Coming Full Circle: Autumn Moon's New Journey

6 years ago, I started this blog to save my sanity. I was 35 with two kids under 4 years old. I was watching my girls during the day and working nights and weekends as a skin care therapist to help support our family as we struggled through the impact that the recession was having on the automotive industry and local economy here in Detroit. Our friends were losing their homes. They were moving across the country to find work. We were struggling just to put diapers on our kids. I was also still reeling with overwhelming grief over the loss of my brother, Vince, who was killed by a drunk driver in 2007.

Skincareforyoursoul.com was a space I could retreat and clear my head from all of the noise. It was a grounding force to keep me moving forward and a positive, creative outlet during a time when I felt defeated by life.

I never expected anyone to actually read this stuff. But they did. And this past six years has been amazing. I have met people I would have never met if it wasn't for this space - folks from across the globe. Beautiful, kind, wonderful people.

A lot of joy has been woven into this space. And a fair share of tears, too.

But, the time has come for me to slip on my wedge heels and continue on the journey.

My children are growing. We are recovering from the crashing economy. Some of our friends have even moved back to Detroit. My family is starting fresh on our new family farm.

This past 6 years has changed me forever, and while I will take brief glances in the rear view mirror from time-to-time for bearings, it is time to buckle in and look at the road ahead.

Autumn Moon Aesthetics was a baby I birthed back in 2003, offering botanical skin care therapy and custom-blended cosmetics. The beautiful union of plants, skin, color, scent and texture - the elements of my craft - are what started this journey for me. They are what fuel my passion and creativity. Much like paints for a painter - these are my vehicle for expressing myself in this life.

So, today, I'm celebrating them. And in the process, remembering that person that started Autumn Moon 12 years ago. And honoring her.

So with that, I am excited to share with you Autumn Moon's new home: PLANTGLAMOUR.COM

It's still me. In fact, it is more me than the me that has existed for these past years. And it is a title that expresses my vision - celebrating the magic, alchemy, beauty and allure that plants bring to our bodies, faces and spaces, both now, and in all of the ages past.

PLANT GLAMOUR will offer:

• An online boutique for Autumn Moon botanical skin care, handcrafted cosmetics, fragrance and more.
• Information on botanical skin care, aromatherapy, beauty trends and recipes for botanical skin care at home.
• Information on local and online workshops I will be offering, as well as interesting local plant and beauty happenings.
• Opportunities to work with me one-on-one to meet your skin care and gorgeousness goals, including custom, handcrafted skin care and cosmetics.

The SCFYS blogpot will stay for a time, as I move content over to the new site, but will no longer be active. If you would like to join me on this new journey, you can sign up at the new site to opt in and I look forward to seeing you there. If you decide not to journey with me, please know that just by being here for this time and in this place you have touched my life deeply, and I thank you for that.

Much love,
Camille

5 Ways to Spring Clean Your Skin Care Routine

Here in Michigan, spring has arrived. The icy winter days have given way to a softer, sunnier outdoors. The birds are singing and early spring plant life is peeking its way out into the world. The grass becomes green again and we can open the windows and take a deep breath without our nostrils sticking together from the frigid temperatures.

We celebrate renewal with springtime rituals, both old and new. 

Walking barefoot to see plants peeking out for their very first time in the herb garden of our new farm. 

And playing with our 5-week-old chickens. 

And counting the buds on our new family apple tree, awaiting arrival of blossoms in a few weeks.

It is safe to say that the transition from winter to spring in Michigan is one of the most dramatic - and most anticipated - changes of season.

Those dramatic changes in weather can also cause dramatic shifts in your skin, as the spring temperatures and humidity begin to make their climb toward summer. The result can be skin that is out of balance - still dry and flaky from the winter months, yet feeling the effects of the warmer, more humid days with increased oil production and seasonal breakouts.

Here are 5 ways to bring winter skin into springtime balance...

1. Switch to a lighter skin care routine

As the days become warmer, begin to transition your skin to products with a lighter touch. The same rich moisturizers and lotions that your skin may need for winter become too heavy for spring. Switch to lighter serums and lotions, as well as moving to a lighter foundation for daily wear.

2. Exfoliate

The dry skin of winter may still be lingering on your bod. A barrier of dry, flaky skin keeps your products from working optimally and, when mixed with humidity and increased oil production from warmer temps, creates a recipe for breakouts.  

Exfoliate your face 1-2 times weekly with either a mild physical exfoliant, like a scrub or gentle cleansing grains (scrubbing gently) or an exfoliating enzyme mask that you leave on and rinse off. 

Treat your body once a week to a thorough exfoliation with a circulation boosting DIY sugar scrub. Mix 1 cup cane sugar with 1/2 cup olive oil (adding a few drops of essential oil if desired). Massage the scrub thoroughly in a circular motion onto damp skin in the shower from the neck down - taking care not to slip and to be gentle on the delicate bits. ;) Rinse off with warm water, towel dry and apply your favorite light lotion.

3. Go "bare-faced" a few nights a week.

The time when we are sleeping is prime skin regeneration time. Although nourishing night serums or lotions do help to enhance our skin's health and appearance, take a few nights a week to allow skin to breathe freely and perform its natural detoxification and renewal process, allowing it to naturally regulate moisture balance.

4. Continue to stay hydrated.

Transitions to warmer days require extra internal hydration to keep skin in proper balance. No amount of lotion applied to dry skin can make up for not drinking enough fluids. Be mindful to increase your fluid intake with water, herbal teas and coconut water accordingly, even more so if you drink caffeine or alcohol or are working out regularly.

5. Wear your sunscreen.

These mild, breezy spring days with the first rays of sun on our skin can glamour us into forgetting we need to apply sunscreen. Although a few minutes a day of sun on bare skin is good for Vitamin D levels, don't forget to wear a natural zinc-based sunscreen. Every. Single. Day. Unless you want wrinkles. :)

What is your favorite springtime ritual? How do you celebrate the coming of the warmer, brighter days?

I Tried It: The Great Guasha Experiment

I am always fascinated by international and cultural skin care treatments and was very intrigued when my plant sister, Sherry, sent me a link to an article on "Guasha," an ancient practice of cleansing and purifying the skin to promote overall wellness.

Historically, gua sha, is a traditional Chinese practice of using a tool, usually a spoon, a bone or pieces of jade, to vigorously scrape a prepared paste or oil off of areas of the body to release stagnant energy. This is thought to open up pathways of healing through the skin. In practice, the treatment sometimes can cause abrasions and bruising. This is a very simplistic explanation, of course, and does not honor the rich history and background of the practice of this treatment.

After more perusing the interwebs, it seems an alternative form of guasha is being practiced in the form of more of a body scrub delivery system, using baking soda and vodka (and sometimes crushed shells and minerals). The premise is that this treatment kills unwanted bacteria, fungus, etc. on the skin and opens up the pores to promote healing of the whole body by allowing skin to purge toxins more efficiently. 

Hmmmm....I have put stranger things on my body. Let's give it a go!

Well, I happened to have both items at the ready so I whipped enough aluminum free baking soda with vodka to make a thick paste. All I had on hand was premium vodka that was a gift, so, hey, fancy for a body scrub, huh?

My gorgeous guasha paste.

The process to perform the treatment is to shower for a moment, then turn off the water and apply some of the paste spread onto a loofah in vigorous circular motions to the body, starting at the feet and moving up.

The slight smell of a distillery was a little odd, but, since I'm taking one for the team here, I forged ahead, while pondering offering this as a spa treatment alongside a shot of vodka and a caviar face mask... 

Anyway, after a thorough scrubbing, including my face (gently for 30 seconds only, rather than the 3-5 minutes I saw recommended), I rinsed, got out of the shower and applied a light layer of coconut oil to my entire body, as suggested.

Here is my verdict on this treatment:

THE PROS

• Although I expected the paste would be brutal, it actually had a nice creamy feel.
• The thorough scrubbing was very invigorating and my skin felt very smooth and toned afterward (I suppose the vodka had the same toning effect as an aftershave on skin tissues). I felt peppy and ready to start my day!

THE CONS

• My skin did feel dry and tight afterward, even with the application of coconut oil, as I suspected it may, using alcohol as a body cleanser.
• My skin was smooth, but not moisturized, as it would have been with a traditional oil-based body scrub.
• It smelled like I was at the bar. Should I ever try this again, I may add a drop of essential oil to cut the booze odor.
• It is advised to perform this treatment several days in a row, which seems excessive and so drying/irritating, that it makes me want to cry a little.

THE BURNING QUESTIONS

• By scrubbing vigorously with a treatment containing alcohol, a strong solvent that strips the skin of lipids and protective moisture, how much are we compromising our skin's natural protective lipid barrier, resulting in damage to the skin?
• Since skin houses good bacteria, are we effectively killing them off, also, causing an upset of the natural bacterial balance of skin? 
• Is the excessive scrubbing reaching a tipping point of over-exfoliation, thus compromising the skin's healthy balance and function?

Arguably, I am looking at this from the perspective of a skin care therapist without any actual facts or experience regarding the treatment as a wellness application. This practice has been going on since ancient times and I trust the healing foundations for it. 

But, this is the kind of stuff that keeps me up at night.

So overall, I'm not sure I would try this again. I would much prefer to exfoliate with a treatment that, removes unwanted dead skin cells and debris, allowing pores and skin to function optimally, while still moisturizing and protecting the skin and it's delicately balanced lipid barrier.

Would you try this treatment? Although, I would not recommend it, if you do try it or have tried it, I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Yours in exfoliation,

Camille xoxo

CHANGE IS NOW: An Exciting Announcement from Autumn Moon

For many I know, the theme of 2014 was profound change. Moves. Deaths. Divorce. Sure this stuff happens every year, but, this year it just felt, well, different. Like we are all moving forward, closer and faster, to where we are supposed to be in our lives and as a group. 

2014 was messy. It was ugly. But one thing I felt that was really different this year is that we did it together. And with a new sense of kindness. We carried each other when we couldn't do it on our own. And sometimes, we were carried by people we barely knew. 

Perhaps it is social media, binding us all closer together and giving glimpses into each other's lives that normally would never be revealed, prompting support that would have never taken place in the dark? Not sure. But, despite the negativity and chaos of the headlines each day, I choose to look in another direction. I think the energy of now is moving in a positive way to one of community and sharing and support of fellow man. And that is cool.

2014 was a year of big change for me, personally, with a very emotional move and scary health challenges for loved ones. Everything stopped in its tracks - my business, my energy, my focus. 

But, it was also the kind of change that, eventually, kicked my arse into line, pushing me forward again into a new creative direction. This change was intent on birthing something positive into the world for others to enjoy. I listened to the voices inside, as well as the cheerleaders by my side (of which there are many and I am grateful to you all). I had a HUGE realization that - the perfect time is NOW. Duh. 

We fool ourselves a lot into thinking that we will make changes when the time is right - when there is more money, more time, more whatever. But really, that time is NOW. 

For me and for you.

So with that, I am very excited to announce that I have opened a new Autumn Moon online etsy boutique! This will replace my previous Poppyswap store and will have items added regularly in rhythm with the seasons, inspiration and alchemy that may occur during this journey.

But, that's not all! 

I am also offering two botanical body care memberships to bring glamour to your doorstep.

Some of you may remember :::THE PAINTED POUT::: - the 3-month handcrafted lip treat membership that I offered last summer. That was so much fun, that I have brought THE PAINTED POUT back to add allure to your lips and some sass to your step. Membership pricing remains the same as before at $49 for 3 shipments. 

For those looking for even more luxurious pampering, I am now offering the :::PLANT GLAMOUR BEAUTY BOX::: - a 3 OR 6 Month handcrafted botanical luxuries membership.

Membership (normally $117 for 3 months and $210 for 6 months) includes a monthly themed body-care box containing 3 (or more) products crafted from the finest ingredients, including plants from our family farm and from the fields and forests of Michigan. A unique experience to honor yourself and take treasured time to care for your body with 100% natural products.

Surprises in your PLANT GLAMOUR box could include:

- A luxurious botanical body butter
- A skin-smoothing body scrub
- An "at-home" facial kit
- A botanical perfume
- A handcrafted, natural lip color
- An aromatic facial mist
- A regenerating, anti-aging facial oil
- A floral facial steam
- A scented bath milk
- A natural cosmetic kit (shadow, blush and lip color)
- A renewing eye serum

To celebrate these new memberships with you, I am offering 10% off subscriptions to THE PAINTED POUT and the PLANT GLAMOUR BEAUTY BOX from now through January 15 in my etsy boutique! Simply use the coupon code: MEMBERSHIP10 at checkout.

Click on the icons below to be taken to the ordering page for each membership:

   

 































I am feeling very aligned with this new boutique and this new direction and I hope that you will join me in a membership and take sacred time for yourself. Let this new year of change be a luxurious one full of loving self-care. 

Botanical Blessings and much love to you all!

- Camille

Top Tips to Help Dry Winter Skin

While I wouldn't change a thing about living in Michigan - it is beautiful - the weather sure is fickle. While last week was 9 degrees and snowy, today is 55 and rainy. Drastic fluctuations in temperature are certainly the norm here - and it is also a perfect recipe for dry skin.

When the temps drop, indoor forced-air heat can quickly dehydrate your skin. Go outside and chilly outdoor temps cause skin to loose moisture to the air. Icy winds chap and irritate. Then it warms up again and your skin is left saying: WTF?!? And the cycle continues...

I have heard from several of you over the last week that your skin is disgruntled and dry. So here are a few tips I have compiled to help you on the road to happy, hydrated skin:

General Tips to Prevent Dry Skin

Hydrating your body from the inside is the first step to preventing dry skin. 

• Drink plenty of water and/or coconut water to help keep your skin hydrated. Eat plenty of fruits and veggies to also increase hydration in your body.
• Try to avoid caffeinated drinks, as they dry out your skin. If you must have your coffee in the morning (and, believe  me, I understand!), drink an extra glass of water for each cup.
• Try to avoid alcohol, as it also dehydrates your skin.
• When headed outside, cover your skin as much as possible with clothing. Cover any areas of exposed skin with a thick lotion to prevent moisture loss.
• Apply lip balm frequently throughout the day, especially before you go outside.
• Keep baths and showers short and warm (not hot). Hot water dries skin out by stripping your skin of its natural oils. 
• Add fatty fish, like salmon, to your diet or take a good quality fish oil. The good omega-3 fatty acids help to keep skin moist.
• Avoid using harsh cleansers, soaps or exfoliants. These will only further strip your skin and lead to dryness.

General Tips to Treat Dry Skin

Exfoliating dry skin first is key to allowing your products to work more effectively.

• Gently exfoliate dry skin with a brush, loofah or exfoliating gloves as part of your body cleansing routine in the shower before using any topical treatments (oils, lotions, etc.). Dry, flaky skin needs to be removed from the surface of skin to allow topical treatments to work more effectively. Be SUPER gentle if your skin is overly sensitive and use these items only a few times a week. Avoid them altogether if you have any rashes, open wounds or general irritation.
• Avoid cleansing your entire body every day, especially with a foaming soap or body wash, as they can strip your skin. Skip a day of sudsing, or wash only those most important bits daily. ;) 
• Better yet, use a body wash of 1 part honey to 1 part oil (jojoba or coconut is lovely) a few times a week in place of your regular soap.
• Apply lotions, body butters, oils, etc. immediately after showering while your skin is still damp. You want to capture the water and seal it into your skin.
• Layer your products to protect skin from loss of precious moisture to the elements - start with an oil, followed by a rich lotion or body butter.
• Avoid using products with artificial ingredients, as they can dry and irritate skin, too.

Helpful Ingredients For Dry Skin

Calendula oil and beeswax salve is a great dry skin healer.

• Humectants like honey and vegetable glycerin help to pull moisture from the air into your skin.
• Oils like olive, coconut, hazelnut, grapeseed, jojoba, sesame and sunflower work to replace lost moisture, while being easily absorbed into skin.
• Oils like rosehip seed and carrot seed help to increase cell regeneration, repairing damaged tissues.
• Products containing beeswax add a breathable, protective layer to skin.
• Essential Oils like chamomile, lavender, ylang ylang and sandalwood help to soothe and heal dry itchy skin.
• Aloe Vera soothes, heals and stops itching from irritated, dry skin. Just be sure you use the pure aloe gel, not the stuff full of colors and added fragrances.
• Hyaluronic Acid is an ingredient found naturally in skin, it attracts and retains moisture in your skin, while plumping and softening, which is great for dry skin and wrinkles (bonus!).
• Fruits and Veggies like avocado and banana help to add moisture to skin.
• Fruits and Veggies like papaya, pineapples and grapes help to naturally exfoliate dry skin due to their natural fruit acids and enzymes.
• Herbs like calendula, chamomile and lavender are soothing, healing and anti-inflammatory for dry-irritated skin. A nice oil infused with these is great for dry skin.
• Herbs like rose, licorice, marshmallow and chickweed are cooling and demulcent (they form a soothing, protective layer on dry skin).
• Sea Kelp is amazing for skin when used externally. It's gelatinous texture soothes, hydrates and protects dry skin.

I hope this offers some helpful ways to hydrate, repair and protect your skin during these upcoming months.

xoxo,

Camille

EXCLUSIVELY FOR YOU, DEAR READERS: 50% OFF Your First ADAMA MINERALS Order!

So, remember my review of the fabulous clay-based products at ADAMA MINERALS? Well, the kind folks at their company have created an exclusive offer just for YOU - Autumn Moon/Skin Care For Your Soul blog readers!

Receive 50% off your first order when you enter "autumnmoon" as the coupon code at checkout (www.adamaminerals.com). 

Treat yourself - or someone you love - to a gift of healthy, good-for-you products! Enjoy!

I Tried It: ADAMA Purify Glacial Mud Mask

I recently had the pleasure of trying a selection of products from ADAMA - a body care line crafted with 100% Calcium Montmorillonite clay blended with herbal extracts, essential oils, butters and other loveliness. Their extensive line of products with unique formulas captured my attention and after experiencing the products first-hand - I am loving them!

My very, very favorite product is their ADAMA Purify Glacial Mud Mask. I have used many, many clay/mud masks on myself and clients over the years and this one is spectacular. In addition to sustainably harvested, mineral-rich glacial marine clay, this firming and exfoliating mask is also created with skin-soothing and protecting ingredients like comfrey, chamomile, calendula and sea kelp.

Wanting to really put this product to the test, I took it with me on a girlfriend's weekend to Northern Michigan with a group of my best buds since 4th grade. After a stunning fall day of driving the shore of the Traverse City Bay and visiting Pond Hill Farm, we snuggled down in our cozy rental for a little old-fashioned girl's night - PJs, wine and a little spa time.

Girl's night with my goofy forever friends.

The ADAMA mask is formulated for all skin types, which was great since the four of us each have very different skin, ranging from oily to dry and hormonal/acne prone. After a gentle cleanse, we each applied the mask generously. It applies gorgeously, gliding over skin. And unlike other clay masks on the market, this mask offered deep cleansing benefits without being drying or irritating. Our faces were left soft, smooth, glowing and balanced. I still noticed the benefits to my skin even days later. This one is a keeper!

In addition to this mask, there were two other products that I fell in love with from the ADAMA product line. Ancient Clay Repair - a nutrient rich clay treatment cream for irritated skin containing oregano, tea tree and eucalyptus oil - quickly healed an angry mosquito bite on one daughter, itchy skin on the other and razor burn on myself. White Coconut Body Butter - blended with coconut extract, shea and cocoa butters and mongongo oil - smells insanely delicious and keeps skin soft and protected for hours with just one application.

In addition to being created with mineral-rich clay, ADAMA products are also vegan, paraben/sulfate/gluten free. Looking forward to trying more!

When Life Gives You the Finger...

It has been some time since I have written a post here at this ol' blog. For these past few months, life has been, well, pretty darned full of the stuff life throws at you.

I will give you the Cliff Notes...

We sold our home of 13 years at the same time my husband, Jim, had a serious bike accident and our 13-year old Husky, Zoe, was fading from kidney problems. We said goodbye to our dear neighbors and I said goodbye to my home skin care studio, as well. We had four days to move from the old home to the new home. We moved to the new home and just a few days later, had to say goodbye to our beautiful, precious Zoe. Shortly after, during a routine test, Jim found out he was having concerning issues with his blood and was sent to a hematologist. And all of this came full-circle in the midst of a brutal Mercury Retrograde - just in time for our wacky summer to be over and school to start. Phew.

Our sweet, sweet girl.

I guess you could pretty much say that life gave us the finger. For several weeks, I thought I was losing my mind and wanted nothing more than to sit in the corner sucking my thumb.

I missed my old home - the home I brought my babies home to. I missed my sweet dog. I missed my neighbors. I missed my studio, my business and my clients. My husband was unable to walk, making moving into our new home a challenge. And his blood test made us fear the worst. I was struggling to keep a cheery face for my kids, who were making one of the biggest transitions of their life, so far.

Life has a way of sometimes trying to appear that it is bringing us down.  But, when you take a step back, take a deep breath, remember that we are resilient creatures (physically and emotionally) and really take the time to look at things - you are given the bigger picture.

Our new home is set on a beautiful 4+ acres of land with a quiet pine grove and an oak forest. When it was "go time" for our lightning-fast move - our village of friends was there at the ready, lifting, hauling and sweating to help move our lives from one home to the next. Since we didn't move far, our old neighbors have been close by to keep in touch - stopping by often and having us over for dinner. And we have met wonderful new neighbors. My husband eventually got back on his feet and was able to walk again. We found that the strange blood test was due to anemia, which we are working to resolve. The loss of Zoe still makes my heart ache, but my heart is also warmed knowing that she stuck with us long enough to make sure we got to the new house safely.

Plus, we got this super-sweet picture of my husband right before he crashed head-first into the ground. Somehow he forgot he wasn't 13 anymore when he went over this awesome bike ramp. So thankful that he has recovered from his injuries.

All of these things make me smile.

We have the power as to how we react to what life throws at us. We can choose to wrap ourselves up like a burrito in the crap of it all - or rub our eyes clear and look at how life is actually doing us a solid.

So, I guess the moral of this story is: When life gives you the finger...smile and wave back. :)

Wishing you a big-picture, warm-fuzzy, smiley kind of day!

Much love,
Camille

REDRUM!: A Seasonally Affected Sugar Scrub

I just read an article in Time Magazine that talks about how Detroit has been the U.S. city hit the hardest by this extreme winter - the harshest since 1950.

This is truly no shock to me. This has been a rough one here, folks.

I know many of you reading this do live here locally, however, some do not, and may not understand how crazy this winter has been here in Detroit. For those who do not live here, it looks and feels a little something like this:

The up side to the weather? We can re-enact scenes from The Shining in our very own homes! 

The down side? We are all REALLY re-enacting scenes from The Shining in our very own homes.

Oh, about a week ago, we have all pretty much lost any scraps of sanity we had left. Did I mention I don't remember what grass looks like or that I haven't taken my hat, scarf or socks off for the last 3 months?

This weather has taken its toll, not only on our mental states, but most definitely on our skin. Even the most devoted lotion appliers are feeling the flake and itch of lizardy bodies. 

So, today, I invite all of my seasonally affected - and non-affected - friends to treat yourself to this simple, lightly foaming sugar scrub I recently concocted in a moment of winter desperation. This can be used in place of soap in the shower. It emulsifies nicely, whisks away dead, flaky skin and leaves behind a layer of protective moisture, without stripping the skin of needed oils, like soap can.

I hope it gives your skin a bit of winter respite. I crafted it with only a few simple ingredients, since my frozen fingers could only open a few jars...

********************
REDRUM!: A Seasonally Affected Sugar Scrub

3T organic sugar

3T carrier oil (I used olive, but you can also use coconut, sunflower or avocado)

1/2t castille soap (I used Dr. Bronner's Lavender, but you can use any scent or unscented)

4-5 drops of a mood lifting essential oil, such as peppermint, lavender or rosemary (optional)

Mix all ingredients well. Apply to damp skin in gentle circular motions, taking care to avoid sensitive areas, broken skin, irritations and the like. Rinse off with warm (not hot) water in the bath or shower, taking care as things can get a bit slippery from the oil in the scrub. Gently towel dry and slather a RICH, protective lotion to your entire bod to seal in moisture.
**********************
Although this winter has been absolutely brutal, it has also been very beautiful. I joke about it only so that I don't cry and roll up into a ball in my down comforter for the rest of the season. But, we have been truly blessed with a gorgeous, Normal Rockwell white winter with fluffy snowflakes and glittery icicles. 

AND, we no longer have to worry about shaving, so there's that...

Oh, and we have been able to build a second home...

And have TONS of time for indoor dressup...

I am so thankful for a warm home and loving people to share it with (that also let me put my cold feet on them to warm them up.) :)

How are you experiencing this weather? What gives you solace and keeps you from losing your bloody mind? 

Is the weather warm and shiny where you are? Really? Please tell me what it is like?!? ;)

Warm, wintery, wonderful wishes to you!

xoxo

DIY Sweet Lovin': Edible Chocolate Body Paint

The loviest, doviest day of the year is nearly here. Are you ready? 

Here is a quick and easy, last-minute DIY idea to kick your swoon-fest up a notch - DIY Chocolate Body Paint!

DIY Edible Chocolate Body Paint

1 oz organic chocolate (white, milk or dark to allow for different colors, or you can even tint white chocolate with a natural food color, like India Tree)

1 t organic coconut oil (or more to get your desired consistency)

Gently melt ingredients in a glass bowl set in a warm water bath inside of another pan (the fancy word for this is a "bain-Marie" ). Stir and use while still slightly warm (but not hot - please test the temperature before painting any body parts, for goodness sake!!!). 

Alternately, you can use 1 t or more of cocoa powder in place of the chocolate. 

You can double the recipe for more paint and any extra can be stored in a covered container and rewarmed for later use. You can even use leftovers as a moisturizing and toning face mask.

Have a super-sweet, chocolatey, sticky, love filled, ooey gooey Valentine's Day!

XOXO

I Tried It: A. Vogel Milk Thistle Complex, Molkosan Vitality & Golden Rod & Knotgrass Tea Blend

This past Monday marked the end of my A. Vogel Fourteen Day Detox and, I've got to say, it was just what I needed! By re-incorporating loads of healthy foods, plenty of fluids and exercise, my body feels back in balance after the indulgent holiday. My energy is back to normal levels. My skin and eyes are clear. And I don't feel like a big, gooey, bloated blob anymore.

What I loved most about the plan was that it was healthy, nourishing and realistic. I am not an advocate of radical "cleanses." I feel that those types of regimens focus on unrealistically depriving the body, while also upsetting it to various degrees. My thought is that the body does not need to be "cleansed" - it needs to be supported in its functions through nourishing foods, clean living and herbal allies.

To assist me with my detox, the kind folks at A. Vogel provided me with 3 supporting herbal products - Milk Thistle Complex, Molkosan® Vitality & Golden Rod & Knotgrass Cleansing Herb Tea Blend. 

Allow me to share my experiences with these products with you!

Milk Thistle Complex

Milk thistle has always been one of my plant besties, so I was really excited to try this blend of artichoke, milk thistle, dandelion, boldo and peppermint. This blend is supportive of the liver, which - ahem - I kinda needed after the holidays.

I LOVE this tincture! I have an affinity for bitter plants, so this was right up my alley. It has a wonderful bitter taste with a hint of mint on the back end. I replaced my usual bitters with this blend during the two weeks and was very pleased. While I took the Milk Thistle Complex in a bit of water as recommended, I also snuck a few drops daily - straight up - every once in awhile to savor the bitter flavor (not exceeding the recommended daily dosage of drops, of course). In fact I'm sneaking a drop right now. 

Skin eruptions are directly related to liver function (along with other factors, of course), so this was a wonderful ally to help clear up that holiday breakout.

Molkosan® Vitality

This was, by far, the most intriguing and unique product of the three. Molkosan® Vitality is a prebiotic powdered drink made from fresh, organic whey that has been fermented with a specially selected lactobacillus and also includes soluble fiber to help maintain healthy bowel function and to benefit digestion. 

The powder is mixed with a bit of water and taken about 20 minutes prior to eating. It has a very "lively" and tangy orange flavor that is best taken mixed with a bit of juice. It is also lactose, gluten and calorie free and vegetarian, so it can fit into several different dietary lifestyles.

Let's face it. Healthy Poops = Healthy Body & Skin. This product surely gets the digestion moving on its merry way, and helped me feel light as a feather - and with a flatter tummy - after just a few days. 

Golden Rod & Knotgrass Cleansing Herb Tea Blend

The Golden Rod & Knotgrass Tea was my best buddy during the detox. Given the cold temps we've had the past few weeks, a warm cup of this tea was a welcome escape that I enjoyed daily. And golden rod is one of my energetic plant allies, so I felt very comforted by this tea.

This tea contains golden rod, birch leaves, knotgrass, horsetail and wild pansy - a blend supportive of cleansing your system from the inside. This tea is described as "A gentle blend of five herbs, known for their positive effect in kidney and bladder function, will relieve fluid retention and contribute to an overall cleansing of the system, without strong detoxification reactions."

It has a beautiful color and a very mild, soothing, slightly sweet taste that feels like a nice cozy blankie.

Overall, I am so glad that I completed the detox plan. It was extra fun completing in in tandem virtually with others, including my lovely contact at A. Vogel, Annemarie.

Sometimes we just need a little kick in the pants to get back on track. :)

Disclosure: The above products were provided to me by A. Vogel for the purposes of testing and reviewing. All opinions in this post are my own personal experiences and I received no monetary compensation.

A. Vogel Fourteen Day Detox: Update & Inspiration

Today marks one week down of the A. Vogel Fourteen Day Detox, so I wanted to touch base with you all. Have you joined along in the detox? If so, how are you doing? Have you noticed any changes in your skin, your body, your mood or energy levels?

I have to say, I had a bumpy start to the detox, being snowed in and all. Stuck inside with the chilly temps lended itself to eating whatever wouldn’t run away from me. And the ever-repeating daily phone messages cancelling school for snow days (we had 6!) had me reaching for a few glasses of that leftover holiday wine. :/

But, when the kids returned to school and life got back to “normal” (is it ever really normal???) it was easy to get back on track. And, truly, this plan is so user friendly and flexible in that it supports you in making healthy, nourishing choices for your body, rather than depriving yourself on “cobwebs and cucumbers,” as Ali, the nutritionist behind the detox plan so perfectly put it!

So, here is what I have realistically incorporated into my whole life detox plan this past week:

• Omitted white flour, sugar and any processed or refined foods
• Included 4-5 extra servings of fruits and veggies (50% raw/50% cooked) per day (8-9 total)
• Sucked down a nutrient packed smoothie, when I was in the smoothie groove
• Focused on hydrating, mainly with herbal teas, but also filtered and coconut waters
• Incorporated lean protein sources - fish, turkey, beans and tons of sushi
• Attended yoga and spinning class 2 times
• Practiced meditation to calm my monkey mind
• Cut back social media to only 10-15 minutes a day (not counting writing this blog)
• Luxuriated in 2 energy clearing epsom salt baths, following a good dry body brushing
• Received an intuitive crystal reading from my friend Brandi (aka The Crystal Whisperer) to guide me in letting go of the old and letting in fresh new energy for the new year (for local folks, she does readings at Crystal Treasures and is amazing!)
• Tried to be in bed around 10pm, although this book had me up reading a bit later a few nights
• Spent time with positive and uplifting friends

Wow! It feels good writing that down. Progress. :)

So, what results have I seen so far? Well, after an initial ghastly breakout (which I expected after scarfing down all that holiday junk - toxins have to exit somewhere and it is often times through your skin), some bloating and a feeling of being mildly uncomfortable with life in general (all of which are normal with a detox), I can see the indulgent holiday behind me now with clearer skin, a clearer outlook ahead and a lot more energy. And I lost 2 pounds. Bonus!

What has inspired me this week (clockwise from left to right)?

A raw fennel and apple salad from my favorite raw foods blog - Rawmazing (photo by Rawmazing).

A super easy and yummy "Fresh Start" detox bath salt recipe - a Pinterest find from Energy We Bring (photo by Energy We Bring).

New, fancy dragonfly lotus yoga pants from Carouselink on etsy (photo by Carouselink).

This version of "Ong Namo" by one of my favorite artists, Snatam Kaur.

Ometepe perfume handcrafted by Ananda at Amrita Apothecary - delicious (photo by Amrita Apothecary).

As I head into week two of the detox, I am going to also begin incorporating a few supporting herbal products provided by the kind folks at A. Vogel. So stay tuned for a review on how these work out! 

Until then, Happy Detox! Be kind to yourself and breathe life in - and out - of your heart. Let me know how the beginning of 2014 is shaping up for you!

Why New Year's Resolutions Suck: 3 Skin Care "Intentions" You Can Start Right Now!

The season of resolutions is still fresh and real. Does this make anyone else feel super anxious? 

This time of year has always made me uneasy. Don't get me wrong - I love a fresh start. I have always just felt that the "New Year's Resolution," as a construct, is flawed. They often set one up for feeling like they have failed if they eat that one piece of cake they said they wouldn't. Resolutions can also often feel so out-of-reach or rigid that it is easy to give up.

I prefer to set "New Year's Intentions" - clear statements as to the things that will get my focus and attention for the year to come, realizing that there will be bumps along the way and curves and roadblocks along the journey - and it's all good however it turns out, as long as I gave it my all.

So, today, at the risk of sounding like a New Year's Resolution Slacker, I'm offering 3 realistic, easy and accessible "New Year's Skin Care Intentions" that you can start right this second. These are 3 of the most important things you can do to keep your skin happy and healthy and every time you do them, your skin will thank you.

Because I am a Virgo by sign, I will organize these for you by intention and action steps because sometimes I'm OCD like that. If you are a Pisces, perhaps, you can write these intentions on a napkin and either make origami out of it or lose it somewhere in your purse (not poking fun at Pisces - I've got a ton of Pisces influence in my astrology and this is something I would do). If you are a Capricorn, you could make a pie chart of this information and give it to someone else to tell them what to do (OK, I'm poking fun of my husband here). 

Anyhoo...

For those of you that have been reading this blog for awhile, you know I never shut up about hydration. But it's true. One of the easiest and best things you can do for your skin is to keep your body hydrated from the inside. (Interestingly, this is the #1 thing that my skin care clients have mentioned they are going to work toward this year.)

Skin needs proper internal hydration to stay supple, moist, fresh and to properly do jobs like feeding and making skin cells. And NO amount of moisturizer or fancy pants treatment can reverse the effect of poor internal hydration on skin.

The Intention:

This year I will strive to keep hydrated, for my skin and entire body health.

Action Steps:

Each day, I will work to include 3 extra sources of hydration in my diet (this can be in the form of water (especially coconut water), caffeine-free herbal teas, juices, herb/fruit infused waters, kefir water, kombucha or other healthy fluids.

For each caffeinated or alcoholic beverage I consume, I will consume an additional serving of a healthy fluid.

One of the most often skipped steps in skin care is exfoliation. Just as topical moisturizers can't help fix dehydrated skin, they won't be as effective on skin that is not properly exfoliated.

Skin on the face and body should be exfoliated at least once a week (or more for appropriate skin types - but please note that TOO MUCH exfoliation is actually detrimental to skin). Removing this layer of dead skin regularly is crucial to assisting the skin in functioning properly and allowing your skin care products to do their job. Slapping moisturizer on top of old, dead skin cells is like trying to clean your oven with a cotton ball - not very effective (that was a horrible analogy - sorry!).

Intention:

This year I will plan to exfoliate the skin on my face and body once a week.

Action Steps:

Once a week, I will exfoliate the skin on my face with an exfoliant suited to my skin type. 

There are about a million trillion types of exfoliants out in the world, so it is difficult for me to recommend one that is appropriate for each one of you, but the following is a quick, simple exfoliating mask recipe that is good for all skin types (granted you aren't allergic or sensitive to any of the ingredients):

A small amount of ripe papaya
A few chunks of pineapple
A dollop of yogurt or cream(milk)
A drizzle of honey 

Smash it all together in a bowl with a fork (or use an immersion blender) and apply to clean skin for 15-20 minutes. Remove with a clean, warm, damp cloth. Rinse face with warm water to remove any residue and follow with your favorite toner and moisturizer.

Once a week, on the rest of my body, I will use a body scrub and/or some other exfoliation technique, such as dry brushing, to keep my skin fresh from icky dead skin cells.

Check out this post from the past for tips on dry brushing and a recipe for a simple, effective body scrub.

A large part of skin care is protecting skin from the elements - sun, wind, extreme temperatures, environmental pollutants, dirt, debris and general funk. 

We all know it is important to wear sunscreen to protect from the sun's rays, but another good reason to wear sunscreen and other treatments that protect the skin - moisturizers, body butters, lotions, etc. - is to allow a barrier between the skin and life. This buffer can help protect delicate skin tissues from the elements and from skin sucking in environmental pollutants.

Another important reason to use these protective coatings is to allow skin to maintain proper moisture balance by helping to keep the vital moisture in the skin, rather than evaporated into the environment (the fancy word for this is Transepidermal Water Loss).

Intention:
I will use protective treatments on my face and body daily to help protect it from the environment.

Action Steps:
Each day, I will apply a protective moisturizer to my face and body, followed by healthy sun protection.

Again, it is hard to recommend one particular product that works for each of you, but some of my protective favorites are: DeVita Solar Protective Moisturizer SPF 30+, 3rd Rock Sunblock, and Deep Steep Body Butter.

Oh, and one last intention to add - more of a mantra, really:

I will not freak out if I don't do this stuff every day, but every day that I do, my skin is that much healthier. :)

A few of my intentions this year? To get back into a regular yoga practice and to write an eBook.

Now, where the heck did I put that napkin???

New Year's Reboot: Antioxidant Skin Care Smoothie

So, today feels like a great day for a life "reboot" for the new year, as I start on the A. Vogel Fourteen Day Detox. After a rather indulgent holiday break, I'm starting the day off fresh with one of my favorite healthy smoothies.  It is loaded with antioxidant ingredients to help protect your skin, so I wanted to share my recipe with you to help you in your own reboot today. :)

Blueberries are one of the best foods around to support healthy skin. They are loaded with antioxidants and phytochemicals (plant sources of nutrients) that help to neutralize free radicals that damage skin cells.They are also loaded with Vitamin C and fiber. Vitamin C aids in the repair of skin tissues and the development of collagen, while fiber helps to move toxins out of the body through the digestive system, so that they don't contribute to skin troubles.

Goji berries are another "superfood" that helps to nourish skin from the inside out. They help the skin to resist damage from the sun due to the high amounts of astaxanthin. They are also a wonderful source of Vitamin A, which can help reduce inflammation in the body and assist in healthy skin cell growth.

Bananas benefit the skin with antioxidant protection from Vitamins C and B6 and potassium, which helps boost skin's circulation. Almond milk contains antioxidant Vitamin E, which can help speed skin healing. Fresh romaine greens are also loaded with Vitamin A, which also helps regenerate skin by supporting cell turnover.

If you prefer, you can soak the goji berries in warm water ahead of time to make them softer, but I love them straight up, as they give you little chewy surprise bits. You can also make this smoothie your own with the addition of a plant-based protein powder, powdered vanilla or vanilla extract, maca powder, a few dates, a few shavings of dark chocolate, a touch of honey or whatever else your imagination dreams up!

So, drink up for skin health! Cheers!

How are you "rebooting" this New Year? 

I'd love to hear in the comments below!