Current Beauty Indulgences

Since becoming a mama, I've really started to hold my daily (fingers crossed) shower as sacred. It's basically the only "me" time I get these days. So I decided to invest in some indulgent products to make the whole thang that much more of an escape.

I've always been careful to choose healthy products with safe ingredients, but I've definitely stepped it up since my pregnancy. Even now, while I'm breast feeding, everything I consume or put on my body gets passed to my baby girl so I want to take extra care to make healthful choices for the both of us.

So I went on a search for indulgent and healthy products, and I've made a few discoveries.

Nourish Organics Almond Vanilla Body Wash: this smells so divine, the blend of aloe, coconut milk, vitamin e, and essential oils is truly soothing, and yes, nourishing.

Pacifica Kona Coffee Body Scrub: I'm still a fan of making my own scrubs, but every now and then it's nice to buy a special one. This scrub exfoliates and stimulates to really improve the texture of your skin, leaving you almost as soft and smooth as your baby.

Aveda Shampure Shampoo and Conditioner: let's face it, this stuff works. My hair is soft and bouncy, plus you can't beat the herbaceous lingering smell.

Baby Bee Nourishing Lotion: I use plain old straight up coconut oil on my baby (it moisturizes and makes her smell so yummy), but I was gifted some of this lotion so ... I'm using it. :-) It's silky, highly moisturizing, leaves a nice light sent, and I know it's completely safe for my baby cakes. It's nice not to have to worry about holding her after applying it.

In terms of facial skin care - I'm still faithful to the basic outline of the AM and PM routines, but am really digging the Korres products, especially the Wild Rose Serum, these days.

Are there any indulgent products you're enjoying at the moment? Also, if you ever want to check on the safety of your products you can do a search on the Skin Deep Data Base - it's a great resource.

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lactation cookies

Yes, lactation cookies -this is a thing. Lactation cookies are chocked full of “galactagogues,” foods that promote or increase the flow of mother’s milk, also they're yummy. There are a few kinds of boobie milk cookies on the market, but why buy what you can easily make? Plus the recipe below (via Mama Natural) is especially healthy, full of organic good stuff, so there is zero guilt. 

Whip up a batch of these bad boys and enjoy some milk and cookies - literally. 

INGREDIENTS 

• 2 cups organic rolled oats
• 1/2 cup organic coconut sugar
• 1/4 cup tapioca flour (can use organic cornstarch or arrowroot flour)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast flakes
• 1 TB fennel seed, ground (can replace with flax seeds)
• 1 tsp. baking powder
• 1/2 tsp. baking soda
• 1/2 tsp. sea salt
• 1/2 cup almond butter (can replace with sunflower or tahini if allergic to tree nuts)
• 1/4 cup, plus 2 TB coconut oil, melted
• 2 eggs (can replace with chia seed or other egg replacement)
• 2 TB raw honey 
• 1/2 tsp. organic vanilla extract (can use almond or orange as well)

METHOD

1. Pre-heat oven at 350 degrees fahrenheit.
2. Put your 2 cups of rolled oats into a high speed blender or food processor. Blend until the oats are a flour-like consistency.
3. Measure out 1 TB of fennel seeds and grind in coffee grinder or with mortal and pestle until fine powder.
4. Put dry ingredients into large bowl and mix.
5. In a smaller bowl, put your almond butter, melted coconut oil, honey, eggs and vanilla extract. Mix well.
6. Pour the contents of smaller bowl into the dry ingredient bowl. Mix well with spoon or clean hands.
7. Grease a cookie sheet with coconut oil. Form small flat balls, about the circumference of a silver dollar. 
8. Bake cookies in oven for 15-20 minutes. Check for slightest browning on outside of cookie. Take out and transfer cookies to a cooling rack. 
9. Enjoy warm, or let cookies cool to room temperature. 
10. Eat up and let it flow. 

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Third Trimester

Before I completely forget about pregnancy in the haze of new mommy-hood, I thought I'd better share my third trimester must haves. (See first trimester and second trimester must haves as well.) I enjoyed my third trimester, yes you're a big as a boat, and yes, super worn out, but ... you're baby's almost here! What's more exciting than that?

By the time your third trimester rolls around you'll probably already have all the pregnancy products you need, aside from maybe buying bigger maternity pants, and will be beginning to shift your buying focus to baby products (a different post entirely) and nesting, but there are still a few pregnancy related activities to tackle.

Your bump should be super obvious by now - so cute! To care for it I continued the body scrub + vitamin E combo until the bitter end (actually, post pregnancy this continues to be a part of my grooming routine) and got though pregnancy stretch mark free. I also kept up with my Tracy Anderson workouts (when I had the energy) and did a ton of walking. I actually walked to and from dinner just a few hours before starting labor. Staying active really helps get your body ready for labor and makes "bouncing back" to your pre-pregnancy shape SO much easier. Not that you can't indulge a craving or two as well - I totally ate my fair share of cookies, ice cream, and pizza.

This is also a good time to take maternity photos. The 7th or 8th month are ideal - you want an obvious bump but don't want to feel too huge. I'd also recommend taking sometime to pamper yourself before the baby arrives - get your hair and nails did, get a massage (or five, seriously they are the best when you're knocked up), and hire someone to come and clean your home (yes, I consider that pampering yourself). Anything you need to do to relax and recharge, get your "me time" in now.

This is also the time to start preparing for the birth. If this is your first baby, definitely take a birthing class with your partner. No doubt your doctor's office will offer classes, but I think it's also good to take a class from an independent instructor as well, like a midwife, to get a well rounded perspective. If you're in San Francisco, the classes at Carmel Blue are fantastic. After your classes, talk with your partner and put together your birth plan. Make sure you give a copy to your doctor, put a copy in your hospital bag, and give copies to anyone who is planing to be present at the birth (like your mom). You want to make sure your wishes are widely know and that you have people to advocate for you if you are unable to advocate for yourself.

You'll also want to pack your hospital bag when you're getting closer to d-day. I packed mine a few weeks before the due date and was so glad I did when I went into labor early. The hospital will have basically everything you need, but it is nice to have cute socks and a robe to change into after your baby has arrived, your toiletries, phone chargers and/or camera, an outfit to wear home (for you and the baby), and anything else your birth plan calls for (music, massage oils, etc). But don't stress too much about it, your partner or a family member can always run out and grab anything you need.

Mostly just remember to be patient and forgiving of yourself, your life is changing in some really hard and beautiful ways. Savor this moment.

All images via Mallory Miya.

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If the shoe fits

Okay. I get the whole "beauty is pain thing" but this is a bit much. I get waxes, I'm all for extractions, I've gotten peels, and tried masks that felt like they were burning off a layer of skin, hell, I'm not even opposed to botox (someday, 10+ years from now) - but surgery to alter the shape of your foot in order to fit into designer heels? I don't know ...

According to this article, so called "Cinderella Procedures" are on the rise (especially in LA). Does this seem excessive to you, or is it a cosmetic procedure in the same vein as getting a breast augmentation? I don't know how I feel about this, unless there is a medial reason for foot surgery, it seems a bit frivolous (not to mention painful and unnecessary). But then again, is getting a wax frivolous and unnecessary? What do you think dolls?

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Tuesday's Tips & Tricks

Do any of you follow your horoscope? I must admit that I do. I'm not crazy or obsessive about it by any means, but I find it really fascinating and, often, eerily spot on. Usually the day to day or weekly horoscopes are a little less meaningful (to me) than say having your chart read (which is pretty awesome if you ever have the chance to do it). But there are a few astrological events I pay attention to - Mercury, I'm looking at you. If you pay attention to astrology too, you probably already know that we have two eclipses coming up in April, which can be rather significant. 


Astrologer Susan Miller - via Refinary29 - describes the up coming event: Eclipses always fall on a new moon or full moon, and they always come in pairs, two weeks apart. In April, these are monster moons — full of difficult aspects. So, while either of these new and full moons would have been important in their own right, the fact that these are eclipses — the nodal points of any year, where all events seem to revolve around the strong messages of the eclipses — means they have the strength of three new moons and full moons rolled into one. The first eclipse, on April 15, will be a full moon, ending or culminating a situation or relationship; and the second eclipse is a new moon, setting up a long-term trend ... The mission of an eclipse will be to uncover truth, and to sweep away unproductive and outworn elements — although at the time, you may feel that what is being taken away or changed is still relevant to you, not outworn at all. But, have faith, as the universe will be working on your behalf, even if you don’t yet see this to be true. 

Read more about the eclipses, how your sign will be affected, and tips on how to cope here. 

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Tuesday's Tips & Tricks

Sleep has been a big discussion topic in our home lately. Not because I've been sleeping poorly (thank you pregnancy), but because the hubs hasn't been sleeping well. It's a funny role reversal, usually the hubs hits the hay and is out like a light while I toss and turn, so I've learned my fair share of fall-asleep-techniques. But I hadn't heard of this one (hint - it involves breathing):

1. Get comfortable 
2. Breathe in through your nose on a count of three seconds
3. Breathe out through your nose on a count of six seconds 
4. Repeat until you fall asleep

So simple, no? This works for two reasons. First, you must consciously pay attention to counting your breath — it's like a more effective version of counting sheep. Second, your physical self will instantly feel the effect that comes with this shorter-inhalation, longer-exhalation. The physiological impact is immediate as your autonomic nervous system shifts, signaling muscles to relax, heart rate to slow, and your brain to downshift.

Fingers crossed for some good sleep in our home tonight.

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Tuesday's Tips & Tricks

One of my biggest pregnancy cravings these days has been ... smoothies! They satisfy that itch for some tangy goodness, plus are a great way to get several of your fruits and veggies in for the day in a single setting. Here's one of my go-to concoctions.

Mango, Spinach, Banana Smoothie 

Ingredients

• Handful frozen mangos
• 1/2 banana
• Generous handful of baby spinach
• 1/2 to 3/4 cup tangerine juice
• Optional: vanilla greek yogurt - if you want a creamier smoothie
• Optional: agave nectar - if you want a sweeter smoothie 

Method
Throw everything into a blender and blend until all ingredients are evenly combined into one smooth mixture. Pour into a tall glass and, if you're feeling frisky, top with some whipped cream.

You can also substitute frozen berries for the frozen mangos, add fresh berries to the ingredients above, or change out the type of juice - coconut water is really good as is blueberry juice. You really can't go wrong with a smoothie. Do you like it? Then that's a successful smoothie in my book. What are your favorite smoothie combos?

Images via yours truly.
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Thursday's Tidbit

Happiness has definitely been a theme 'round these parts, it's obviously a topic I feel worth revisiting and exploring. So let's discuss. Have you read this article about 10 things scientifically proven to boost happiness? Well, if not - let me break it down.

1. Exercise more
2. Sleep more
3. Move closer to work, a long commute is a happiness zapper 
4. Spend time with friends and family
5. Get yo boot outside
6. Help others, can you commit to 100 hours a year?
7. Smile - even fi you have to fake it to make it 
8. Plan a trip (taking it is optional)
9. Meditate
10. Practice gratitude 

What to think? Seems pretty doable right? You can read all the scientific supporting evidence here.

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Pregnant Pause

Thoughts on pregnancy - half way though my first.

I'm going to apologize in advance for what I'm sure will be a long - baby - centered - post. My feelings won't be hurt if you skip it and come back tomorrow for the usual musings on makeup and silliness. But if you are interested in my thoughts and experiences with pregnancy, strap in ...

Getting Knocked Up

I've always known I wanted to be a mother. It was never a doubt for me, so when thinking about a family started to make sense for the hubs and I - I was all in. I really didn't want it to be a stressful process, I wanted it to happen organically. So I took out my IUD and tried to remain calm. We weren't "trying" but we weren't doing anything preventative either. It took about 4 months, still the time felt like an eternity for me. In the meantime, I really focused on being positive and healthy. I filled myself and our home with love, and really tried to create an atmosphere that a new little spirit would find attractive. Then, boom, it happened.

I felt pregnant right away. I just felt different, but I waited until I missed a period to test and tell the hubs. At first, I felt an odd mix of vulnerability and ferocity. To mess with me was/is to mess with my baby, and I will not have that shit. But I also knew that early pregnancies are pretty fragile so, in a way I felt like I was holding my breath for the first trimester. Making it through the first 12 weeks without incident (except for fainting in the middle of a crowed Trader Joe's, but that's another story) and with a healthy baby in my belly was one of the biggest reliefs of my life.

What I've Been Eating

I definitely had morning sickness in the first 12 weeks, but nothing too crippling. Thankfully, that more or less subsided in my second trimester. My first really strong craving was for beef - burgers, steak, you name it. Basically, I started to crave protein and more substantial food. I've always been what you could call strict with my diet. So I've had to let go of a lot of that, listen to my body, and EAT. I try to make sure I'm getting a good balance of protein, dairy (mostly greek yogurt), good fats (nuts and avocados for example), and lots of fresh greens, fruits, and berries. I have also had to re-introduce carbs into my diet. I've been known to have the occasional cookie, and some chips now and then - but I try not to go too crazy on the junk food since that's not what I want to be feeding my baby.

Oh, and I drink a lot of water, coconut water, fruit juice, and smoothies. Wine, alas, will have to wait ...

Staying Healthy

Aside from trying to eat well, and continuing my acupuncture practice, I try to make sure I'm getting some good movement in. I do my Tracy Anderson DVD faithfully, stretch, and have continued walking to and from work. Our bodies really are so amazing. If we give them the right fuel, and get in enough activity, they do the rest. My weight gain has been steady, but not crazy, you know, the appropriate amount. I have to remind my self that this time really is about letting go, trusting my body to do what it needs to now, with the understanding that later I'll "bounce back" as they say.

The most important thing I can do now, is take care of myself. Taking care of myself is the best thing I can do in this moment to take care of my baby. She hasn't been born, but that doesn't mean I'm not her mommy, so I'm going to do my best for her. Simple as that.

[UPDATE] I've also been religiously taking prenatal multi vitamins, omega 3 fatty acid supplements, and a probiotic. These are musts for the healthy development of your baby.

What I've Been Wearing

It's easy to not feel like yourself when your pregnant, but I think it's important to stay connected to the person you were pre-pregnancy. So I have really wanted to keep dressing like myself, even as my body's changed. I've had great luck with ASOS, GAP, and American Apparel cotton tees and tanks in larger than normal sizes. Plus I've been lucky to inherit some cute pregnancy hand-me-downs. Cute flats, pretty jewelry, and fun bags are also nice.

I've tried to be careful not to spend too much on maternity clothes that I'll only wear for a few months, but one splurge that was totally worth it was a hot pair of maternity jeans that I can still feel sexy in. J Brand Jeans have been just perfect for this. Yes, they are expensive. I got mine on GILT for a reasonable price, so my best advice is to keep an eye in the sales. A nice pair of pajamas to wear around the house and not feel like a shlub in are also a must have.

Staying Connected

The hubs is much more of a homebody than I am, so staying in on the weekends hasn't been an issue for him. There have been lot's of movie nights, foot rubs, and sofa cuddling. Nesting and talking about our plans for this little one has also been a fun and sweet way to connect.

We're trying to stay connected with our friends as well - admittedly easier for the hubs with after work happy hours and such. My girlfriends have been amazingly supportive, despite my sobriety and earlier bedtime. There have been book clubs, mani-pedi dates, lot's of walks, longg phone calls, and the LA get away earlier this month. I really want to make sure that nurturing these relationships before baby girl's appearance is also a priority.

The support of the hubs, our families, and friends has been one of the most rewarding parts of this whole experience so far. I have really enjoyed being pregnant so far - I'm just really trying to soak in this whole season of life. Trying not to rush though this phase - while looking forward to the next.

So tell me, any of you pregnant too? Or hoping to be? What has your experience been?

Image via yours truly from a week or two back.
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Tuesday's Tips & Tricks

January may as well be national detox month. After the Thanksgiving-Christmas-New Year's revelry I'm sure all of our systems could use a break, and maybe a little pampering as well. You can go the juice cleanse route, or the complete 12 hour spa day route (dare to dream), or you can simply start in the tub with a nice detoxifying scrub down. 

GINGER DETOX BODY SCRUB
via Henry Happened 

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger
• ½ cup of Epsom salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Combine roughly chopped ginger and ½ cup Epsom salt in a food processor. Pulse a few times until the ginger is ground and combined.
2. Remove to a small bowl and add lemon juice.
3. Put down a towel and apply scrub before your bath or shower, start at your feet and work your way up. 

To really milk the detoxifying benefits, start a hot shower or bath before you start scrubbing. The heat from the shower plus the ginger will really make you sweat, so you can eliminate even more toxins and relax sore muscles to boot! Who said detoxing was difficult?   

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2014 Resolutions

Did you dolls make any resolutions for this year? Two years ago I made several little resolutions, then last year I decided to focus on one main resolution. This year I don't really have a resolution per se, but I do have a few things I want to work on - patience and balance.

I feel like this coming year I will really need to remind myself that patience is a virtue. I will need to be patient with myself and with the hubs as we become parents later this year, and I'm sure I'll need to remind myself to be patient with our baby girl as well. Being a family of three will be new to all of us. Balance is something that I continually strive for, and I'm sure this will only be more complicated and important as I become a new mom. I don't really have set goals here, other than to keep these two principles top of mind as the year wears on, and to strive for both. Wish me luck!

PS: Tips for keeping your resolutions, whatever they may be.

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Thursday's Tidbit

It's December dolls, the end of the year is riiight around the corner. Has 2013 been good to you all? I sure hope so. It's been an interesting one for my little family and I - a lot of ups and downs, but I suppose that's to be expected from a whole twelve months. In any case it's a good time to reflect a bit. 

Speaking of, I just read this post on Mind Body Green about creating a self reflection ritual of your own at the end of the year. Sounds a little daunting, but the questions below are a good place to start. 

25 Questions to Ask Yourself Before the End of 2013

1. What am I most proud of this year?
2. How can I become a better _____________?
3. Where am I feeling stuck?
4. Where do I need to allow myself grace?
5. Am I passionate about my career?
6. What lessons have I learned?
7. What did I my finances look like?
8. How did I spend my free time?
9. How well did I take care of my body, mind, and soul?
10. How have I been open-minded?
11. When did I feel most creatively inspired?
12. What projects have I completed?
13. How have I procrastinated?
14. In what ways can I re-structure my time?
15. How have I allowed fear of failure hold me back?
16. Where has self-doubt taken over?
17. When have I felt the most alive?
18. How have I taught others to respect me?
19. How can I improve my relationships?
20. Have I been unfair to anyone?
21. Who do I need to forgive?
22. Where is it time to let go?
23. What old habits would I like to release?
24. What new habits would I like to cultivate?
25. How can I be kind to myself?

What do you think loves, wanna give it a go? Do you have any special end of year rituals?

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Thursday's Tidbit

This is going to sound totally Stepford of me, but I actually really like cleaning. Before you roll your eyes, hear me out. I like it because not only does it give me a sense of calm and control in a chaotic world, it's also a great work out. Apartment therapy recently posted about this, here is there breakdown of calorie burning chores: 

• Vacuuming and Sweeping: (burn 240 calories/hour) 
• Scrubbing Floors: (burn 325 calories/hour) 
• Stairs: (burn 250 calories/hour) 
• Childcare: (burn 205 calories/hour) 
• Cooking: (burn 150 calories/hour) 
• Laundry (repetitive bending): (burn 260 calories/hour) 
• General Cleaning (dishes, dusting): (burn 200 calories/hour)
• Shoveling Snow: (burn 415 calories/hour)
• Mowing the Lawn: (burn 325 calories/hour)
• Raking Leaves: (burn 235 calories/hour)

Feeling a little more motivated? Me too! 

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Wed Day

Kissing!

I'm a big fan, I'm totally on board with kissing. I kiss the hubs as much as possible. It's not a good morning or a good night (or a welcome home, or a have a nice day, or a great job killing those zombies in that video game) without a kiss. But why are we so compelled to kiss? This article can shed some light: 

Recent research conducted by Rafael Wlodarski, a DPhil student in the Department of Experimental Psychology at Oxford University, and Professor Robin Dunbar sought to find clues to the evolutionary rationale for kissing. Does it allow us to assess the genetic mojo of potential mates? Is it just a stimulating routine that preludes sex, or does it function to keep mates together longer?

Wlodarksi and Dunbar surveyed over 900 adults online about their kissing habits and its importance in their relationships. They found that women rated kissing as generally more important than men. Additionally, men and women who thought of themselves as attractive, or had more short-term relationships and casual sex, also thought kissing was more important.

On top of that, people in long-term relationships rated kissing as more important, and kissing frequency also correlated to relationship satisfaction. Good lovin', it turns out, does keep a home together.
The researchers are publishing their findings in two papers in two journals, Archives of Sexual Behavior and Human Nature. In the latter paper, Wlodarksi and Dunbar report that menstrual cycles also play a role in making out, as women tended to rate kissing as more important during the late-follicular phase, when they were more likely to conceive.

We mammals (humans particularly) spend a long time pregnant and then breast feeding, which makes us especially picky about choosing a mate. So kissing maybe a way to help us better select the lucky one, and then used as a tool to ensure they'll be around after the deed is done. Fascinating, yes? 
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Weekend Wrap-Up

This past weekend was just what I needed. I did ... nothing! Well next to nothing. I've been feeling really run down lately so sometime to just be was really a blessing. Plus I had Monday off for Columbus Day (or Indigenous Peoples Day as folks around here often call it), so a third day to do nothing was really an indulgent treat.

Friday night we went to dinner with a good friend we hadn't seen for a while, it was so nice to catch up over a good meal. Saturday, the hubs got up and out early to play frisbee disk golf with his buddies in Golden Gate Park. So I enjoyed a day to myself.

It was the first day in a loong time (over a year maybe) that I didn't leave the appartment. I know! I didn't just veg though, I cleaned, I baked, I cuddled with the kitties, and I caught up on my trashy TV (Kardashians and Real Housewives - I'm lookin' at you). The day ended with a call from the hubs, he was at In-N-Out and would I like him to bring me a cheese burger - um, do bears poop in the woods? Yes! Animal style please. I love surprises like that.

Sunday and Monday were more of the same, except that I managed to pull it together and get out into the world for a few long walks, a manicure, and some shopping in Union Square. Maybe not the most thrilling weekend to write home about, but it was just perfect to me

How were all of your weekends dolls? Restorative I hope!

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Thursday's Tidbit

So this one is from Refinary29, but it was too good not to share. The awesome crew there teamed up with wellness guru Courtney Somer, creator of Eyla, an online resource of inspiration and tools to maintain personal peace. In the piece below, she details mudras, and how they can bring a little peace and clarity to your day: 

The hands are seen as magic wands in the body, and the bridge between heaven and earth. They have both the power of creation and the ability to manifest. Each area of the hand corresponds to different emotions and behaviors and are a map of energy of our health and consciousness.

Mudras are symbolic gestures that are usually done with the hands and can be paired with breathing techniques in yoga to awaken different aspects and parts of the self. These seals or locks, as they are often described, direct energy flow and reflexes to the brain.

Each finger is related to a planetary energy, and the thumb relates to the individual persona. Touching the thumb (the fleshy part, not the nail) to each fingertip evokes something different. There should be some pressure for energy to flow, but not too much where the fingertips whiten. There are passive and active parts to each mudra. The passive seal is when the thumb is used to touch the fleshy part of the finger. The active seal is when the thumb touches the nail of the finger. Passive mudras are mostly used in meditations, but active can be used in daily routine.

Here is a guide to understanding mudras and what they evoke. They are quite simple and can be used daily.

Gian mudra is the seal of knowledge (index finger and thumb). The index finger is associated with Jupiter, which is linked to expansion and prosperity. It evokes the most expansive version of the self, so you can flow through your life lessons with ease and calm. This is a good to-do when speaking to someone, so you come from your highest self. It stimulates wisdom and knowledge.

Shuni mudra is the seal of patience (middle finger and thumb). This finger corresponds with Saturn, the taskmaster, overseer of responsibility, and that which governs karma. It sets up lessons to go through, so you can grow, and allows you to step up to your destiny. Using this mudra helps with patience and commitment.

Surya mudra is the energy which gives life and activates your light from within (ring finger and thumb). This finger is associated with the Sun (energy and vitality) and Uranus (intuition, strength, and change). This is a good mudra to boost health and strength; it activates your internal light. The active form of this mudra can bring about radical change or breakthroughs, a good one to use if stuck creatively or otherwise.


Buddhi mudra is the seal of mental clarity and communication (pinky and thumb), associated with the planet Mercury. This affects the ability to speak your truth, understand clearly, and to be able to relate to another person. It also helps you connect with the words you want to say, allowing more intuition and a clearer mind. The active form of this mudra increases psychic and intuitive abilities.

Prayer pose is neutral foundation is a position used regularly in yoga. To do it correctly, hands should be together in prayer, palms flat, and elbows out to the side at straight angles. Thumbs should touch your sternum. This position serves to balance the left and right brains or masculine and feminine polarities that reside within, the right side being more active, the one that manifests, and the left being more receptive. If you are experiencing depression, massaging the heart center with the thumbs while in prayer pose can help this. This heart center is connected to the pituitary gland at the crown of the head.

Golden triangle is the index and middle finger pointing outward and the thumb at their base. This is a great mudra for breakthroughs and manifesting quickly. 

Will you give this practice a try?

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Thursday's Tidbits

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 43% of U.S. adults drink less than four cups of water daily. Yikes right?! Especially since we all should be drinking 5 -8 glasses depending on height and weight. 

Proper hydration is critical to so many vital health functions, from keeping your body toxin free, to keeping your energy levels up, to fortifying your immune system, to pretty looking skin. Drinking more water can even help relieve headaches, achy joints, and fatigue. Such a simple fix, no? 

Here are five ways to get more water in your life courtesy of mind body green:

1. Drink water first thing in the morning (I add some apple cider vinegar to mine).
2. Sweeten water naturally with fruit to make it more enticing (berries, grapes, cucumber, and lemon all work nicely for this).
3. Invest in a water bottle or carafe that you love and will always keep with you (then use it).
4. Track your progress throughout the day - there's gotta be an app for that.
5. End your day with herbal tea, calming and hydrating.

Easy peasey, right?

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Coconut Chia Pudding

I've mentioned that chia seeds are my new jam - such an easy way to bump up your healthy. So I can't wait to try this recipe I found on Kitchen Confidante, I might even be able to get the hubs to eat them this way.  

Coconut Chia Pudding
Serves two

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup chia seeds
• 1/4 cup sugar or agave nectar
• 12 oz light coconut milk
• Grated coconut, for garnish

Directions:

In a small bowl stir together the coconut milk, chia seeds and your choice of sweetener. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until the chia seeds expand. Stir one more time and spoon into serving dishes. Garnish with grated coconut and serve immediately.

Om nom nom. 

Via kitchen confidante.
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Friday's Finds

I try to be pretty conscience about the products I use, as well as what I put on or in my body. But there is one area where I just haven't been able to make the switch, deodorant. Most commercial deodorants are terrible for you, but they work (I especially like this one). This is the dilemma. Natural deodorants are much better for you but ... not so much with the working. And as an added bonus, I'm allergic to most of them, itchy underarms are less than fun. Though, like a fool, I keep tying.

Most recently, I decided to give the Lavanila Natural Deodorant a try. It "uses beta-glucan technology to effectively fight odor while soothing, conditioning, and strengthening the skin." It goes on smoothly, with no sticky wetness, and has a fresh pleasant sent. It's formulated without:

• Parabens
• Sulfates
• Synthetic Dyes
• Petro-Chemicals
• Phthalates

Sounds too good to be true, right? Well ... it works, but, just not as well. Maybe I just need to get used to it? I'm really trying here guys. Have any of you ever found a natural deodorant you were happy with? 

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Thursday's Tidbit

How do you start your day?

Well, I usually start off by feeding the cats, so let's skip to step two: apple cider vinegar. Just a tablespoon or two of apple cider vinegar in a glass of plain water to start the day. It's awesome, it really hydrates and wakes up the system. The apple cider vinegar helps to keep your body alkaline, plus it whitens your teeth and is great for your digestion, even your hair, skin, and nails can benefit. After that, I do a bit of chlorophyll shot -- yes, like what you find in plants. Chlorophyll helps bring oxygen into your blood, is an internal deodorant, and is really detoxifying. 

These two little things in the morning only take as long as the time it takes to drink a glass and a half of water, but make such a difference. I feel energized, less bloated, more hydrated, and really ready to take on the day. Small change, big impact. For realsy. 

How about you dolls - would you drink vinegar?

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