At Pura Stainless, concerns like these drive our core mission: to help you keep your family as safe as possible from commonplace household products that can be harmful. So, to help you understand your risks and spread awareness of this issue, we have started this discussion about what ‘BPA-Free’ really means and the dangers of ALL kinds of plastics. Plus, we are letting you in on what the actually safe options are for you and your family. So, keep reading to find out everything you need to know about these sketchy chemicals and the benefits of going plastic free.
So, we know that BPA has the potential to endanger your health and especially the health of your children. But does that mean that the BPA-Free label ensures your plastic items are safe? Unfortunately, no! Often, BPA-Free plastic is made of substitutes that have the potential to be equally if not more dangerous. This risk is especially high when it comes to other types of bisphenols such as BPS, BPF, BPB, BPZ and more. The use of these compounds are newer and, as a result, there is less available data to come to a decisive conclusion surrounding their risks. Ultimately, there isn’t significant research to prove that they are any safer than BPA. In fact, the existing evidence is proving it to be the opposite. Cue second gasp!
For example, in one study conducted with the help of a researcher from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 2017, researchers exposed cells to BPA, BPS, BPF, BPAP, BPAF, BPZ and BPB. The result? All BPA swaps displayed estrogenic effects. BPAF, BPB, and BPZ even posed worse effects! That’s some scary stuff if you ask us!
Dr. Nancy Wayne at the UCLA School of Medicine has done significant research on the effects of plastic on the endocrine system. Nancy warns that BPA-Free is a “marketing scam,” asserting that companies are swapping BPA-containing plastics for other dangerous plastics — all to boost their marketing. That means taking advantage of consumers' fears to drive sales of (still) unhealthy products, leading to more money in these companies' pockets instead of taking the more difficult, and expensive route of shifting away from using harmful materials altogether.
Just as concerning, many companies market their “sustainable” and “safer” products in misleading ways by highlighting their use of safe materials like stainless steel, glass, and silicone while proceeding to use petroleum based plastic for additional components of their bottles such as lids, handles, sip spouts, straw components, and even nipple collars and covers for infants! Not to mention, covering their steel bottles in pretty paints and powder coatings that are made of a not so pretty plastic-based endocrine disruptor.
You have likely already heard about the dangers of BPA, or Bisphenol-A, an industrial chemical and known endocrine disruptor that is often used in the manufacturing of plastic products and other common items. It’s power to potentially influence things like fetal development, puberty, reproductive processes, fertility, the metabolism, child behavior, cancer progression, and more has provoked a justified and widespread worry about chemicals leaching into the foods we eat and the beverages we drink — even, and especially, our water.
Exposure is as simple as touching worn or heated plastics and consuming food and drinks in plastic containers. Children often get exposed through hand-to-mouth or direct mouth contact with plastic items. However, the most notable concern is contact with plastics that have been exposed to high temperatures, which is known to significantly increase the quantity of harmful chemicals that are leached.
If you’re concerned, we know the feeling. In a typical American household, containers with plastic components are used daily for hot food or beverages, ending up in the microwave and the dishwasher. Even plastic straws with silicone tips and glass containers with plastic lids may seem safer than a 100% plastic product — at first. Until you realize, this too is a marketing scheme. They inevitably produce the exact same risks as a product made entirely of plastic. Even more concerning, children’s bottles need to be regularly cleaned, or sanitized at high temperatures — bottles that they bring to their mouths countless times everyday. We can’t forget, plastic lunch boxes and water bottles sit on school lunch tables on scorching hot days. You get the picture — and it’s not pretty!
If you have gasped more than a few times while reading this, or at least widened your eyes in shock, then you’re likely looking for a way to avoid plastics that very likely pose a health risk to you and your family. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that you can offer your children plastic free alternatives such as glass or stainless steel to avoid BPA, along with several other helpful ideas for how to reduce plastic use or exposure. Another great way to stay extra safe is to avoid canned foods and opt for foods packaged in cartons instead.
If you have gasped more than a few times while reading this, or at least widened your eyes in shock, then you’re likely looking for a way to avoid BPA and perhaps even the other, lesser known substitutes that may still pose a health risk to you and your family. The first thing to know is that you can detect BPA-containing plastic with the number seven written inside the recycling symbol. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that you can offer your children plastic free alternatives such as glass or stainless steel to avoid BPA, along with several other helpful ideas for how to reduce plastic use or exposure. Another great way to stay extra safe is to avoid canned foods and opt for foods packaged in cartons instead. If you decide to continue using plastics, you can limit exposure by avoiding heating them through microwaving, hot food and beverages, leaving them in the sun, or washing them in hot water.
Keep in mind when doing your best to limit exposure that brands can be tricky with their marketing. You have to look carefully for justifications for their claims. Don’t be fooled by brands that avoid transparency and specificity about all of the components of their products. Know that PP, PP#5, polypropylene, and Tritan® are all names for plastics. Plus, we can’t forget the other hidden hazardous ingredients, such as the paint on many popular stainless steel water bottle brands. Harsh cleaning products, weather, temperature, humidity, ultraviolet (UV) rays, and salt water can all compromise powder coatings and put your family at risk for coming into contact with chipped paint.
Know that “BPA-Free” and “Toxin-Free” don’t mean plastic free. Even BPA-Free plastics leach endocrine disrupting by-products. Watch carefully for popular brands that use stainless steel or glass but shift the focus away from their plastic lids and straws that mingle with your family’s food and beverages with every use. Perhaps most poignant: dishwasher safe and microwave safe mean safe for the product,not safe for.
If you are ready to start swapping your current hazardous items for safe and functional alternatives, “BPA-Free” water bottles and other household items are simply not going to cut it! 100% plastic free water bottles, toys, and kitchenware are by far the safest options. Look for brands that have no qualms about telling you exactly what is in every single component of their products, using “100% plastic free” and telling you that their products are made up of 100% stainless steel, medical grade silicone, glass — or a combination of those materials. Plus, be sure to avoid any products that contain nasty paints or powder coatings.
After considering the myriad potential dangers of plastics, you may ask yourself whether it’s even worth the risk purchasing products that contain any petroleum-based ingredients. And if you were to ask us, we’d respond with a resounding NO.
And that’s precisely why Pura Stainless was established — to provide families with fun and truly safe products that are as pure as your little ones. Everything we do is to help families like yours have the information and resources they need to avoid dangerous materials and to live a healthier more sustainable life. That’s why our products are truly 100% plastic free and are made from 100% stainless steel and medical grade silicone. We opt for customizable silicone sleeves to add personality to our bottles as opposed to hazardous paints and powder coatings. Plus, each product has been rigorously tested and are all Made Safe certified.
We hope our explanation on the dangers of the BPA-Free label and the benefits of going plastic free help your family better understand the very real concerns of plastic use and what you can do to protect your family. For tips on introducing your family to the plastic free life, or for more information and tips on health, parenting, and sustainability, don’t hesitate to check back in with our blog. To make the switch to the only 100% safe, plastic free water bottle on the market, head to our website to shop now at https://www.purastainless.com/.
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So, to help you make this spring break trip with your family the best and most eco-friendly one yet, we have put together a few of our favorite sustainable travel tips! Keep reading to find out how you can create a better world, life, and experience for your family this spring break!
Before you show up to a new and unfamiliar place, be sure to prepare in advance. Do your research and understand the area you want to visit and the challenges the locals, the wildlife, and the land might be facing. For example, look into whether tourism is helping or hurting the town you wish to visit and figure out how you can be a part of the solution rather than the problem. It can be as simple as if you plan to go on a hike, know what the trails are so you can stick to them and avoid creating problems or pollution. It is always important to know how to respect the people, wildlife, and the earth when entering their home.
Wherever you go, be conscious about where you spend your money. Think about options that you feel good about supporting. For example, rather than paying to eat at a large restaurant chain or stay at a skyrise hotel, consider where you can support small, local businesses instead. It could be opting for local food vendors, visiting the farmers market and cooking your meals, choosing tours run by locals with a mission, staying at a sustainable airbnb, or visiting protected areas such as national parks to help support them with your entrance fees. Sustainable travel is an excellent opportunity to be a healing force where you visit, rather than a harmful one.
While visiting faraway lands sounds totally dreamy, the air travel required to get there can have notoriously high emissions. Wherever possible, choose sustainable transportation options to help you reach your destination and to help you get around once you arrive. This could mean taking a train or bus whenever possible, renting an electric car over gasoline, or offsetting your carbon emissions. Not to mention these slower modes of transportation can actually help you enjoy your trip even more, slowing you down to really take in the sights!
Eco-friendly travel activities are some of the most exhilarating and beautiful experiences you can have! Plus, they happen to be a better option for the environment. So, while you're traveling this spring break, choose eco-friendly activities like hiking, camping, horseback riding, cooking, kayaking, cycling, or even visiting a farm! This is a great chance to get some movement in as a family, take in the natural beauty of your destination, and learn a little bit about the location along the way.
Traveling often means using a lot of single use items. This could look like take out containers, hotel soap bottles, travel toothbrushes, and plastic water bottles. But it doesn’t have to be this way! You can pack light and still opt for reusable items. For example, bring along your favorites using reusable lightweight products like bar soaps and a sharable toothbrush with removable heads that the whole family can enjoy. Opt to stay in and cook using local farmers market fruits and veggies rather than getting takeout. Use reusables to take your food with you and keep leftovers. And of course, bring along your favorite reusable water bottle, always keeping it on hand to avoid having to buy one that is single use and exposes your family to microplastics. We recommend Pura Stainless, 100% plastic free water bottles and reusable food containers to make your trip convenient, fun, healthy, and of course, sustainable!
At Pura Stainless, our mission is to provide families with the resources they need to live a safer, healthier, and more planet-friendly life. We hope that these sustainable travel tips help you enjoy your spring break to the fullest while also reducing the negative impact your travel might have. To get Pura for your family, head to our website to shop our eco-friendly travel products, like our 100% plastic-free water bottles to use on your next vacation.
]]>If we want to keep our children healthy and offer them a safe planet to live on, we are going to have to teach them how to be a part of healing the earth and preserving their health by avoiding harmful substances and excessive waste. One great way is by showing them how to reduce plastic use as much as possible. To help you get your family started, we have compiled our favorite tips on how you can go about introducing your kids to living plastic-free. So, let’s get to it!
It might sound simple but committing to start is actually huge! Going plastic-free doesn't have to happen overnight. It’s a process of using what you already have, donating what you can’t, and recycling whenever possible. If you’re worried about the health and safety of your kids, we totally understand and agree with you. So, go ahead and give away those plastic items when you’re ready and start replacing them with more earth-friendly and kid-friendly alternatives. As time goes on, you are likely to quickly find alternatives that you like just as well, or possibly even better than what you had before! And who doesn’t like saving money and having less trash to deal with?
Now comes the tough part. Getting rid of plastic waste and not bringing it back! Once old items such as toothbrushes, toothpastes, floss containers, soap bottles, and lotions, and are worn out, switch to plastic-free options. There are bamboo toothbrushes, plastic-free floss, and bar soaps and lotions too! Then, head over to the kitchen. Once you're finished with all of the single-use plastics in your kitchen, such as plastic utensils, plates, cups, cling wrap, never buy them again! Donate reusable plastics that you would typically use for kids and opt for safe, harmful substance free reusable and sustainable options going forward. Swapping these kinds of items might be a bit of a challenge for you at first, but for kids it is generally a simple and welcome transition!
Perhaps the most important thing you can do is to set an example and teach kids about the plastic problem. While it might be easier to help older kids understand by sharing the benefits of reducing plastic waste, kids of any age can learn and have fun through play! So, why not try to make a fun game out of it by having everyone in your household collect all of the plastic they use in a day? Get all the plastic together and each member of the family can see how much waste they created and what they were exposed to in just one day — even pets! Then, have a conversation about why this isn’t healthy and what you can do as a family to cut down on, or ideally cut out, plastics.
Now here’s the really really tough part: getting your kiddos to part with plastic toys in favor of safe, sustainable options. This includes going plastic-free when it comes to craft materials too! Luckily, sustainable options like wooden blocks and cotton plushies can be just as fun! Even though they can decompose much, much faster, plastic-free options are usually built to last far longer than their plastic counterparts. To cushion the tough experience, you can phase them out, donate the toys to kids in need, or swap toys with friends or family members so they have new things to play with. As you replace the toys with healthier options, take the opportunity to encourage your kiddos to play outside more and enjoy the beauty of a plastic-free earth. Help them appreciate the nature around them to motivate them to keep it and themselves healthy!
More time outside means more opportunities to show your little one what mother earth is made of — literally! Instead of buying a plastic wrapped package from the store, whenever possible try to grow your own plants. Herbs, flowers, even fruits and vegetables! If you have a small space, don’t sweat it! Even a windowsill herb garden or some countertop chia sprouts can show your kids that we can make things on our own in the home that are safer and healthier. Another wonderful option is to take your kids to a community garden and have them plant something of their own that the whole neighborhood can enjoy. Take note of the progress and when the time comes, use the plants to cook together using your own creations! Of course, be sure to store any leftovers in safe and sustainable plastic-free containers for later.
Now, it’s time to get your community on board! Go ahead and share the benefits of reducing plastic waste with friends and family by being an example of how simple and rewarding it can be! Start by inviting the kids friends over and only using reusable plastic-free plates, utensils, party favors, and decorations. This can be a great way to encourage their friends to get in on the plastic-free fun. Take it a step further by starting a movement in your social circles and your community by gently showing how fun, and even chic, sustainable and safe products can actually be!
Now this one is really important. Kiddos need a lot of water and nutrients to grow and thrive. And any parent knows breakable or lidless glass and ceramic drinkware or dishware is not going to cut it for most occasions. So, rather than a plastic tupperware and a trendy bottle with a plastic lid, get your child safe and sustainable items that they can use and grow with. Start by swapping out potentially dangerous water bottles that have unsafe materials that expose your children to microplastics. Pura Stainless has created the only truly plastic-free water bottle on the market, made of food service grade stainless steel and medical grade silicone. They are also the only bottles to receive the Made Safe® Certified rating. Kids need a truly safe option that is completely plastic-free that they carry with them through life. We recommend getting a Pura bottle for every member of your family to reduce waste, stay hydrated, and avoid exposure to harmful plastics.
At Pura Stainless, our mission is to provide families with the resources they need to live a safer, healthier, and more sustainable life. We hope these tips on introducing your kids to the plastic-free life help your whole family enjoy the benefits of reducing plastic waste. To learn more tips on sustainability, healthy living, and parenting stay tuned to our blog. To get Pura for your family, head to our website to shop the only bottle you will ever need at https://www.purastainless.com/.
]]>Let's start the celebrations with gifts that go beyond mere decoration. Choose reusable treasures like stainless steel water bottles, bamboo cutlery sets, or beeswax wraps. These aren't just stylish accessories; they're a farewell to disposable plastics, inviting a more Earth-conscious lifestyle.
Pura Stainless Steel Water Bottles
Bamboo Cutlery Set
Beeswax Wraps
Step into the world of sustainable fashion, where brands seamlessly blend fairness and green vibes. From organic cotton apparel to accessories crafted from recycled materials, a myriad of stylish options awaits, leaving a tasteful footprint on our planet.
Make your gifts truly unique by selecting upcycled and recycled gems. Seek out items crafted from repurposed materials – be it furniture reincarnated from aged wood, glassware born anew from recycled glass, or fashionable fabric creations given a second life. It's gifting with panache, offering both style and a nod to environmental goodwill.
Share the joy of nature with botanical gifts like plants or seeds. Indoor plants not only add a touch of elegance but also purify the air. Alternatively, opt for seed packets or plantable cards, guiding recipients into the realm of cultivating their own green haven.
Shift the focus from material possessions to experiential delights. Concert tickets, culinary adventures, or spa vouchers take center stage as the true MVPs of gift-giving, creating lasting memories without contributing to the clutter. It's a win-win, where fun meets functionality.
Pay homage to local artisans by selecting handcrafted gifts that embody uniqueness. Think bespoke jewelry, artisanal pottery, or captivating artwork – each piece tells a story while reducing the carbon footprint associated with mass production.
Indulge in the delight of surprises arriving at your doorstep. Explore subscription boxes dedicated to sustainability, delivering sophisticated treats such as organic snacks, zero-waste toiletries, or tasteful sustainable home goods. It's the epitome of style meeting eco-conscious luxury.
Unleash your inner artist and create personalized gifts that your entire list will adore. Whether it's a cozy crochet scarf, a batch of delectable homemade cookies, or a tear-jerking photo album, these handcrafted treasures provide a warm embrace while keeping environmental responsibility in mind.
As we transition into a more Earth-conscious lifestyle, gift-giving becomes an art form—an opportunity to spread positivity and drive positive change. By choosing gifts that seamlessly fuse style with eco-friendliness, we actively contribute to sculpting a more fashionable and sustainable future. Think of this guide as your compass, guiding you toward choices that not only bring joy to your friends but also benefit the Earth. Happy, green gifting!
]]>After a long (and fun) summer, we love the cool breezes and awe-inspiring colors of the change in seasons. Bundle the kids up in sweatshirts and create lifelong memories. When our co-founder was a young boy growing up in California his Maine-based grandparents would send him and his brother vibrant leaves pressed in a book so that we could enjoy a snippet of the east coast. Here are some fun outdoor adventures to share with your families!
1. Scenic Nature Hikes: It is hard to beat a nature walk or even a stroll through the big city in fall. Whether you're in a sunny spot like Santa Barbara, a hiking haven year-round, or anywhere else, find a nearby trail or park for an enjoyable adventure. Encourage your kids to soak in the season's sights, sounds, and colors and maybe challenge them to a race to the top of the next rise. Collecting leaves along the way adds fun, and a picnic stop keeps everyone fueled up.
AllTrails - Use this app to find hiking trails near you, complete with directions, digital maps, reviews, and difficulty ratings. https://www.alltrails.com/
2. Pumpkin Patch Fun: Get ready to have a blast at your local pumpkin patch! Let your kids pick their own pumpkins, and dive into the excitement of the harvest season. Whether you're in a sunny paradise or a place with all four seasons, strolling through the patch and choosing pumpkins is an adventure in itself! This hands-on experience not only fuels their excitement but also teaches them about nature, agriculture, and the joy of creating something from scratch.
3. Apple Orchard Fun: A visit to the apple orchard is a fantastic family outing. Teach your kids about apple growing and hand them baskets to pick their own. It's a hands-on experience that keeps them active while also offering the delight of healthy snacking and exploration. This adventure not only fills their day with joy but also imparts knowledge about where their food comes from and the joy of harvesting.
4. Leaf Raking Races: Turn leaf-raking into a family competition. Challenge your kids to clear the leaves as fast as they can or build the tallest leaf pile. And yes, a playful leaf-jumping session afterward is a guarantee.
5. Nature Scavenger Hunts: Create a list of natural treasures to find, like acorns, colorful leaves, or unique rocks. Take your scavenger hunt to a local park or explore your own backyard. It gets everyone moving and sparks curiosity about nature.
6. Bike Adventures: With mild fall weather, it's prime time for family bike adventures. Explore local trails, parks, or your own neighborhood. For added fun, use Strava to track your rides and discover fantastic routes nearby. It's a wonderful way to enjoy the season and stay active together!
AllTrails - Use this app to find hiking trails near you, and track rides with you family! . https://www.strava.com
7. Sports in the Park: Gather sports equipment like soccer balls, frisbees, or baseball gloves, and head to a local park. Engaging in friendly family matches not only introduces children to various sports but also fosters teamwork and healthy competition.
8. Camping Under the Stars: Fall camping is a unique and memorable experience. Whether you set up camp in your backyard or venture to a nearby campground, involve your children in the process of pitching tents and gathering firewood. Roasting marshmallows, sharing stories by the campfire, and stargazing add to the adventure.
9. DIY Leaf Art: Collect fallen leaves during your outdoor excursions and let your kids creativity soar at home. Leaves are fantastic for crafting – they can serve as stencils, painting canvases, or pieces for crafting leaf collages. This not only sparks artistic expression but also fosters a deeper connection with nature and resourcefulness.
10. Geocaching Expeditions: Embark on a treasure hunt like no other with geocaching, using GPS devices or smartphone apps to uncover hidden caches in parks and urban areas. Discover the thrill of exploration, all while uncovering hidden surprises in your city's nooks and crannies. For an exciting start, visit Geocaching to find adventures right in your backyard!
11. Stargazing Nights: As autumn nights grow longer, it's the perfect time to introduce your kids to the wonders of the night sky. Lay out a blanket, gaze at the stars, and identify planets and constellations. It's a relaxing and educational experience that'll leave them with a sense of wonder about the universe..
These autumn family activities not only promote physical movement but also create fun memories with your family. So, regardless of your location, embrace the season, bundle up, and head out on an autumn adventure! 🍁🍂
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Check out our guide on how to make them and why they are a fantastic choice:
Overall, fruit monsters are a wholesome, fun, and creative way to incorporate healthier options into your Halloween celebration while still embracing the festive spirit. Plus, they encourage kids to eat more fruits, which is always a win for parents and caregivers.
]]>Whether you already consider yourself a "yogi," or the term itself brings you some uncertainty, we invite you to learn some of the unexpected and life-changing benefits of this practice. From your mental health to your physical, yoga transforms your body from the inside out, all in a fun, safe, and empowering way!
It's common to wake up in the morning and feel tightness somewhere in the body, and typically, it's in our back. Yoga is incredibly helpful when it comes to alleviating pain and improving mobility, especially in those of us with lower back pain. The American College of Physicians actually recommends yoga as a first-line treatment for chronic low back pain. Start with some basic stretches in the morning, and eventually you may find yourself taking a class!
Try it! Cat-Cow Pose
Get on all fours, placing your palms underneath your shoulders and your knees underneath your hips. First, inhale, as you let your stomach drop down toward the floor. Lift your gaze and life your ears off your shoulders as you find a nice arch in your spine, like a hammock. Then, exhale, as you draw your navel toward your spine, rounding your spine like a cat stretching. Imagine pulling your shoulder blades apart and trying to glue your chin to your chest. Flow through these spinal movements with your breath, and notice how your spine relaxes!
Yoga is one of the most well-rounded and holistic approaches to your body's wellness. It not only targets building strength and tone in your body, but it also increases your mental energy, alertness, and positivity. You may enter class with distracted or negative thoughts, and leave feeling more grounded and at ease.
Believe it or not, a consistent yoga routine before bedtime has been shown to help get you in the right mindset and prepare your body to fall asleep and stay asleep. This is revolutionary now more than ever, as our daily screen times continue to climb, partnered with increasing levels of anxiety and chronic pain across populations. Trying to fall asleep and stay asleep is a difficult feat for many.
Our bodies need to be prepared for bedtime, and establishing a daily "winding down" routine helps to do that. This can include dimming your lights, lighting a candle, putting on your pajamas, brushing your teeth, and ending with gentle yoga.
Try It! Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose
Lie down in front of a wall, and lift your legs up to rest against the wall, keeping your back on the floor and your sit bones close to the wall. This pose helps slower heart rate, decreases blood pressure levels, and relaxes the muscles and mind. Let your eyes soften, and remain in this position for 5 to 15 minutes.
Yoga increases your awareness of your own body and how it responds to your movement. There are not many opportunities in our busy lives where we can stop and simply notice our body's sensations. Yoga helps build our awareness of where there is tightness, stress, and emotions in our bodies, and provides space to release that. It can feel very therapeutic, healing, and sometimes emotional to experience the relief of heavy pain or emotions stored in our bodies. Remember to be gentle with yourself as your grow towards better self-care.
Slow and intentional movements partnered with deep breathing increase blood flow in the body and warm up muscles. Channeling slow breath while holding a pose can build strength in the body, while also improving your balance and stability.
Try it! Tree Pose
Balance on one foot, while holding the other foot to your ankle, calf or above the knee (but never on the knee) at a right angle. Bring your palms together at your heart, and imagine gluing your standing leg and "tree" foot together to feel lifted. Find one spot in front of you to focus on that isn't moving, and see how long you can hold the pose. Don't forget to breathe!
Numerous studies show yoga’s benefits in arthritis, osteopenia, balance issues, oncology, women’s health, chronic pain and other specialties. Gentle or "slow flow" yoga has been shown to ease some of the discomfort of tender and swollen joints for people with arthritis, according to a Johns Hopkins review of 11 recent studies.
In general, stretching reduces inflammation in the body and aids in recovery. Typically, we only leave a few minutes to stretch at the end of our exercise routines, or don't stretch at all. This leaves our bodies feeling tight and susceptible to injury. The diversity of movements practiced in yoga strengthen muscles and prevents them from being injured via pull or strain. Yoga also increases oxygen flow through mindful breathing. Breathing is a powerful and often underutilized tool in sports and exercise.
Practicing yoga and joining a studio or community of "yogis" brings a sense of belonging that we all intrinsically desire. Life is better together, and it's normal to feel lonely in different seasons of life. Participating in yoga classes can ease loneliness and provide an environment for group healing and support. Even during one-on-one sessions or smaller classes, loneliness subsides as you feel seen by others and part of something bigger than yourself.
]]>We know it is fast and easy to simply ask the cashier for a bag on the way out of the grocery store, but is it more cost-effective and convenient than bringing your own reusable bag?
For those who are aware of the negative environmental impact of plastic bags (and other single-use plastic items), you are probably already bringing your own bag to the store (don’t worry some of the later steps may surprise you!). But, for those of us with a long list of to do's to tackle day after day, it can be difficult to remember to grab those reusable bags on the way out the door! We get it.
Hopefully it is helpful to remember that nowadays, not only are grocery stores charging money for their bags now, but reusable bags are also far easier to carry groceries in. We’ve all had those moments where we have tried to cram just one more thing in a single bag, and either the handles break or the bag tears right through your arms! Avoid the hassle and save your money by using your own bag for your sake and the planet’s!
Plastic bottles are very common and often only drank half way and thrown away. The amount of plastic waste generated from water bottles is astronomical… not even to mention they are extremely expensive. Fortunately, it is now commonplace for many businesses and storefronts to have water bottle refill stations, which makes it more convenient to carry a reusable bottle than its single-use plastic counterpart.
Everyone has experienced that feeling of being so thirsty, you drink the entire bottle of water you planned to have throughout the day in one sitting. If the only bottle you had was plastic, you either have to spend money to buy another or be dehydrated. Those aren't very great choices! Whereas, if you had a reusable bottle, you simply refill it! Owning a reusable plastic-free water bottle saves you a ton of money, helps eliminate plastic waste, and is far more convenient than having a plastic bottle. If you are looking for the perfect alternative bottle, check out our stainless steel bottle options!
Although we're turning in the right direction when it comes to straw use, there are many of us who still refuse to even consider using anything but a plastic straw. This is because typically, the only other options has been paper, which doesn't have the best reputation.
We fully understand the apprehension of a paper straw! When having a long lunch or dinner, seeing the straw slowly dissolve into your drink and become extremely soggy is far from enjoyable, not to say that some paper straws simply do not work well from the start.
Say "goodbye" to paper straws, and "hello!" to a stainless steel or silicone straw! We promise you, your stainless or silicone straw will not get soggy nor will it dissolve in your drink. It will be able to sustain whatever smoothie, juice, or liquid you're sippin'. Not to mention, a stainless or silicone straw is far less likely to break than the plastic straw many feel so strongly about.
One often overlooked contributor to plastic waste is item packaging. Several businesses are beginning to recognize this and opening ‘Zero-Waste’ stores - stores that eliminate harmful packaging entirely.
For example, instead of selling a 12-pack of small bite sized chips engulfed in a plastic barrier, the store may have the chips lying on a sanitary and environmentally friendly plate. This not only reduces general plastic use and consumption, but it also allows you, the consumer, to buy the exact amount you need, saving you money, cabinet space, and the risk of food waste.
Many of the ‘Zero-Waste’ stores are local small businesses that could really use your support. Spend time researching local eco-conscious stores near you, and pay a visit on your next run to the store!
An "at home" spa day may not be as relaxing as a day at the spa, but it is guaranteed to make you and your little one both smile, and what’s more important than that? These 3-ingredient recipes use only edible and non-toxic ingredients, so no worries if your kiddos sneak a taste. Of course, they could get a tummy ache if they eat too much of the honey & sugar scrub. Let us know your favorite recipe in the comments!
Fine grain sugar and honey makes a great moisturizing scrub. Using this scrub will slough away dead skin cells leaving your face or body feeling clean and radiant.
Try letting your toddler apply the scrub to your face with their fingertips, like they would finger paints. Gently rub in for 5 minutes, then rinse.
Ingredients
Another fun home spa treatment is an Avocado Mask. Check out our kid-friendly take!
Smash the avocado thoroughly, then mix the remaining ingredients in a bowl (we suggest letting your kiddo squish the avocado by hand). Let your little helper apply the mask to your face and leave it on for 15 minutes. Wash off the face mask with lukewarm water or, better yet, run around in the sprinklers! Have fun!
This 1994 classic portrays positive messages centered around family and love. While there are certainly some sad scenes, these pave the way for conversation about facing challenges and forming strong relationships.
Although this movie gives a Disneyfied perspective of Chinese culture, there are powerful messages about honesty, hard-work and challenging gender stereotypes. There are also plenty of references and jokes to keep the movie entertaining for adults.
WALL-E
If you are looking to show your little one the importance of sustainability, this film portrays a harsh reality that our planet could face as well as the fact that we can make a difference through our choices, such as to use safe, repurpose-able products.
This is a movie you will want to watch carefully with your child as it jumps straight into some darker scenes. You and your little one can use this film to learn about trust as well as to discuss healthy ways to deal with loss or separation.
As your child matures, it is important to discuss the big feelings they may be having. This movie can spark discussions on big feelings and watching it with your child may instigate healthy conversations about how our emotions are a part of who we are.
Your little one might already be taking on their own adventures, but this movie can provide them with a reminder to keep following their dreams, especially with people that they love!
This film sends positive messages about appreciating others (and oneself) for their individual gifts. It also provides an animated perspective into how waste and pollution can impact wildlife.
As your child reaches preschool age, they will have more social experiences and meet new people. This film demonstrates the importance of community and has multiple sequels that the whole family can enjoy.
We all know that parents are superheroes, and this superhero film is great for the whole family! This movie reminds your child to appreciate their special gifts as well as the unique talents of others.
There is no better way to inspire an interest in protecting Earth than by showing your little one the beauties our planet has to offer. This film may be better suited for children over 8 as it raises real issues currently facing humanity. You may find it helpful to be with your child as they are first exposed to these troubling realities.
Long gone are the days when date days were really date days. With those of us with kiddos slowly but surely taking over our calendars, even date night is hard enough to pencil in! Family time is important, as is making it on the carpool schedule and volunteer list at school, but sometimes, the "to do" list grows longer than you ever thought it would. *cue deep breath*
Even here, there is room for self-care and time with your spouse or partner. And we're here to remind you that date night is still possible! It might require some flexibility and an open-mind, but we can assure you it will be fun, rejuvenating, and even crucial for your relationship, in whichever season of parenthood you find yourself in. Take a peek at our ideas and decide which you'd like to try first in the coming weeks!
On a night when you have the house to yourselves, or even after the littles have gone to bed, treat yourselves to a DIY date night in the comfort of your own home. Is there a fun cocktail you both like that you could try crafting together for the first time? Or a dessert that brings back good memories? Even a gooey chocolate chip cookie can warm the heart and bond two souls together! Get creative and have fun gathering all of your ingredients, as you plan for a sweet but intentional night in together!
What relaxes you? Is it lighting candles and taking a bath? Or a massage with your favorite lotion or essential oil? Invite your partner to a DIY Spa Night at home, where you both get to treat yourselves, by treating each other!
Not only is this date night idea economical, it's also something that is wholeheartedly from you. Going out of your way to find what relaxes your partner expresses the care and love you really have for them, which can be easy to lose sight of in the busyness of life. Invest in your spouse or partner by tuning into what makes them feel most cherished and relaxed, and plan a night full of face masks, sweatpants, and self-care.
Whether you play a nostalgic board game from when you were kids, or you've picked out a new game to learn together, Game Night is a great way to connect and spend quality time. Game Nights remind us to not take ourselves too seriously, as we dedicate time to simply laughing, bonding, and being silly. This is also a wonderful idea for a double or triple date with other couples!
Sometimes, the best thing you can do for your relationship is to get out of the house, and get some fresh air. Whether it's a stroll around the neighborhood, or a planned hike together, let the conversations flow as the two of you catch your breathe and re-connect. Taking walks together allows for meaningful conversations to happen, and for gaining perspective. And hold hands while you're at it! :)
If you love practicing yoga, and your spouse loves pickle ball or making sourdough bread, make a "date" out of swapping hobbies to learn more about each other, and even about yourself! One of the most fulfilling parts of sharing a life with someone is being able to champion your person on in their own passions and hobbies. It makes it even better when you get to join them! Step out of your comfort zone as your spouse or partner teaches you a new skill or activity, and grow a renewed appreciation for who they are.
A little music goes a long way! Turning on your favorite jams together and dancing around the kitchen might be exactly what you and your partner need. You don't have to spend money to take a professional dance class, to have a good time. Even if you feel like you were born with two left feet, this is a guaranteed good time as you let yourself go and into the arms of your best friend!
]]>Coping skills are tools we can use to adjust and respond to difficult feelings. These tools can look different for each child, depending on their specific stressor or struggle. Sensory coping skills are wonderful tools to help teach our children how to tune into their own body's experience of difficult emotions and experiences, and to learn how to bring calm to their stress response.
You can quickly and easily teach your children these 4 simple and effective methods for self-regulation, and practice mindfulness together. Knowing how to self-regulate is a helpful tool that encourages higher self-esteem, healthier decision-making, and a more positive self concept in our little ones!
This breathing exercise is a very simple tool to help teach kids deep breathing. It is a breathing exercise that helps to focus your attention on the present moment, and calms down your heightened state. One of the best things about the Lazy 8 is that it can be practiced anywhere at any time! Follow the prompts below and encourage your child to use this tool at their desk, on the top of their hand, in the air, or wherever else feels effective for them.
Step 1: Start with your finger on the star
Step 2: Take a deep breath in and trace your finger around the left side of the 8
Step 3: When you get back to the star, slowly let your breath out as you cross over to the other side
Step 4: Continue breathing around the Lazy 8 until you feel a calm mind and body
The 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique is a wonderful tool for your child to use whenever he or she is beginning to feel overwhelmed, nervous, or anxious. It focuses on using a child's senses to help them regulate their emotions (self-regulate). This activity also feels grounding because it helps to bring you back to the present moment, and your attention becomes more focused on the here-and-now, and less on the anxiety-provoking content. When you feel grounded, you are better able to take a deep breath, practice positive self-talk, and make better decisions. The activity involves all five senses and is very helpful for connecting yourself to your body, which is a big part of mindfulness!
Think of...
5 things you can SEE
4 things you can FEEL
3 things you can HEAR
2 things you can SMELL
1 thing you can TASTE
Progressive Muscle Relaxation is especially helpful for our littles that experience heightened levels of worry and anxiety. This intervention teaches you how to relax your muscles through a two-step process. The first step is systematically tensing certain muscle groups in your body, and the second step is releasing the tension and noticing how the muscles feel as you relax them. The most valuable way to practice progressive muscle relaxation is by starting with your toes, and working your way up until you reach your forehead.
It's been said that the issues are in the tissues! Meaning that when we feel difficult emotions like grief, anxiety, and stress, our bodies can feel that in a variety of ways (i.e. headaches, lethargy, stomach aches). Progressive Muscle Relaxation helps to improve your mental state and tune into your body. It can lower overall feelings of anxiety, stress, and physical tightness and tension. It can also help reduce symptoms of insomnia and improve your sleep. Using this tool while trying to fall asleep allows your mind to slow down and refocus its attention to calming the body, instead of intrusive and troublesome thoughts that may be keeping you up.
Helpful examples provided by Anxiety Canada:
(Repeat on other side of body)
(Repeat on other side of body)
Create a "menu" of sorts with your child that's full of a variety of sensory tools they can use in order to cope with big feelings or an excess of energy. Collaborate with your child on writing them down and post them on the fridge or bathroom mirror. See our helpful examples below!
Squeeze a stress ball, play dough, or putty
Use a silicone "popper"
Play with a fidget toy, beaded bracelet, Rubik's cube, pipe cleaner, makeup sponge, or unfilled balloon
Bounce a ball
Pop bubble wrap
Shred paper - so helpful for dealing with big feelings like anger, sadness, and frustration in a healthy way!
Dance, stretch, go for a walk
Bounce on an exercise ball or trampoline
Go for a walk
Take a shower or bubble bath
Wrap up in a blanket, take a nap, use a weighted blanket
Watch a lava lamp
Brush hair
Encourage your child to try a few physical and sensory coping strategies at least once when they are feeling worried, anxious, or upset, before deciding if they are helpful or not. Everyone is unique and some tools might be more helpful for some compared to others. We hope these tools help your child feel more empowered and confident, as they practice self-regulation when they ride the wave of BIG feelings and emotions!
]]>Apple cider vinegar has recently grown in popularity, but it's been used for centuries in cooking and natural medicine. Apple cider vinegar is simply a vinegar made from fermented apple juice, but research shows it has a plethora of health benefits and properties. It's recently been recognized in the human health world as being helpful in boosting skin health and aiding in weight loss, though it also helps to lower blood sugar levels and manage diabetes. Not to mention, it serves as an antimicrobial and antioxidant agent! The benefits are truly endless. Dig deeper into the 6 major health benefits of apple cider vinegar, and you'll be grabbing for you bottle of ACV on the daily!
ACV is a powerful disinfectant and antibacterial agent. Fun fact: Hippocrates, the father of modern science, used vinegar to clean wounds more than 2,000 years ago. Since then, ACV has traditionally been used for cleaning and treating infections on the body.
ACV also serves as a food preservative, and keeps fruits and vegetables from spoiling. It might be the new natural way you to keep your food lasting longer and your fridge staying full!
ACV is commonly used as a remedy for dry skin and conditions like eczema. Naturally, our skin is very acidic and responds well to the use of ACV as a natural agent. ACV has been shown to help rebalance the natural pH in our bodies, including our skin, and can therefore improve the protective skin barrier, offering relief and prevention from skin infections and dryness. It is recommended to dilute ACV in a face wash or even toner spray, as it helps to kill bacteria.
Talk with your doctor before trying new remedies, especially on damaged skin. Avoid applying undiluted vinegar to the skin, as it can cause burns or irritation.
Heart burn and acid reflux commonly occur out of an improper balance in the pH levels of the stomach, or a lack of probiotics and enzymes. Fortunately, ACV is packed with these nutrients, and can help to ease the painful symptoms caused by heartburn or acid reflux. Simply add 1 tablespoon of raw ACV to a cup of warm water before eating a meal (especially tomato- or citrus-based meals) and begin to find relief.
The most effective and healthiest way to regulate blood sugar levels is to avoid refined carbs and sugar, but it's been shown that ACV may also have a beneficial effect. A recent study shows that ACV significantly lowers blood sugar levels, even after eating a high-carb meal.
ACV can increase feelings of fullness and therefore lead to eating fewer calories and losing weight. Simply adding or subtracting single foods or ingredients rarely has a noticeable effect on weight in the long run. With this being said, long-term weight loss is created by adopting helpful and supportive diet and lifestyle habits. Adding ACV to your daily routine is just one way to improve your holistic health and well-being! Apple cider vinegar may contribute to weight loss by promoting satiety, lowering blood sugar, and reducing insulin levels.
If you find your pearly whites not being as "pearly" or "white" as you'd like, try a natural remedy with ACV before spending time and money on teeth-whitening products and procedures. To begin using apple cider vinegar for your teeth, simply dip your finger or your toothbrush in the ACV and rub it across your teeth for about a minute. To follow, rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm water. Stay consistent with this trick and spot the changes, without having to ditch your morning cup of joe!
]]>1. Choose a Specific Goal
State what you want to achieve in the simplest terms possible! The more specific you can be, the more attainable the goal. Oftentimes, when we make our goals too broad or vague, it becomes difficult and unrealistic to actually achieve them. Start very specific, and you can always adjust as you go.
2. Write Your Goal Down
There's something about putting pen to paper that makes goals feel a little more permanent. Writing goals down helps to keep ourselves accountable and it's also one of the most accomplishing feelings to get to look back and remember what you've achieved!
3. Develop a Plan
This tip goes hand-in-hand with #1 as it relays the message that the more thought-out and intentional your goal-planning is, the more achievable and attainable. Give yourself time to think through and develop a plan for how to meet your goal(s) and allow for flexibility.
4. Remember That Change is a Process
Practice makes... practice! It takes time, energy, and developing new habits to achieve new goals. This is all a process that can feel uncomfortable, difficult, and challenging at times. When it feels hard, that doesn't always mean it's a bad thing. Sometimes the most challenging things in life make us the strongest!
5. Find Support
We're not meant to do life alone, let alone set new goals for ourselves. Invite in a few trusted friends or your spouse for support and accountability. It is much easier to achieve a goal when you have friends and family rooting you on and providing encouragement. Lean on others during this time and take the pressure off yourself to be your one and only cheerleader.
6. Renew Your Motivation
It's bound to happen that a few days, weeks, or months in, you're going to feel like giving up. Think about what would be helpful for you to renew your motivation during those times. Is it a phone call to a trusted friend? Looking back at your journal entry where you developed your plan? It's normal to not feel fully motivated all of the time, so think of personal ways to get back on track!
7. Evaluate
Give yourself permission to evaluate your goal and change it at any time. A year is a very long time! Your New Year's goal is not etched in stone (unless you're fancy like that) meaning, it's not permanent and unchanging. Let it evolve and adapt as you see fit, depending on your personal needs and aspirations.
8. Show Yourself Grace
Last but not least, extend yourself grace. Whether you frequently set goals for yourself, or this is a new endeavor for you, we all need grace when life becomes challenging and we're stretched to new heights and depths. You're already growing just *thinking* about setting new goals for the new year. Show yourself and others grace as you embark on this journey, and give yourself a pat on the back every so often!
More Tips for the New Year!
❤ 20-Minute Yoga Flow to Energize Your Day
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All of the recipes below use 50 drops of essential oil per 4 oz bottle. With this consistency, you're going to achieve strong room sprays in order to smell them throughout your home. If you'd prefer something more subtle, add just 30 drops per bottle using less drops of each oil listed in each recipe. You can always start with 30 and add from there!
*You can also diffuse any of these recipes in a room in your home with an essential oil diffuser!
Supplies needed:
Steps needed:
There are so many benefits to practicing yoga. This unique and holistic practice brings together your mind and body and incorporates breathing exercises and poses designed to encourage relaxation and reduce stress. It also helps to improve balance, support joint health, prevent back pain, foster mental calmness, and build strength. Show yourself some love by practicing this 20-minute yoga flow to re-energize your day and lifts your spirits. Crafted for all ages and skill levels!
Disclaimer: Yoga is a moving meditation and should never feel painful or forced. Throughout this flow, stay with the rhythm of your breathe and move at your own pace. If you ever find your breathe feeling short or strained, that is a good indicator to slow yourself down. Please restrain from doing anything that feels unsupportive or painful. Enjoy!
Point your knees towards the edges of your mat and drape your upper body forward over your thighs. Reach your finger tips towards the front of your mat and let your forehead sink into the earth. If you find tension in your lower back, bring your knees together.
Begin to find your breath by breathing into your nose for four counts, and breathing out your mouth for four counts.
Shift your weight forward into a Table Top where your shoulders stack over your wrists and your hips over your knees.
Breathe in and drop your belly to find your Cat pose. Shine your heart forward and arch your back.
Breathe out and lift your belly as you tuck your gaze towards your collarbones. Push the mat with your palms for a more rounded shape.
Move through these spinal movements at your own pace, adding additional movements in your hips or neck if it feels good!
Tuck your toes and lift your hips up and back towards the sky into a Downward Facing Dog. Spread your fingertips out wide and root your weight into your thumbs and index fingers to release tension out of your wrists.
Notice the stretch in the back of your legs and walk your feet side to side.
Stay with your breath! Take an inhale as you lift onto the balls of your feet and bend your knees. Exhale as you extend your legs back down and draw your chest closer towards your legs.
Tip toe your feet forward into a standing forward fold. Hinge at your hips and notice your foundation. Maybe rock your weight forward and back or side to side. Grab hold of your elbows and sway side to side - releasing tension out of your lower back. Shake your head side to side - let go of that tension! You can also bend your knees to allow more space for a stretch, or use a yoga block underneath your hands.
Plug into your feet and rise to a Standing Mountain Pose. "Zombie roll" yourself to rise as you stack your spine. Let your chin be last to lift!
Find yourself back into your Downward Facing Dog shape...
Step forward with your right foot into a low lunge and plug into your right foot as your rise into a High Crescent Lunge.
Reach your fingertips high and lower your shoulders away from your ears. Right knee is stacked over right ankle and you are high on your back toes.
Option: Bend your back knee to tuck your tailbone more so that your neck, spine, and tailbone are aligned.
Cartwheel your arms around and pivot your back foot into a Warrior 2. Right knee is stacked over right ankle and shoulders are stacked over hips.
This is such a wonderful and gentle hip opener and confidence-boosting pose! What are you protecting in your Warrior shape? Keep your arms strong and engaged as an extension of your heart and drive the side-edge of your left foot into your mat. Can you draw your inner thighs together to activate your legs more? You will feel lighter in this pose by doing so.
Reach forward with your right arm with an inhale. On the exhale, bring your right elbow to your right knee in an Extended Side Angle, and your left hand reaches for the sky.
Your gaze can follow your left hand, or can shift down towards your foot - what feels natural for you? You can also extend your right arm long towards the mat for a more advanced pose, but stay lifted on the left side, reaching taller towards your left fingertips!
Use your obliques to lift up and back into a Reverse Warrior. Paint the sky with your right palm and breathe into your right rib cage. Lower your right shoulder away from your face and enjoy the side-stretch.
Imagine the lateral sides of your body are like two rainbows! Allow a nice arched stretch for both sides of your body - right and left.
While you're at it, can you deepen the bend in your right knee here? Equal effort in both legs!
Cartwheel your hands down to frame your front foot, into a low lunge. Step your right foot back into a high plank pose. Shoulders are stacked directly over your wrists and everything is engaged here. Let your legs work just as much as your arms by squeezing your glutes and glueing your legs together. Lift your belly up towards your spine to activate your core.
Take a breath and shift your weight forward so you're higher on your toes. On the breathe out, lower down into a Low Plank Pose, just like a tricep push up! Hug your elbows into your ribs as you lower down as one unit. Gaze stays down so your neck is in line with your spine.
Flip your feet so the weight is on the shoelace-edges of your feet, and open up into Upward Facing Dog. Keep your glutes engaged to protect your back and shift your hips forward.
Shine your heart forward too... and smile! Stay lifted out of your palms so your shoulders are relaxed.
Untuck your toes and lift your hips up and back as you settle into your downward facing dog. Give yourself a moment to walk out any tension and gaze between your legs to allow your neck and mind to relax.
Step your left foot forward to prepare for a High Crescent Lunge and flow through the same sequence on the Left side!
After flowing through the Right and Left sides once, keep building blood flow and strength in your body by practicing each side two more times. This will be a total of three times on each side.
After your third round on the Left side, come into a Child's Pose. Come back to breathing into your nose, and out your mouth.
When ready, find yourself back in a Standing Mountain Pose. Plug into your left foot and slide your right foot up your leg into a Tree Pose.
Challenge yourself to not use your hands here and allow your foot to land on your ankle, calf, or higher. Glue your foot and leg into each other and spot something in front of your that isn't moving in order to increase your balance. Squeeze your right glute to open your hip more.
If you hop or fall out of the pose - that's okay! Yoga is a practice. Show yourself grace and allow yourself to step back into it and practice the pose for however long you'd like.
When you're ready, shake it out and practice your Tree on the opposite leg.
Option: Lift your arms towards the sky and lift your gaze for more of a challenge.
Benefits of practicing your balance:
Half Pigeon is a wonderful and yummy hip-opener! It can feel intense, so ease your way into this stretch and stay with your breathe as you notice the tightness (or openness) in your hips.
Come down onto your mat and tuck your right heel in towards your pelvis as you extend your left leg back behind you. Fold your body forward over your thigh and rest on a yoga block, your forearms, or all the way down on the mat.
Hold this stretch for 5-10 breaths.
Crawl yourself back up and switch onto the other side, at your own pace.
Shake your legs out in front of you and take a big breathe in as you reach your arms high towards the sky. With an exhale, fold forward, reaching towards your feet.
Allow a bend in your knees or place a block on your knees for more support. Remember, we never want pain in yoga. You don't have to look like these pictures to do it "right" - we sure don't look like this!
Slowly lie down onto your back and grab hold of your feet to find Happy Baby.
This is a really nice and gentle hip opener. You are welcome to stay still or invite a slow rock side-to-side for a different sensation and stretch.
Tuck your chin slightly to relax the back of your neck and begin to soften the muscles in your face as you start your cool-down.
Savasana is translated to "corpse pose." We know, a little morbid... but it's meant to represent stillness and completion. Completion of your practice! A time to invite softness and stillness for your body for a few minutes.
Savasana calms your nervous system and allows your mind and body to relax. There is no "appropriate" length of time to be in this shape. We recommend being still for at least 3 minutes, but if you have more time, that is wonderful! You can also lay on your belly, curl up on your side, hang your legs up on a wall, or bring the bottoms of your feet together... what feels supportive for you?
After you flow through this sequence of poses, think about how you feel and the calmness of your mind. You are welcome to journal, invite others to join you, and do it again if you'd like! You can adapt this flow by removing or adding poses that feel natural to you. We hope this yoga flow helps to energize your day and calm your body and mind.
Namaste🤍
*Thank you Yoga Journal for the wonderful images. Check out their site for more wisdom and tips on building your own yoga practice!
]]>For a deeper look into the importance of affirming your children and helping them build a strong self-concept, read our blog post, Why Children Need Positive Affirmations
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With school in full swing, who knows what kinds of germs and bugs are traveling home with your little ones. To keep your family protected without the use of harmful chemicals and fragrances, try making your own hand sanitizer this fall!
We use Aloe Vera in our DIY hand sanitizers because it is soothing to the skin and helps bind ingredients together to maintain freshness and ease of use. Take a look at our most favorite (and easy) DIY hand sanitizer recipes below and drop them in your kids' backpacks on their way out the door. These also make great classroom gifts for teachers!
Social media is a hub for great tips from parenting and wellness, to recipes for the best gluten-free, vegan, nut-free cookies you'll ever have in your life. It can be overwhelming to have this plethora of information right at your fingertips. When it comes to plastic-free living, fortunately, there is a lot out there. To help you find the best accounts with the best tips, we narrowed it down to our top 9 plastic-free instagram accounts to follow. You're not alone in making this world safer and better for yourself and your little ones! Follow these accounts for the support you need in your plastic-free journey.
The team of individuals, business, and policymakers at the Plastic Pollution Coalition never fails to provide relevant, real, and necessary information about the problem of plastic in our homes, oceans, and world. We have been following this account since the inception of Pura!
Dr Anita Vandyke is the helpful, fun, encouraging voice behind @rocket_science! She is also a...
Rob Greenfield is an activist dedicated to sustainability, equity and justice. He helps his followers out of the web of consumerism and destructive systems and into a life dedicated to love and service to our planet Earth. He inspires, educates and empowers you to be the change you wish to see in the world!
Georgette provides a soft and beautiful space where progress is much more important than perfection, and reducing plastic and food waste is a lifelong journey. For beautiful content embedded with realistic tips to reduce waste and plastic use on the daily, head to her page!
Follow our friends at @reducewastenow for easy, actionable ways you can help the environment. From how to easily make produce last longer to sustainable hair and home care - the tips are endless!
Our friends at MADE SAFE Certified have made it their goal to provide consumers with the safest products on the market. They do this by providing an intensive and comprehensive human health-focused certification for nontoxic products we use everyday. Follow @madesafehq to know which products are the safest and most ethical for your family.
Pssst! Pura is the only MADE SAFE Certified baby bottle on the global market!
If we're not friends on Instagram yet, what's the hold up?! We'd love to feature you on our page if you're ever "out and about" with your Pura bottle or snack cup. Even if you're lounging at home staying hydrated, post it and tag us! Follow us on IG to stay in the know on local and global news around plastics and safety.
]]>School might be starting soon, but the fun doesn't have to end! Start school with your best foot forward with the most sustainable and safe bottles on the market.
Looking for a new bottle for the school year? Our new sleeves feature a calming Scandinavian color palette in sippy, straw, and sport mini bottles! We also crafted sleeves with an extra level of fun for your extra silly little one, featuring little monsters and playful foxes. Spot your new favorite below and get it just in time for the first day of school!
The Playful Fox 11oz sippy cup is the ideal transition for your toddler when he or she is ready to move away from an infant bottle. Like all products in the Kiki line, the sippy bottle is 100% plastic-free so you can be sure you are getting the safest, BPA-free and toxin-free bottle on the market.
The sippy bottle also features our patented stainless steel lid design that allows the bottle to be used with all Pura tops, including the silicone straw, flat cap, or Big Mouth® sport top. This means your little one can keep their fox friends close by for years to come! Plus, if your big boy or girl is likely to have a little brother or sister, the sippy can be seamlessly converted into an infant bottle by swapping the spout for one of our silicone Natural Vent Nipples™!
This bottle is shatterproof and releases zero toxins into your child’s cup. And we have the independent test reports to back it up! Say hello to your new fox friends here!
The 11oz Pura Sport Jr. bottle is the ideal bottle for Pre-K to elementary school kids. Our 100% medical-grade silicone Big Mouth® Sport Top eliminates distracting drinking or lid removal noises of traditional bottles making them a teacher’s favorite!
True to our plastic-free mission, the Pura Sport Jr. bottle is 100% plastic-free unlike other bottles that use plastic sport tops. The little monster friends on your new bottle will follow your little one through elementary school, soccer practice, piano lessons, and everything in between!
This sleeve is compatible with all Pura lids including our plastic-free nipple, sippy, and straw. With Pura, you can be sure you are getting the safest (and silliest), BPA/BPS-free and MADE SAFE Certified bottle on the market. Say hello to your new monster friends before they run out!
❤ Check out our new Rose and Mint sleeves!
❤ My-My Silicone line is finally here!
❤ The Science Behind the World's Only MADE SAFE® Bottles
Pura Stainless was conceived with a simple vision… to provide the safest and most adaptable juvenile feeding and adult hydration solutions to consumers around the world. But merely saying one offers “safe” bottles has become all too common.
We are happy that the conundrum of safe bottles (and other products) is finally being assessed in a quantitative manner by our friends at Made Safe®, an independent third party
Made Safe® is America’s first nontoxic seal for products we use every day, from baby to personal care to household and beyond. The Made Safe® Certified seal solves the chemical conundrum that has vexed consumers for decades!
The team at Made Safe® pioneered the Made Safe® Screening Process to determine that
and have been vetted by an independent third party to ensure they are safe for human health.
We are pleased with the thorough and intentional steps of this screening process to ensure the safety and well-being of our customers. Learn more about our relationship with Made Safe® here!
We live in a world of unprecedented toxic exposure. A world where babies are born pre-polluted, exposed to a "cocktail" of harmful chemicals in utero. A world where diseases linked to toxic chemicals like cancer, auto-immune disorders, early-onset puberty, infertility, Alzheimers, ADHD, diabetes, and obesity are on the rise.
Why is this happening? How is it even possible that chemicals linked to serious health problems are in the things we use every day?
The popularity and convenience of plastic amazed Americans in the 1950’s and, over the years, the material has become almost inescapable in children’s products. Yet, scientific research on the dangers of plastic to our health and to the health of our planet continues to grow. Studies now show the presence of microplastics in our blood and in the blood of toddlers; arguably due to the use of plastic toys, bottles, and cups… It is clear that we need to embrace change.
It may be hard to imagine your child’s life without plastic. Fortunately,
Over the past 5 years, more products began being produced from silicone. So, there is no better time than now to put your plastic sippies and snack cups to bed permanently!
Silicone can be boiled and used over and over without the chemical and toxin release that occurs when plastic is exposed to hot temperatures and environments. It is also safe for food storage and drinkware. Meaning, you don’t need to fear being exposed to harmful chemicals and toxins when your family uses products made with reliable, medical-grade silicone.
Silicone can mimic some of plastic’s beneficial characteristics, like having a soft surface, durability, and fun colors, but without the petroleum-based toxins. This was at the forefront of our minds when we launched our 100% plastic-free Kiki® bottle line back in 2008. With time, we became known for our stainless steel bottles in over 40 countries. We are now excited to offer an exclusive collection of 100% silicone sippy cups, training cups, and snack cups!
This means, ZERO plastic! And like all Pura products, the my-my™ line
The new line also features a calming Scandinavian color palette and modern styling. Soft colors like Rose, Mint, and Moss are the perfect addition to your pantry as you clear out your plastic sippy and straw cups. Our new my-my™ line offers lovely, safe, and functional baby products so we can all enjoy a beautiful, safe, and plastic-free future together!
Interested in Learning More?
❤ Breaking Health News: Microplastics Found in Human Blood for First Time
]]>The news on plastic continues to worsen. This week, for the very first time, it was released that plastic was detected in human blood. The discovery found that
We already knew that plastic continues to have toxic effects in our environment, as it finds its way into the air we breathe, the oceans we swim in, and even the food we eat on a daily basis. From the summits of our highest mountains to the ocean floor, the earth is contaminated with these tiny particles known as microplastics. But we are now discovering it inside our blood and feces.
Professor Dick Vethaak, an ecotoxicologist at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in the Netherlands urges our community to proceed with caution as he discloses his findings…
He goes on to say that it has already been found that
compared to adults, and babies fed with plastic bottles swallow millions of microplastic particles a day. Infants and young children have a greater risk of chemical and plastic particle exposure through toys, utensils, bottles, and even certain fabrics and carpet. This is scary.
“A recent study found that microplastics can latch on to the outer membranes of red blood cells and may limit their ability to transport oxygen. The particles have also been found in the placentas of pregnant women,” while the EU is funding research to be done on the impact of microplastics on fetuses, and the immune system.
Plastic production, therefore pollution, is set to double by 2040. With the recent
but it will take society as a whole to contribute to ecological healing. Ending the chronic consequences of plastic pollution on our planet, and now in our bodies, will lead to a healthier and cleaner world for our children.
There is still a lot of work to be done. Are these microplastic particles getting past the blood-brain barrier? How do we know if they’re accessing major organs? How are fetuses protected from this risk? Questions like this are being posed by researchers all over the world, and funding is being raised to continue the research. We have a right to know the harmful effects plastic has on our bodies, so we can do something about it!
Why take the risk when it comes to plastic? Our solution:
Pura was founded in 2008, but our idea was ahead of its time. As parents ourselves, we know there is nothing more important than safety. That’s why we continue to craft all of our products exclusively from food-grade stainless steel and medical-grade silicone, translating to products for you and your family that are
Pura has been in the forefront of the plastic-free product market. Since our conception, Dr. Nancy Wayne at the UCLA School of Medicine has studied the effects of plastic on the endocrine system, calling
and goes further to say that companies are swapping BPA-based plastic for other plastics that are just bad - all in the name of marketing. Furthermore, in July 2018, the American Academy of Pediatrics released a report discussing the hazards of common food additives as well as the chemicals that leach from plastic food containers.
It is fair to say the news on plastic just continues to get worse… from toxicity issues to environmental concerns to microplastics in the food we eat,
We certainly are not alone in our work against the dangers of plastic. As the pioneer in plastic-free products,
MADE SAFE™ and MADE SAFE Certified™, America’s first comprehensive human health certification to cross consumer product categories, is a nonprofit with the goal of making it possible for consumers to easily find safe products. We are elated to report that Pura products have been certified by MADE SAFE™ the only such bottles on the global market to achieve this status.
There is no better time than now to wave goodbye to plastic in your homes, in your children’s mouths, and now in your body and blood. Take control of your health, foster a cleaner lifestyle for you and your loved ones, and join us in an effort to rid ourselves of plastic!
References
https://www.emergencyemail.org/newsemergency/anmviewer.asp?a=28277&z=58
https://www.independent.co.uk/climate-change/babies-infants-adults-microplastics-study-b1925240.html
]]>Eco-friendly rentals are popular and available in Southern California. Finding the one with the most Earth-friendly features saves you money on your energy bills while you are helping the environment. Here are the features to look for in a green rental unit.
Research shows that in the U.S., 29% of greenhouse gas emissions come from transportation. If you don't work out of your home, look for a place that is a short commute to the office. Ideally, the best approach is walkable to allow you to enjoy the California sunshine to and from your job. If that's not possible, aim for no more than a 10-mile drive or try out public transportation to decrease your carbon emissions. Look for a rental close to the stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues you love to frequent as well.
Check the kitchen appliances to make sure they're energy-star rated to use the least amount of power. Ask if the dishwasher is designed to use 4 gallons or less of water on every load. Look to see if the kitchen has a reverse osmosis water filtering tap for you to use to fill your Pura bottle with drinking water. Check the laundry room for water-saving front-loading washing machines and an energy-efficient dryer. Look for a solar water heater or a tankless version that warms the water more efficiently.
Double pane windows with a low emissivity coating block much of the external heat while still allowing you to enjoy the view and sunlight. In addition, they keep interior rooms at a comfortable and consistent temperature.
All homes and three-story high apartment and condominium buildings built after January 2020 are required by the California solar mandate to have solar panels. Renting one of these new homes or buildings gives you the advantages of solar power. You can also find older properties that are outfitted for solar. Many Santa Barbara landlords install solar panels on their existing rental homes and apartment complexes to make their properties carbon neutral.
There are eco-friendly upgrades you can do yourself to help the environment.
Search online for an eco-friendly local moving company that uses bio-fuel trucks and reusable moving boxes. If you have large pieces of furniture to move, look for professional movers who are qualified for the task. Read reviews on sites like Angi.com to evaluate companies before contacting them to discuss your needs and get a quote. If you're trying to keep costs down, search for companies offering credits or deals to customers.
You can do your part to help the environment by looking for a home, apartment or condominium to rent that is loaded with these eco-friendly features. Choosing one that is close to your office, shopping and entertainment venues helps you cut down on your carbon emissions as well.
]]>There is no doubt that the impacts of plastic pollution go beyond what we see on the surface. “The impacts of plastic production and pollution on the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature loss and pollution are a catastrophe in the making, the UN agency said, with exposure to plastics harming human health, and potentially affecting fertility, hormonal, metabolic and neurological activity, while open burning of plastics contributes to air pollution.”
But... hope is not lost!
According to Norway’s Minister for Climate and the Environment, Espen Barth Eide, “plastic pollution has grown into an epidemic.” But with the UN’s resolution, “we are officially on track for a cure.”
The UN’s resolution to end plastic pollution, which will eventually produce a legally binding instrument, will address alternative ways to design reusable and recyclable products and materials, optimize the lifecycle of plastics, and call on the collaboration of international partnerships and agreements to facilitate access to technology, in order to allow the revolution to come to fruition.
“’Today marks a triumph by planet earth over single-use plastics. This is the most significant environmental multilateral deal since the Paris accord. It is an insurance policy for this generation and future ones, so they may live with plastic and not be doomed by it.’” said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP.
The current impacts of plastic production and pollution:
"If we are to ensure food and water security for all people around the world, we need to prevent ecosystem collapse," says the Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed.
Protecting ecosystems will ultimately help our society continue to close the key greenhouse gas emissions gap by 2030, a gap that is currently, and rather tragically, expanding, not shrinking. Ms. Mohammed also noted “that progress on a legally binding global agreement on plastic pollution provides ‘a chance to truly make a difference, one that shows again the value of multilateralism,’ stressing that Africa has led the way.”
"Today, no area of the planet is left untouched by plastic pollution, from deep sea sediment, to Mount Everest. The planet deserves a truly multilateral solution to this scourge that affects us all. An agreement that speaks from source to sea."
This historic resolution, titled “End Plastic Pollution: Towards an internationally legally binding instrument,” may be the answer to not only ending the chronic consequences of plastic pollution on our planet, but also to building a more resilient, healthy, and collaborative post-pandemic world!
References:
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To help encourage you to stay on track with your health goal, we have gathered some proven health benefits behind regular exercise, with the help of the National Health Service of the United Kingdom. They call exercise, “the miracle cure we’ve always had, but for too long we’ve neglected to take our recommended dose.” So, here are just a few of the health benefits of getting active, however young, old, or busy you may feel!
Regular exercise can reduce your chances of developing a cardiovascular disease, and improve overall cardiovascular health! The heart is one of our 5 vital organs, meaning we cannot live without it. Exercise is a great way to reduce the risk of developing a cardiovascular disease. As heart disease and stroke are the two leading causes of death in the United States, exercise can help in directly reducing this risk. Exercise also strengthens your heart and improves circulation. The increased blood flow raises the oxygen levels in your body, helping to lower your risk of heart disease, coronary artery disease, and heart attack. Regular exercise can also lower your blood pressure and triglyceride levels.
Regular exercise strengthens your bones and muscles. Doing aerobic, muscle-strengthening, and bone-strengthening physical activity at even a moderate level can slow the loss of bone density that comes with age. One of the major benefits for your bones is that exercise significantly lowers the risk of hip fracture – a serious health condition that can have negative and life-long effects, especially in older adults. Among older adults, physical activity also reduces the risk of falling and injuries from falls. Physical activity can help promote bone growth and bone strength as well as reducing the risk of fall-related injuries.
Regular exercise can lower your blood sugar and help your insulin work at its maximum capacity. This helps cut down your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure, low HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol), high triglycerides or high blood sugar. You will actually start to see these benefits with levels of physical activity below the recommended 150 minutes a week! Additional amounts of physical activity have been seen to lower the risk even further.
Exercise doesn’t always have to be about the physical benefits... in fact, it shouldn’t! There are amazing emotional benefits to exercise as well. Physical exercise can help you destress after a stressful day, ease your mind, and provide a lift in your mood. This is especially true once you find the type of exercise that works best for you! Your neighbor might love her spin class, but if you cannot stand the site of a stationary bike, try something else. From dancing and swimming, to yoga and rock climbing, there is a plethora of options out there for you to try!
Physical activity stimulates various brain chemicals that may leave you feeling happier, as well as more relaxed and less anxious. Exercise can increase the release of endorphins – the “happy chemicals” – that act in a similar way to pain medicine in their interaction with your brain’s neurotransmitters. These endorphins are naturally released during exercise and have been shown to reduce depression as well as increase feelings of post-workout euphoria. Exercise can also help to boost your self-confidence and self-image, which will help to increase your perception of your self-worth.
The 5th benefit of regular exercise is that it can help you get to or stay at a healthy weight. Along with a healthy and well-rounded diet, physical activity plays an essential role in maintaining a healthy body weight, losing excess body weight, or maintaining successful weight loss. When it comes to weight management, it varies greatly person to person in how much physical activity is necessary to see results. Some may need to be more active than others to maintain a healthy weight. Regular trips to the gym are great, but don’t worry if you can’t find a large chunk of time to exercise every day. Any amount of physical activity is better than none at all. Taking the stairs instead of the elevator or revving up your household chores also goes a long way. Consistency is key!
Overall, physical exercise has many health benefits alone. Partnered with a healthy diet and good lifestyle choices, exercise can help you in many aspects of your life, whether you want to feel better physically or mentally. It is okay to start slow. Try a brisk walk tomorrow morning and eventually work your way up to a full jog. Everyone has different starting points and goals. Try what works best for you in promoting a long and happy life!
References:
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/exercise-health-benefits/
https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm
https://medlineplus.gov/benefitsofexercise.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise/art-20048389
https://truefitness.com/resources/mental-emotional-benefits-exercise/
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A word from Lucy Lue Organics…
"Lucy Lue Organics is a U.S. based family-owned and operated small business. As a premiere online baby shop, we exclusively offer Lucy Lue brand products and ship worldwide from Atlanta, GA. One mother's dream to own a business has become another mother's love for stylish organic baby clothes. Lucy Lue the brand, set out to design elevated baby essentials using premium organic cotton. We've intentionally incorporated soft, simple, and sustainable elements in everything we make.”
A word from Mini MATE…
“MATE is made sustainably in Los Angeles with non-toxic, natural, and Organic materials. Our Mission is to provide people everywhere with essentials that are clean from seed to skin. By committing to non-toxic, natural, and Organic materials, we hope to lead the clean fashion movement and affect change in the industry. Learn about our MATE Eight values here!”
A word from Tentree…
“We make Earth-First essentials using the most sustainable (and comfortable) materials in the world. Every time you purchase an item, we plant 10 trees. By planting trees for every purchase, we’re making big change accessible to everybody and showing the lasting impact that one small choice can have.”
A word from Ten Little…
“At Ten Little, we believe it's our responsibility to create a more sustainable future for our little ones. We choose to use natural, recycled, and organic components when possible on every aspect of Ten Little products and packaging. We ensure that every product we make has been tirelessly tested and vetted by experts for the highest quality and safety standards. Our best-in-class partner brands similarly offer a range of high quality, safe, and sustainable products. Before any product is added to our platform, we obtain and review the brand’s reports and evaluate the materials used. Quite frankly, if we would not give it to our kids, we wouldn't sell it.”
A word from PACT…
“Our mission is to build Earth’s favorite clothing company! Everything we make at Pact starts with Earth’s Favorite™ Fiber, Organic Cotton. Growing cotton organically saves vast amounts of water and uses no toxic chemicals. We partner with Fair Trade Certified™ factories because they ensure care for both people and planet. Fair Trade factories provide safe working conditions, empower and uplift local communities, and protect the environment.”
A word from Hanna Andersson…
“Our long-standing commitment to harm-free, organic materials and “Hanna-me-down" quality makes us the original sustainable kids clothing company. We believe in embracing adventures big and small, which is why Hannas are built for kids to dress themselves, express themselves, and explore the world around them.”
A word from Mini + Meep…
“Mini + Meep is a mama-owned, family-operated business based in Asheville, NC. Our mission is to provide high-quality, organic products for baby + toddlers that you can feel good about. The artwork you see on our products was hand painted by our founder and designed to make you smile, all while providing an easy and efficient way to give back to children in need.”
A word from Borobabi…
“We make ethically & sustainably crafted clothing accessible to all parents. Our circular model responsibly sources, upcycles and recycles products to ensure the health of our planet for generations to come. We care about your children like they’re ours. With every action we take, we consider your comfort and safety—and the health of the world that we’re leaving to our children.”
A word from Little Lentil Clothing…
“As a new mom, I searched high and low for sustainable clothing options for my baby. I admired the many brands using organic fabrics, but that seemed to be where the sustainable practices ended. All of our clothes are made from 100% certified organic cotton. Organic cotton is safer for your baby’s skin and also safer for the earth. Importantly, it’s healthier for the farmers and workers who grow and harvest the cotton.”
A word from Firebird Kids…
“Firebird was born out of a search for beautiful children's clothing that could be worn and passed on to others. The lifespan of kids clothing is even shorter than that of adult fast fashion. Most of it will end up in landfills, polluting the very world our kids will inherit from us. We believe in dressing children better and reducing waste by letting good clothes live and serve longer. Firebird clothes are designed and manufactured to last, and be handed down or resold for another child to wear. Design that is both elegant and bold. Highest-quality materials. Made in the US for generations of kids to wear.”
A word from Yeah Life…
“Yeah Life, is fun and colourful kids unisex clothing thoughtfully designed in Australia and mindfully made with transparency using hemp, organic and recycled materials. Our sustainable fabrics are gentle on your little one's sensitive skin and gentle on the earth. Our solar powered factory is unique and does an incredible job at offsetting our production! We're passionate about helping kids – every year we give back 10% to kids in need.”
]]>Recent studies suggest it may be beneficial to take a break from social media every once in a while. Since social media networking sites are known to lure you in and keep you in, it’s important to learn how to take a break from social media successfully and mindfully!
According to Doctor Neha Chaudhary, social media is a double-edged sword. On one end, it helps us stay connected with one another and combat loneliness (at least, in the immediate sense). On the other end, social media has been associated with cyberbullying, social comparison, and even depression as well as other phenomena that can be harmful for our health and well-being.
Engaging with friends via social media can be fast and convenient, but it limits our face-to-face interactions, which become less frequent the more we interact online. Social media may also cause feelings of stress, anxiety or depression if you are comparing yourself to the “perfect” lives many people portray to have on social media.
It is important to be conscious of how we use social media, or more so, how it uses or influences us. This includes knowing when it may be time to delete the app and cleanse from social media for a time being!
Overall, social media can be a fun and great way to stay in touch with friends! We also have to be conscious of how it affects our mood and everyday activities, as we spend time scrolling through our phones.
Ask yourself if social media is starting to feel more like a habit or chore, and less fun and enjoyable. Perhaps it’s time to take a cleanse for a while. Remember, it will still be there when you return, and it might even feel like a healthier and more enjoyable habit, after being away from it for a period of time. We encourage you to follow our tips to take better care of your mental and emotional well-being! We believe in you!
]]>Chia seeds have only recently grown in popularity within today’s society, and they are now officially recognized as a modern-day superfood! The seeds themselves are very easy to incorporate into your diet; they don’t have much taste and can be added to pretty much anything. They can be eaten raw, soaked in juice, blended in smoothies or added to baked goods. Let’s take a look at some of the surprising benefits of these small seeds that can add a powerful nutritional kick to your family’s diet!
A one ounce serving of chia seeds carries a lot of nutritional value with many essential nutrients, some which many of us don’t get enough of on a daily basis. In this one ounce serving, you get 11 grams of fiber, 4 grams of protein, 9 grams of fat, 18% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of calcium, 30% RDI of Manganese, 30% RDI of Magnesium, and 27% RDI of Phosphorus.
All of this nutritional value comes with only about 134 calories. Additionally, chia seeds have more Omega-3s, calcium, phosphorus and fiber than other seeds such as flaxseeds. Many people do not consume enough of these essential nutrients in their daily diet! So, add an ounce or two of chia to your morning smoothie. 😊
Chia seeds are made up of 14% protein which is higher than most other plants. Protein itself has many health benefits and is one of the most weight-loss-friendly dietary nutrients. A higher intake of protein has been known to lower appetite and reduce obsessive thoughts about food. Chia seeds are also considered a complete protein since they contain all nine essential amino acids that our bodies cannot produce on their own. Chia seeds are a great source of protein especially for our friends who eat little or no animal products!
These seeds have been shown to have a high antioxidant content. This is great for us since antioxidants help fight the production of free radicals, some of which can damage our cells. Free radicals also contribute to aging and disease, like cancer.
Fun fact: The antioxidants within the seeds help them from going rancid so they have a very long shelf-life, especially when stored in the fridge.
Chia seeds have been shown to help contribute to healthy blood sugar levels that is also helpful in lowering blood pressure. Both of these factors contribute to overall cardiovascular health!
Studies show that chia seeds may help reduce insulin resistance as well as improve blood sugar control, both of which are risk factors that contribute to diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Chia seeds can also aid in helping people who already suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure) by helping to lower it. High blood pressure is also another significant risk factor in developing heart disease.
There is a significant amount of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and protein inside these tiny little seeds. All of which contribute to bone health! The amount of calcium from chia seeds is worth noting, at 18% of our recommended daily intake. Compared to dairy products gram for gram, chia seeds have more calcium. This makes them an excellent source of calcium for people who don’t or can’t eat dairy.
Since chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, this in turn helps to reduce inflammation in our bodies! Although inflammation can be your body’s attempt to fight bacteria and viruses, it can also be harmful; especially chronic inflammation, which is known to be associated with an increased risk of heart disease and cancer.
The omega-3 fatty acid that helps to reduce inflammation is called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Just about 75% of the fats in chia seeds is the omega-3 acid ALA. Although ALA does need to be converted into eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) before it can be used by your body, studies have shown that chia seeds raise blood levels of ALA up to 138% and EPA up to 39%. These two acids are essential in helping to reduce chronic inflammation. Okay, that’s enough science for today! All in all, chia seeds play a significant role in helping our bodies regulate and fight inflammation.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-health-benefits-of-chia-seeds#TOC_TITLE_HDR_5
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/291334#benefits
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/chia-seeds#vitamins-minerals
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/food-features/chia-seeds/
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Of course, this fall activity is highly dependent on where you are located. If you're like us, located in sunny Santa Barbara, it's always a perfect day for a hike! Really, wherever you are, take a step outside, watch the leaves change, and breathe in the fresh fall air before the cold weather kicks in!
Tip: Use apps like AllTrails to find hikes near you. All of their hikes include directions and a digital map as well as reviews and the level of difficulty, in order to set you up for success!
The Thanksgiving season never gets old, huh? There's always something to be grateful for... so why not begin giving thanks now?! Challenge yourself (and the whole family) to start a Gratitude Journal on November 1 and write down something you are grateful for every day. That could look like a new list of things each day, or simply one new thing each morning. You'll begin to notice your perspective shift and your days more pleasant, with a heart filled with joy and gratitude. :)
Grab some of your best friends and schedule a tour of a local winery or brewery in your area! I mean, who doesn't want to enjoy a charcuterie board and a glass of their favorite bevvy on a Saturday afternoon?
Many wineries and breweries have live music and outdoor firepits so pack blankets and stay the whole day!
What's great about Farmer's Markets is that there's always something new with each visit. As the seasons change, so does the produce. The same goes for art and crafts. If you're interested in gifting a loved one with a fall-inspired special something, visit your local Farmer's Market! You're sure to find something unique that you may not find the next time you go.
Come prepared with money and a few reusable bags, and take advantage of all of the fall fruits and veggies on display. They won't be there for long! You may even find some funky (but organic!) looking pumpkins that could be perfect for the front porch. :)
A classic! Head over to your local pumpkin patch and let each member of your family pick out their self-proclaimed "perfect" pumpkin. You're sure to have a laugh at how different each child's pumpkin will be... if it's perfect to them, that's all that matters!
Head home, light some fall-inspired candles, spread out newspaper, and get carving! You can find tons of inspiration on Pinterest, and we highly recommend tracing your beautiful masterpiece before you get carvin'.
Rent bikes or dust off the ones in your garage and take a bike ride around your town! If you're close to the beach, ride along the boardwalk and enjoy the fall breeze on a Saturday morning. Of course, hitting your favorite coffee shop on the way home.
No beach, no problem! Find trails nearby with your family or simply ride around your neighborhood at sunset and let time pass by. Some of the best sunsets are in October and November. :)
It is that time of year again... and whether you are vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, or have any other restrictions, there are so many delicious recipes for you to try this fall! Dedicate a few days this season to whip out your favorite pumpkin bread and muffin recipes and maybe even try some new ones. Baked goods are the perfect gift for neighbors, teachers, and loved ones.
Tip: Try our team's favorite nutty granola recipe! There's cinnamon, coconut oil, and even hints of orange zest... yes please!
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