supplement, consistency of intake is key. Follow directions on the supplement packages. Expect to see health benefits within 2 or 3 months. Here's to making 2012 the "Year of Wellness"! Blessings To All!
My Favorite Algae, Grass, & Herb Supplement Brands
1. Super Food Plus by American Botanical Pharmacy: A vitamin and mineral herbal, nutrient-dense powder concentrate containing algaes, grasses, seaweed, fruits and fruit peels, beet root, spinach, and nutritional yeast. Quite tasty mixed with fresh apple juice or grapefruit juice. For more information call (800) 437-2362 or www.herbdoc.com.
2. Sun Chlorella "A" by Sun Chlorella USA Corp.: Pure chlorella algae tablets made with chlorella that has had its cell wall 95% pulverized - so it is easy to absorb. A good source of iron-rich chlorophyll, carotenes, plant-derived omega-3's, and protein. My indoor cats love these little, dark green tablets (in lieu of outdoor grass). For more information call (800) 829-2828 or www.sunchlorellausa.com.
3. Pines Barley Grass Powder (& Wheat Grass Powder): Pines has been around for decades. They grow the raw ingredients and manufacture various grass and vegetable powders for nutritional supplementation. Prices are quite reasonable! For more information call (800) MY-PINES or www.wheatgrass.com.
4. Barley Max by Hallelujah Acres: This "Health Ministry" was started by Reverend George Malkmus back in the 1970's after he healed himself from cancer consuming only raw juices and pure, raw foods. His company produces fabulous barley grass, beet root, and carrot powders as well as publishes books, offers courses on raw food nutrition, and retails other health-related items. The website, www.hacres.com, provides an amazing wealth of information on natural living and a raw food diet.
5. Rachael Jean's Ultimate Green Drink by Empowered Herbals: This is one of my absolute favorite green drink powders that I take daily, without fail. It's a wonderful, tasty blend of grasses, algaes, nettles, beet root, apple pectin and fiber, and probiotics. For more information call (360) 301-3130 or www.empoweredherbals.com.
6. NOAH Capsules by Jean's Greens: NOAH stands for Nettle, Oatstraw, Alfalfa, and Horsetail - four herbs that contain a plethora of minerals to promote stronger bones, hair, and nails. I've taken these capsules for years and my fingernails are hard and hair grows in healthy and at a good rate of speed. I assume that my bones are strong and flexible, as well. For more information call (888) 845-8327 or www.jeansgreens.com.
7. Restorative Herb Powder by Woodland Essence: This is a deeply nourishing, endocrine supportive blend of Ayurvedic, Chinese, and Western herbs to restore balance, internal moisture, and well-being - especially recommended if you are a woman over 40 and feel fried, dried, and exhausted! I make an edible paste of this powder by mixing it with molasses, flax oil, bee pollen and a bit of ghee (clarified butter) and consume 1 or 2 teaspoons daily. The directions are on the jar. It has really helped to balance my mood swings and hormones that seem to be shifting a lot as I near 50. You can get it from Jean's Greens mentioned in #6 above or from Woodland Essence (315) 845-1515 or www.woodlandessence.com.
8. Restorative Root Powder by Avena Botanicals: This herb powder is very similar to the Restorative Herb Powder mentioned in #7 above. The ingredients are a bit different, but the benefits are basically the same. I use this brand for a while, then switch to the Woodland Essence brand for a few months, then back again. For more information call (207) 594-0694 or www.avenabotanicals.com. If you are ever in mid-coast Maine during the summer, make a point to visit the herb gardens of Avena Botanicals. So beautiful and uplifting. Deb Soule, the owner, teaches amazing herb classes on a variety of subjects, too.
9. "Raw Energy: 124 Raw Food Recipes for Energy Bars, Smoothies, and Other Snacks to Supercharge Your Body" (Storey Publishing, 2009). This is my latest authored book on how to add enzyme-rich, nutritious, raw snack foods to your diet. Granted it's a book and not a "green" supplement like those listed previously, but it contains 124 raw food recipes on how to make super-healthy foods that will indeed boost your energy and core vitality. This book makes a great gift for any of your "healthful foodie" friends!
NOTE: This article was written by Stephanie Tourles. The information is true and complete to the best of the author's knowledge. All recommendations are made without guarantee on the part of Ms. Tourles. She disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information. It is for educational purposes only.
'Tis the Season for giving, sharing, and making merry! So, as my gift to you this year, I would like to share the list of my all-time favorite "green" nutritional supplements to restore your flagging energy and rev up your core vitality. Just so you know, I have no commercial ties to the manufacturers or herbalists who make the formulas. These are just my time-tested and trusted, go-to, vegan health supplements that I currently take (or take at various times of the year) to make me feel great - in lieu of synthetic vitamins and heat-treated, denatured minerals, such as those derived from powdered rocks and shells (calcium carbonate from chalk; coral calcium from dead, dried coral; and oyster shell calcium from oyster shells) - which are all very difficult for the body to absorb and assimilate.
I hope you'll give some of them a try. As with any food-derived supplement, consistency of intake is key. Follow directions on the supplement packages. Expect to see health benefits within 2 or 3 months. Here's to making 2012 the "Year of Wellness"! Blessings To All!
My Favorite Algae, Grass, & Herb Supplement Brands
1. Super Food Plus by American Botanical Pharmacy: A vitamin and mineral herbal, nutrient-dense powder concentrate containing algaes, grasses, seaweed, fruits and fruit peels, beet root, spinach, and nutritional yeast. Quite tasty mixed with fresh apple juice or grapefruit juice. For more information call (800) 437-2362 or www.herbdoc.com.
2. Sun Chlorella "A" by Sun Chlorella USA Corp.: Pure chlorella algae tablets made with chlorella that has had its cell wall 95% pulverized - so it is easy to absorb. A good source of iron-rich chlorophyll, carotenes, plant-derived omega-3's, and protein. My indoor cats love these little, dark green tablets (in lieu of outdoor grass). For more information call (800) 829-2828 or www.sunchlorellausa.com.
3. Pines Barley Grass Powder (& Wheat Grass Powder): Pines has been around for decades. They grow the raw ingredients and manufacture various grass and vegetable powders for nutritional supplementation. Prices are quite reasonable! For more information call (800) MY-PINES or www.wheatgrass.com.
4. Barley Max by Hallelujah Acres: This "Health Ministry" was started by Reverend George Malkmus back in the 1970's after he healed himself from cancer consuming only raw juices and pure, raw foods. His company produces fabulous barley grass, beet root, and carrot powders as well as publishes books, offers courses on raw food nutrition, and retails other health-related items. The website, www.hacres.com, provides an amazing wealth of information on natural living and a raw food diet.
5. Rachael Jean's Ultimate Green Drink by Empowered Herbals: This is one of my absolute favorite green drink powders that I take daily, without fail. It's a wonderful, tasty blend of grasses, algaes, nettles, beet root, apple pectin and fiber, and probiotics. For more information call (360) 301-3130 or www.empoweredherbals.com.
6. NOAH Capsules by Jean's Greens: NOAH stands for Nettle, Oatstraw, Alfalfa, and Horsetail - four herbs that contain a plethora of minerals to promote stronger bones, hair, and nails. I've taken these capsules for years and my fingernails are hard and hair grows in healthy and at a good rate of speed. I assume that my bones are strong and flexible, as well. For more information call (888) 845-8327 or www.jeansgreens.com.
7. Restorative Herb Powder by Woodland Essence: This is a deeply nourishing, endocrine supportive blend of Ayurvedic, Chinese, and Western herbs to restore balance, internal moisture, and well-being - especially recommended if you are a woman over 40 and feel fried, dried, and exhausted! I make an edible paste of this powder by mixing it with molasses, flax oil, bee pollen and a bit of ghee (clarified butter) and consume 1 or 2 teaspoons daily. The directions are on the jar. It has really helped to balance my mood swings and hormones that seem to be shifting a lot as I near 50. You can get it from Jean's Greens mentioned in #6 above or from Woodland Essence (315) 845-1515 or www.woodlandessence.com.
8. Restorative Root Powder by Avena Botanicals: This herb powder is very similar to the Restorative Herb Powder mentioned in #7 above. The ingredients are a bit different, but the benefits are basically the same. I use this brand for a while, then switch to the Woodland Essence brand for a few months, then back again. For more information call (207) 594-0694 or www.avenabotanicals.com. If you are ever in mid-coast Maine during the summer, make a point to visit the herb gardens of Avena Botanicals. So beautiful and uplifting. Deb Soule, the owner, teaches amazing herb classes on a variety of subjects, too.
9. "Raw Energy: 124 Raw Food Recipes for Energy Bars, Smoothies, and Other Snacks to Supercharge Your Body" (Storey Publishing, 2009). This is my latest authored book on how to add enzyme-rich, nutritious, raw snack foods to your diet. Granted it's a book and not a "green" supplement like those listed previously, but it contains 124 raw food recipes on how to make super-healthy foods that will indeed boost your energy and core vitality. This book makes a great gift for any of your "healthful foodie" friends!
NOTE: This article was written by Stephanie Tourles. The information is true and complete to the best of the author's knowledge. All recommendations are made without guarantee on the part of Ms. Tourles. She disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information. It is for educational purposes only.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Energizing Travel-Ready Snack Food
Holiday Greetings To All! Today is December 1st, 2011 . . . and can you believe it . . . we had 10" of snow last week, yet it was 60 degrees yesterday morning and all has melted???? Strange weather this November in Maine, indeed! The entire month has been quite balmy, which is okay with me as I don't look forward to the sub-zero windchills which usually arrive in January. I'm enjoying this unseasonable warmth for as long as Mother Nature continues to extend her gift.
Speaking of the Holidays . . . do you ever notice that when you are in the Holiday shopping mode and traveling about town in your car in search of presents, that you get the munchies? I know I do. And, if I don't have some kind of nutritious, yummy snack food in my vehicle, then I tend to nosh on whatever junk food is convenient . . . be it at a local fast food establishment; grabbing candy and cookie samples at the mall; or downing too many vegan hot chocolates served from a quaint coffee shop. The calories add up with little-to-no nutrient value.
Today, I'm going to share with you one of my favorite portable snack foods that I tuck in my purse, backpack, or carry-on travel bag. When I get hungry and there's no healthful, satisfying meal in site anytime soon, I reach for a handful of this filling mix. It's easy to make, nutrient-rich, all raw, your kids will love it, and it's super tasty. Enjoy!
Mighty Herculean Trail Mix
I can't guarantee you the brute force of a mighty Greek god, but with regular consumption of this blend, I can guarantee you more than enough energy to sail through your busy day. This mix, with its plethora of unrefined, complex carbohydrates and fiber, helps keep your sugar level balanced, thus keeps the urge to binge on junk food at bay. Bonus: A handful eaten daily, followed by a large glass of water, will help relieve chronic constipation. Not a bad benefit from a tasty snack!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup prunes, pitted
- 1/2 cup dried, pitted cherries, sweetened with apple juice or unsweetened (dried blueberries or apricots can be substituted)
- 1/2 cup jumbo raisins or currants
- 1/2 cup raw walnuts, whole or pieces
- dash of ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
- dash cayenne pepper powder (optional, but does add a bit of "zing & bite")
- pinch of sea salt
Method:
1. Cut the prunes and the cherries in half, if large, and remove pits of necessary.
2. Combine the prunes, cherries, raisins, walnuts, spices, and sea salt in a medium bowl and toss well to blend.
3. Store in a tightly sealed ziplock freezer bag in the refrigerator for up to 6 months or in a dark, cool cabinet for up to 2 months.
Yield: 8, 1/4 cup servings
A Good Source Of: antioxidants galore, blood-building iron, zinc, copper, potassium, boron, silicon, phosphorus, manganese, magnesium, calcium, B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, natural sugars, and fiber
NOTE: This article is by Stephanie Tourles and adapted from her most recent book, "Raw Energy", Storey Publishing, 2009. The information is true and complete to the best of the author's knowledge. All recommendations are made without guarantee on the part of the author. She disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information. It is for educational purposes only.
Speaking of the Holidays . . . do you ever notice that when you are in the Holiday shopping mode and traveling about town in your car in search of presents, that you get the munchies? I know I do. And, if I don't have some kind of nutritious, yummy snack food in my vehicle, then I tend to nosh on whatever junk food is convenient . . . be it at a local fast food establishment; grabbing candy and cookie samples at the mall; or downing too many vegan hot chocolates served from a quaint coffee shop. The calories add up with little-to-no nutrient value.
Today, I'm going to share with you one of my favorite portable snack foods that I tuck in my purse, backpack, or carry-on travel bag. When I get hungry and there's no healthful, satisfying meal in site anytime soon, I reach for a handful of this filling mix. It's easy to make, nutrient-rich, all raw, your kids will love it, and it's super tasty. Enjoy!
Mighty Herculean Trail Mix
I can't guarantee you the brute force of a mighty Greek god, but with regular consumption of this blend, I can guarantee you more than enough energy to sail through your busy day. This mix, with its plethora of unrefined, complex carbohydrates and fiber, helps keep your sugar level balanced, thus keeps the urge to binge on junk food at bay. Bonus: A handful eaten daily, followed by a large glass of water, will help relieve chronic constipation. Not a bad benefit from a tasty snack!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup prunes, pitted
- 1/2 cup dried, pitted cherries, sweetened with apple juice or unsweetened (dried blueberries or apricots can be substituted)
- 1/2 cup jumbo raisins or currants
- 1/2 cup raw walnuts, whole or pieces
- dash of ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
- dash cayenne pepper powder (optional, but does add a bit of "zing & bite")
- pinch of sea salt
Method:
1. Cut the prunes and the cherries in half, if large, and remove pits of necessary.
2. Combine the prunes, cherries, raisins, walnuts, spices, and sea salt in a medium bowl and toss well to blend.
3. Store in a tightly sealed ziplock freezer bag in the refrigerator for up to 6 months or in a dark, cool cabinet for up to 2 months.
Yield: 8, 1/4 cup servings
A Good Source Of: antioxidants galore, blood-building iron, zinc, copper, potassium, boron, silicon, phosphorus, manganese, magnesium, calcium, B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, natural sugars, and fiber
NOTE: This article is by Stephanie Tourles and adapted from her most recent book, "Raw Energy", Storey Publishing, 2009. The information is true and complete to the best of the author's knowledge. All recommendations are made without guarantee on the part of the author. She disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information. It is for educational purposes only.
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