Kelly Bonanno

Life & Wellness Coach & Matchmaker helping you make your next chapter your best chapter

Kelly

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How To Choose Safe Sunscreen: What To Avoid & What To Use

My happy place… a beach day with my loves

I have a confession. I love the smell of Coppertone. Despite the fact that I know that is one hell of a toxic fragrance, I love it because it brings back happy memories of exhilarating beach days and fun afternoons at our community pool. Regardless, I still don’t use it because there is no way I’m slathering those toxins on me or my kids.

I have gone so non toxic with all my products that now I am extremely sensitive to the toxic scent of synthetic fragrance. I can detect the scent a mile away and I usually cannot stand the smell but Coppertone is the exception.

One question I’m often asked is, “what sunscreen should I use,” because by now, most of know that the chemicals in most sunscreens pose serious health risks. Even mainstream western doctors admit that the chemicals found in most brands are dangerous.

One important thing to remember is that you need to wear sunscreen every single day of the year, even when it’s cloudy. The sun hits you through the window while you’re driving and even comes through the windows of your home.

I’ve written about this several times over the years. I like to do a refresh on the topic as summer approaches when we’ll be slathering our bodies and our kid’s bodies with sunscreen.

The safest sunblock is non-nanoparticle zinc oxide but if you’re curious about the common sunscreen ingredients that you should avoid, here is a rundown:

8 Ingredients You Do Not Want In Your Sunscreen

1. Oxybenzone
This hormone disruptor penetrates the skin, enters the bloodstream and behaves as estrogen in the body. It’s been shown to cause cell damage that promotes cancer, allergic reactions and even endometriosis.

The Glorious Pacific Ocean

2. 4-MBC
4-MBC is a chemical that chemical enters the bloodstream and behaves as estrogen in the body as well. It’s also been linked to cancer. Both 4-MBC and oxybenzone are such dangerous hormone disruptors that scientists are urging parents to refrain from using any product containing either on children but it’s found in most sunscreens, even those made especially for babies. 

3. Octinoxate (Octyl Methoxycinnamate)
This widely used sunscreen ingredient disrupts thyroid hormone, affects brain signaling and lab tests show that is kills mouse cells when exposed to sunlight, even at low doses.  Octinoxate and octisalate are neurotoxins that have even been shown to cause Petit Mal seizures. 

4. Avobenzone
Also known as Parsol 1789 and butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane. It generates free radicals in the body and has also been cited as an endocrine disruptor. It is unstable and sunlight causes it to break down into unknown chemicals, especially when used with octinoxate.

5. Retinyl palmitate
This is a form of vitamin A. It is an antioxidant that slows the aging process in skin which is fine for use in night creams. However, a study done by the FDA discovered a connection to cancer because it may accelerate growth in tumors and skin lesions when exposed to sunlight which makes it a dangerous ingredient for sunscreen.

The FDA does not conduct any safety testing on sunscreen. It is completely unregulated so manufacturers can use any ingredients they want. 

6. Parabens
You’ll also find parabens listed as methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben. They are found in many cosmetics as well as sunscreen. Like oxybenzone, parbens mimic the body’s natural hormones increasing the risk of various cancers.

Would you like help on how to avoid other toxins or to discuss health or weight concerns? Book your complimentary call today! 

7. Padimate O (Octyl Dimethyl PABA / PABA Ester)
This damages DNA, releases free radicals, mimics estrogen and causes allergies in some people.

8. Benzophenone 
This is one of the most commonly found ingredients in sunscreens. It is known to cause cancer in lab animals.

9. Homosalate
Causes organ system toxicity and dispruts sex hormones in animal studies.

The sunblocking ingredient you want in your sunscreen is zinc oxide made without nanotechnology. Zinc is a physical sunblock which means it reflects light back into the environment. Your skin basically does not see the sun.

Nanoparticles have been shown to cross the cell barrier driving into organs, even attaching to brain cells. They’ve also caused developmental issues in animals. Mineral sunscreens are often made with nanotechnology.

In addition to harming your health, these toxins also harm marine life. The coral reefs are being damaged and killed off. This is a major issue. Many clean sunscreens brands will say ‘reef safe’ on the bottle. If it’s safe for the beautiful coral reefs, it will be for us.

So what can we use?! Sunscreen that doesn’t have these harmful ingredients. If depends on your skin type, personal preference and how green you want to go. Do you want to completely pure and plant-based or are you OK with a few safe synthetics? Several trusted clean beauty brands make nontoxic sunscreen. I offer clients help in deciding based on skin type, needs, budget and preferences.

As with all personal care and beauty products, there’s no one size fits all but here are some good general recommendations:

**Want to make shopping for cosmetics, beauty & personal care products for you & your family easier? Grab my list of Top 12 Toxic Ingredients to avoid** 

We need sunlight. A deficiency in vitamin D3 causes a whole host of severe illnesses including. Recent studies are revealing that avoiding the sun blocks our body’s ability to produce vitamin D3.

It’s even more beneficial to get that natural vitamin D barefoot with your feet in the sand, grass, or dirt so you’re getting those wonderful grounding negative ions.

Lake Tahoe With My Cutie

Do you know someone who is looking for safe sunscreen? Send this their way and share it on Facebook, tweet it, Pin, it. Everyone needs safe sunscreen! These ingredients are especially toxic to children and babies because their delicate systems are not fully developed so they have a harder time filtering out toxins.

 “… some sunscreens are known to interfere with hormone action… could plausibly increase the risk of various cancers” -Thomas Zoeller, Endocrine Society

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Book your free Loving Life After Divorce Coaching Session

Do you feel… you’ve lost yourself in your marriage, fearful about your future, nervous about dating? I can empower you to move through the process with confidence, become the best version of you inside and out and powerfully transition to your new life that you love.

Schedule your free Loving Life After Divorce Coaching Session:     https://calendly.com/nontoxicsavvy

REQUEST A CONSULT

I am excited to speak with you and explore how I can help you navigate divorce with confidence and create a life you love. With my help, it will be easier than you can imagine. There is a path to loving life after divorce, this is the first step.

In the meantime, grab my FREE guide: Bad Advice That Keeps You Stuck In The Pain Of Your Divorce 

Book your free consultation at a time that is convenient for you. We’re available at your earliest convenience. Feel free to text 818.235.2205 or email me: kelly@kellybonanno.com.

https://kellybonanno.com/2020/05/complimentary-eco-wellness-consultation/

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Are you feeling anxious, sad, fearful, confused? It’s completely understandable and normal. Divorce is hard.

The pain divorce can cause is often devastating. Even if you are the one who initiates it or absolutely want to end the marriage the gravity of it can still hit you very hard. There’s a lot to process. That part actually surprised me.

I understand what you’re going through, I have been there. One of the most important things you can do during this difficult and uuncertain time is prioritize yourself. Take care of you.

This self-care retreat will help you do just that.

Give me a few minutes each day for a week, we’ll get your self-care game going with fun, easy, relaxing self-care and wellness activities that will improve your mood, reduce stress and give you a healthy focus.

Now more than ever devoting attention to your well-being is essential. I want to help you feel better, choose faith over fear, find peace, and relieve tension.

My free Virtual Self-Care Retreat gives you fun, simple ways to practice self-care along with self-love and self-compassion.

Self-love is acknowledging that you are enough. You matter. You are loved. The most important relationship you’ll ever have is the one with yourself. Self-love is a crucial part of the healing process. If you’re reading this thinking I don’t even know how to love myself, don’t worry you can get there with the right guidance and support. Give yourself grace.

Learn to listen to your own inner voice and feel important enough to be heard and looked after the way you care for others. Loving and nurturing yourself allows you to love and nurture others in a stronger capacity.

During this time of uncertainty trying to navigate divorce and create your next chapter, the most beneficial thing you can do is support your mind and body with positive habits that reduce anxiety and strengthen your immune system.

This virtual retreat will lift your spirits and reduce anxiety.

During this retreat, we are going to detox your lifestyle with some radical self-care and fun.

Go from overwhelm to relaxed in 7 days.

Sign up now!

This will lift your spirits and help alleviate some of the added stress and anxiety brought on by your divorce. It will help you prioritize self-care, self-love, and personal development which is crucial for your overall well being.

Do stress and anxiety harm your health and impair your immune system? Yes, but there are enjoyable ways to mitigate the harmful effects.

Each day, I’ll share fun, easy self-care and wellness activities designed to alleviate stress, anxiety and overwhelm. Enjoyable self-care – not the overused buzzword type that’s demanding and makes you feel guilty if you don’t do it!

Some activities will be purely for relaxation and well being, others will help you be more efficient and productive with your time. You’ll have access to my free private Facebook community where you can bond with like-minded individuals and get support.

This resource is everything you need to incorporate self-care and self-development into your daily routine and kick stress to the curb.

Click here to sign up for the Virtual Self-care Retreat and enjoy 7 fun, stress-reducing days devoted to you ?

Joy heals. Focusing on the positive heals.

Invite your friends to join us too!

This retreat is very important to me. I want to give you some of the tools that my clients and I use to alleviate stress and the self-care activities we enjoy to feel calm and centered during difficult times.

Creating a positive mindset and inner peace will help keep you healthy. It’s good to feel good.

Stay well. 

#lovinglifeafterdivorceselfcareretreat 

https://kellybonanno.com/2020/04/the-savvy-girls-virtual-self-care-retreat-giveaway/

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10 Ways To Go Green & Reduce Your Carbon Footprint For Earth Day

Happy Earth Day

50 years ago today, 20 million Americans held demonstrations across the country rallying for a healthy, sustainable environment. We still face many of the same environmental issues as we did on that first Earth Day when founder, Gaylord Nelson, a Wisconsin Senator at the time, was inspired to make a difference after the devastation of the 1969 oil spill in Santa Barbara, a beautiful coastal town here in Southern California.

  “What’s the use of a fine house if you haven’t got a tolerable home planet to put it on?”

~Henry David Thoreau

The hippie chick inside this eco advocate considers every day Earth Day ?The theme this year is Climate Action. Celebrate by connecting with your inner flower child and take action by implementing one (or all!) of these eco-friendly habits:

  • Conserve Energy Shut lights off when you leave a room, use energy efficient light bulbs in all your fixures, and reduce phantom energy drains by unplugging electronics when they’re not in use. This will save you money too. 
  • Compost Like An Eco Boss  This seems like a rather big project but it’s actually not. You just need to get it set up. It turns food scraps into a rich additive for soil that helps plants thrive but if it’s not done right it can be a smelly mess. Learn how with Master gardener, Stacey Murphy. You’ll also find helpful tips at The Spruce. If gardening is a form of your self-care, you’ll like composting. After a few weeks you’ll have crumbly compost for your lawn and garden. Many cities even provide you with a free composting bin which certainly makes it far easier. Check with your municipality to find out if they offer that service.
  • Eat Less Meat Livestock production emits more greenhouse gas and uses a huge amount of land and water. In his enlightening book, Food Fix: How to Save Our Health, Our Economy, Our Communities, and Our Planet–One Bite at a Time, Dr. Mark Hyman, Chairman, Institute for functional medicine, says that our food system is the number one cause of climate change. Loss of soil, factory farming of animals, processing and food waste are some of the contributing factors.

Click here to watch my Earth Day live stream on Facebook

  • Shop local And Shop Consciously  Buy less, recycle more, upcycle and seek businesses that are environmentally focused.
  • Detox Your Home Occupy your time during lockdown by creating a healthier, less toxic home. You are currently spending more time inside your home than ever. The environment inside your home is up to TEN TIMES more polluted than it is outside. I cannot impress upon you enough how important it is to create a less toxic home. Environmental toxins impair your immune system and wreak havoc on your health. I know it’s daunting and overwhelming, that’s exactly why I created my easy workshop-style course:  The Home Detox Masterclass will remove the overwhelm, save you an abundance of time and you will avoid the hassle of being greenwashed. This makes it easy for you to learn the steps you need to clean up your indoor environment, reduce your toxic load, and minimize your carbon footprint. (In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, I’m keeping it at the very low introductory rate for a limited time – grab it for $37. Tell a friend.) Imagine how relieved you’ll be when you know exactly what to do and what to use. What better way to celebrate Earth Day?!  Click here to learn more & register.

If you are concerned about climate change, make some eco friendly changes in your own home. What’s going on in your home affects the earth. 

It starts with you.

  • Clean Hair Care Is Best For Humans and Mother Nature Make the switch to clean, non toxic hair care. Americans poor hundreds of millions of gallons of shampoo down the drain each year. The waste water treatment plants in this country are designed to remove bacteria but not toxic chemicals so that contamination can end up back into our water supply. Using clean beauty and personal care products is very beneficial to your health as well as the planet.
  • Drive Less, Bike And Walk Way More Wonderful for the environment, your wallet and your waistline.
  • Burning Clean Candles Paraffin candles emit toxic chemicals such as benzene, toulene, and keytones into the air and many wicks contain heavy metals. Soy and palm oil candles are hydrogenated and often contain paraffin. Soy can be a safe option if it’s non GMO. Beeswax and coconut wax are clean, safe options.

The EPA ranks indoor air pollution one of the top five environmental health risks

  • Green Your Beauty Routine This is good for the planet and it will reduce your toxic load which is super healthy for you. Click here for tips to make it easy.
  • Plant A Beautiful Tree This is a great thing to do with your family while you’re in lockdown. Even one tree has a positive impact on the earth. They absorb carbon dioxide, release oxygen into the atmosphere, help regulate the water cycle and provide food and habitat for wildlife and humans.

In light of this pandemic, it’s more important than ever that you create a healthy, less toxic home and personal care routine. Environmental toxins found in homes account for an estimated 75%-80% of cancer cases and deaths in the US.

 

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7 Good Reasons to Practice Yoga

Yoga is rich in benefits for the mind, body, and spirit

Yoga studios have been popping up everywhere in the last few years. It’s like Starbucks, seems like there’s one on every corner, right?! It’s more popular than ever, with over 20 million Americans practicing. I have been an avid yogini on and off for more than 20 years. Unfortunately, I’ve been more ‘off’ for too long. I do plenty of cardio and strength training and I’m usually good about doing some yogic stretches afterward but haven’t had the steady yoga practice that I used to. I miss it! 

In fact, I was just telling a friend at lunch the other day that I want to commit to a regular practice again. Honestly, I see and feel a clear difference in both the way I look and feel when yoga is a regular part of my fitness routine. Writing this has inspired me and now I’ve put it out there, you can hold me accountable! Check back in a few weeks to see where I’m at 😉 

A good yoga session leaves you with an inner peace that stays with you throughout the day. The mind body experience of yoga has benefits that go beyond leaner muscles and a more zen state of being. No chanting necessary, so roll out your yoga mat and strike a pose.

yogasakti-_292

The Mind Body Connection
In yoga, you focus on your breathing, as well as what your body is doing and how it is feeling and reacting to each pose. That focus carries through to other aspects of your life. “I think the most important benefit of a yoga practice is learning how to replace habits with mindfulness,” says Leeann Carey, founder, Yāpana by Leeann Carey Yoga. “Mindfulness is a strategy for turning knowing into doing and being. It is more than striking a yoga pose. It is about noticing what you are doing and how you are doing it. A yoga practice is a method for implementing this.”

Increased Strength and Stamina Yoga doesn’t just make you more flexible, it really makes your muscles strong. You work all of your body parts and many of the poses take a tremendous amount of strength, particularly when you challenge your body to hold them for at least five breaths. I notice a lot more definition when I practice yoga on a regular basis. A good yoga class really works me and I love it.

Stress Reduction

Yoga has a calming effect on the nervous system. Stress causes a PLETHORA of health problems, seriously, it’s a killer. Anything you can do to manage stress will be unbelievably beneficial. Mindful breathing is one of the best things you can do to bring your stress levels down. In yoga, you focus on your breath as you move from pose to pose. Yoga has been shown to increase levels of a chemical in your brain that helps decrease anxiety known as GABA (gamma-amniobutyric). That wonderful afterglow of yoga known as the “yoga buzz” keeps you energized and calm.

Pain Relief

The Group Health  Research Institute in Seattle recently conducted a study where they found that 60 percent of their subjects suffering from chronic back pain reported significant relief after just 12 yoga classes.

Weight Loss

There isn’t a huge amount of research regarding yoga and weight loss but studies have shown a correlation. Carey says she has seen countless students lose weight through yoga, “There are plenty of styles of yoga that promote weight loss — some that are more aerobic than others. But the most important and enduring effect is a mindful lifestyle which supports overall healthy choices in food, activity, thought, and action in all things,” says Carey.

It Just Might Reduce Inflammation 

Inflammation is the primary cause of disease and aging. Reducing toxic load and maintaining a healthy weight are huge factors in keeping inflammation in check. The Journal of Clinical & Diagnostic Research reported a study that found individuals who practiced yoga had lower inflammatory markers levels than those who didn’t.

Yoga Is for Everyone

It doesn’t matter what your fitness  level is or how old you are, there are modifications for each pose that allow everyone to practice and reap the benefits. Yoga is now mainstream; it’s easy to find a good class. There are several different types of yoga, so do a little research and find the best fit for you. Be sure to choose a reputable yoga studio with skilled instructors. It is crucial that they know how to teach proper alignment and make necessary adjustments in the poses to avoid injuries. Namaste 

Yoga tree pose

This post was originally published in 2016, it has been updated and revised for your enjoyment.

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Giveaway! Enter To Win Pure & Coco Skincare AND Home Detox Masterclass & Coaching!

Enter for your chance to win Pure & Coco Skincare products AND Kelly’s Eco Wellness Coaching. Meet Pure & Coco founder, Rene Bartosh, and hear how she helps people naturally relieve dry skin and eczema with her inspiring Pure & Coco story. She also shares some of her top skincare and clean beauty tips!

One very lucky winner will receive the following prizes worth over $200:

Pure & Coco Moisturizing Exfoliators

Luxe Stainless Steel Spoon for Moisturizing Exfoliators

Bamboo Facial Washcloth

Cosmetic Travel Bag

Kelly’s Home Detox Masterclass

1:1 Eco Wellness Session With Kelly

Check out our interview:

Pure & Coco Moisturizing Exfoliators

  • Pure cane sugar gently removes the barrier of dead skin cells which blocks creams, oils, and lotions from properly absorbing into the skin, all without burning or irritating sensitive skin
  • Gently removes dry skin, flaking skin, & moisturizes to soothe itching eczema skin overnight
  • Helps even out skin tone, minimizes pores and calms redness
  • Dermatologist approved for use on your face & body, safe for daily use
  • Organic Virgin Cold Pressed Coconut Oil leaves skin feeling soft and moisturized-not greasy

Luxe Stainless Steel Spoon for Moisturizing Exfoliators

  • This perfectly sized spoon scoops up the exact amount needed every time of your favorite Moisturizing Exfoliator
  • Easily scoop out the perfect amount each time
  • Helps manicures stay looking fresh longer because you no longer have to use your fingertips to scoop out the product
  • Keeps excess water out of product
  • Perfect for stirring if the product becomes separated from heat or hard from cold temperatures
  • Crafted from 18/10 stainless steel, resists rust and holds its polish well
  • Dishwasher safe

Cosmetic Travel Bag

  • This generously sized cosmetic bag can carry all of your favorite Pure & Coco skincare products, including a large Moisturizing Exfoliator, and plenty of room for all of your makeup
  • Convenient zippered compartment with breathable mesh fabric to safely store your makeup brushes
  • Removable dividers so you can customize the bag to your specific needs
  • Waterproof material, sturdy handle for carrying
  • Soft material for easy cleaning and storage

Bamboo Facial Washcloth

  • No more sharing the family bath towel to dry your face. These 100% Pure Bamboo washcloths are naturally anti-microbial and anti-bacterial perfectly suited for sensitive facial skin types
  • Using a separate towel for your face prevents transferring bodily bacteria onto your face
  • Double layered for extra absorbency and thickness
  • Machine washable

Kelly’s Home Detox Masterclass

Learn how to:

  • Go green
  • Detox your home
  • Reduce your body’s toxic burden
  • Reduce your risk of illness
  • Reduce your carbon footprint
  • Adopt healthy home habits
  • Eliminate chemical-filled commercial products from your home and daily routine
  • Eliminate and avoid toxins commonly found in households and everyday products
  • Learn about harmful chemicals commonly used in household products & which health risk they pose
  • Implement the best strategies to help ensure your home is as healthy and non-toxic as possible
  • Easily implement eco-friendly household habits and methods
  • Transition to clean, effective products for the home
  • Eliminate toxins and create a healthy indoor environment
  • Prevent long term health issues caused by environmental toxins
  • Choose healthy, safe, effective household products
  • Protect our ecosystem and help create a cleaner environment
  • Avoid being greenwashed ever again

Includes worksheets, handouts, pocket guides and a comprehensive list of my top favorite household lines that are safe and effective (cleaning products, candles, water filters, and more.)

In light of this pandemic, it’s more important than ever to create a healthy, less toxic home and personal care routine. Toxins lower immunity and wreak havoc on your health.

1:1 Eco Wellness Session With Kelly

  • We’ll reduce your body’s toxic burden by working on any aspect of green living  and wellness that you choose: beauty, personal care, home, lifestyle, nutrition or a combination
  • I will provide you with the very best plan to effectively detox your beauty and personal care routine to support long-term health, without stress or overwhelm
  •  Start/continue transitioning to the right clean beauty & personal care products for your skin type, preferences and budget
  • Learn how to balance nutrition and stabilize blood sugar levels so you can release unwanted weight and stop yo yo dieting
  • I will help you create a plan based on your needs and the type of skincare, beauty and/or home products that you want and need to make your green journey easier and more glamorous
  • Ask Kelly all your questions about clean beauty, eco friendly living, the products you currently use, which products you should use, nutrition and more

The prize is valued at over $200!

Enter and tag a clean beauty loving friend! Good luck!

A votre sante

xo Kelly & Rene

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Savvy Girl’s Premiere Virtual Self Care Retreat & Giveaway

Are you feeling out of sorts? A bit more anxious than usual? It’s completely understandable. This unprecedented situation has most everyone stressed out and overwhelmed.

April happens to be National Stress Awareness month, quite timely given what we’re going through with COVID-19, isn’t it?

For most of us, the situation is frightening, confusing and inconvenient but for some, it’s downright devastating. People have lost their lives, others are fighting for their lives and many are facing serious financial hardships.

I truly hope each of you reading this are healthy and safe. If you or a loved one has fallen ill, my heart goes out to you.

It’s on my heart to help you feel supported during this pandemic. To accomplish that, I am offering a free Virtual Self-Care Retreat.

Join us for 10 days of healthy, relaxing activities to make your time at home less stressful and more productive and enjoyable ?

Now more than ever devoting attention to your well-being is essential. The current global climate has people on edge and fearful. The shelter in place has many feeling overwhelmed and disoriented. You’re trying to stay healthy, doing your part to prevent the spread of coronavirus while navigating this new normal, albeit temporary. But some things will change for good.

I want to help you turn that around, choose faith over fear, find peace and relieve tension. We’re not stuck at home, we’re safe at home. Let’s make the most of it.

My Virtual Self-Care Retreat gives you fun, simple ways to practice self-care along with self-love and self-compassion. Self-love is acknowledging that you are enough. You matter. You are loved. The most important relationship you’ll ever have is the one with yourself. Learn to listen to your own inner voice and feel important enough to be heard and looked after the you care for others. Loving and nurturing yourself allows you to love and nurture others in a stronger capacity.

During this time of uncertainty trying to avoid coronavirus and adhere to the social distancing mandate, the most beneficial thing you can do is support your mind and body with positive habits that reduce anxiety and strengthen your immune system.

This virtual retreat will help improve mood and reduce anxiety during this challenging time while normal life is on hold. Sign up and join us, everyone who participates will be entered to win a self-care clean beauty bundle!

I’m known for helping people go green and improve health by reducing toxic load caused by environmental toxins but other things cause a different type of toxicity that I help people mitigate. Stress, fear, anxiety, pessimism are all toxic to your system. A strong immune system is vital right now, read this blog post for tips to boost yours: 5 Powerful Ways To Strengthen your Immune System During This Pandemic 

During this retreat, we are going to detox your lifestyle with some radical self-care and fun.

Go from overwhelm to relaxed in 10 days.

We start on

World Health Day

Tuesday, April 7th

Sign up now for the next retreat!

We’re all in this together, joining a community in the name of self-love with like-minded individuals will lift your spirits and offer a welcomed distraction.

Do stress and anxiety harm your health and impair your immune system? Yes, but there are enjoyable ways to mitigate the harmful effects.

Each day, I’ll share fun, easy self-care and wellness activities designed to alleviate stress, anxiety and overwhelm. Enjoyable self-care – not the overused buzzword type that’s demanding and makes you feel guilty if you don’t do it!

Some activities will be purely for relaxation and well being, others will help you be more efficient and productive with your time at home. You’ll have access to my free private Facebook community where you can bond with like-minded individuals and get support.

This resource is everything you need to incorporate self-care and self-development into your daily routine and kick stress to the curb.

Whether you are extra busy and overwhelmed working from home while homeschooling or find yourself with more time on your hands than usual and perhaps bored, this retreat will benefit you. I will be sending you emails and replays of all the Facebook live streams so you can complete activities on your own time.

Click here to sign up for the Virtual Self-care Retreat and enjoy 10 fun, stress-reducing days devoted to you. Joy heals. Focusing on the positive heals.

All participants have a chance to win a self-care clean beauty bundle! Enter the giveaway on the form below. 

Invite your friends to join us too!

This retreat is very important to me. I want to give you the tools that I use to alleviate my stress and the self-care activities my clients and I enjoy to feel calm and centered during these difficult times.

Creating a positive mindset and inner peace will help keep you healthy. It’s good to feel good.

Stay well.

Sign up here now for the next Virtual Self-Care Retreat and to enter the new giveaway click here.     #savvygirlsvirtualretreat 

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10 Tips To Make Going Green Easy In 2020 #ReduceYourToxicLoad

I hope this shiny new decade is off to a fabulous start for you! There’s something very exciting about starting fresh with a brand new year and diving into a world of possibilities, isn’t there? With this being a new decade it feels there’s even more promise!

I am so ready for a phenomenal year, it got off to a great start with a weekend in Palm Springs where I attended Level Up Live, a fantastic business conference with Allison Maslan, CEO and Founder of Pinnacle Global Network and author of Scale Or Fail. It was a powerful weekend full of inspiration and valuable takeaways. If you are a business owner I highly recommend attending her next event. What a motivating way to start 2020!

How is your 2020 so far? Many of us have big plans when a new year begins making lofty resolutions we vow to achieve. Unfortunately, most falter by February because creating habits on our own isn’t easy.

I don’t necessarily make resolutions but it is a good time to make some positive changes. Mine is getting back to a regular yoga practice. I miss it.

New Year’s resolutions typically involve some type of health improvement, does yours? I recommend going green because living an eco friendly lifestyle reduces your toxic load which improves your health a great deal because toxicity levels in your system can wreak havoc on your health. The healthiest individuals make detoxing a natural part of their daily routine.

Your health and longevity are largely determined by your lifestyle, only about 25% is dictated by your genetics. One of the most important things that you can do to improve your health is to reduce your toxic load. This requires detoxing our personal care and beauty routines and our home environments. The good news, it’s really not difficult and I am here to help you do it.

A healthy, eco friendly lifestyle is not a luxury. Detoxing your lifestyle is simply not an option if you want to be healthy.

The truth is, we live in an extremely toxic world. Whether you are just beginning your green journey or you are already living a pretty clean life but want to go further, all steps to detoxing will improve your health. Period. Try this eco detox for 2020. Even small changes will make a difference.

  • Start your day with a detoxifying drink. A cup of warm water with the juice of 1 organic lemon will set you up with a healthy start to your day by helping to flush the kidneys, aid digestion, boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, balance pH levels and the acidity stimulates liver to produce acids that help detox the body… how about all those benefits without much work?! Oh and you’ll also get a nice dose of potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, vitamin B and C and other antioxidants, which all help combat wrinkles savvy girls! 
  • Sip your cuppa sustainably Another disposable item habit to break is coffee pods, 30 million go to the landfills each day. Start using reusable K-cups for Keurig. You’ll save money and help out the beautiful planet.
  • Ecofy your cleaning routine Use products that do not contain harmful toxins to clean your home, car, and office. Just like using non toxic personal care products, this is far healthier for the environment and your family, including your pets.
  • Steer clear of Bisphenol A I have written about the dangers of BPA in several posts over the years. It’s found in everything from plastic containers to the lining of canned foods to cash register receipts. BPA is problematic because it imitates estrogen so it disrupts our endocrine system and messes with hormones. It’s been associated with many cancers including breast cancer. The truth is, most plastic has estrogenic chemicals so it’s healthy to avoid plastic as much as possible.
  • Toss toxic air fresheners  Exposure even just once a week can increase your odds of developing asthma by as much as 71% and can contribute to an increase in pulmonary diseases. Plus there is no evidence that they disinfect the air in any way but research is showing that chemicals in these products harm us. Try Master Blaster, it eliminates odors and blasts stain (even tough laundry stains) or Unearthed room sprays.
  • Use cute reusable water bottles  You know sipping your daily h20 intake from plastic water bottles is no good because of the BPA and phthalates not to mention how horrible they are for the environment.

Being green might not have been easy for Kermit but it can be for you

  • Recycle  Every ton of paper we recycle, saves 17 trees, 7000 gallons of water, 380 gallons of oil so recycle it! About 40% of landfill waste is paper!
  • Use Less Water  Take shorter showers & turn off the water while brushing your teeth, washing your face and hands.
  • Use Clean Beauty & Personal Care Products  What goes on your body doesn’t just affect you and your health, they harm our precious environment. When you reduce your own personal exposure to toxins with clean beauty you reduce your contribution of dangerous chemicals getting back into our environment. Click here for a list of quality brands. Our government is not making sure our products are safe so we need to choose them wisely.
  • Steer Clear of Traditional Dry Cleaners  Even trace amounts of the commonly used solvent perchloroethylene [perc] has been labeled as a ‘likely human carcinogen’ by the EPA. Start patronizing green dry cleaners or don’t buy as much ‘dry clean only’ garments. You’ll save money and the environment. Women spend roughly $1500 a year on dry cleaning bills!
  • Here’s a bonus tip: DITCH TOXIC DEODORANT & ANTIPERSPIRANT! I’m sure you heard by now that they contain parabens (which mimic the body’s natural hormones increasing the risk of breast and other cancers) and aluminum. Both have been found in breast cancer tissue. Our underarms absorb even more than other areas of our skin. Want a safe, healthy alternative that actually works ALL day and night? You’ll find it here in my list of clean personal care products that I approve. My favorite is Pure Haven because it works.

There you have it, a new year’s detox that doesn’t require fasting or juicing. How about that? Pretty easy way to detox, right?!

If you’d to like go further in creating a healthier indoor environment, check out my masterclass: Go Green And Create A Healthy, Eco Friendly Home. 

This short, workshop-style course gives you a deep dive into detoxifying your home and going green to reduce your family’s toxic load and carbon footprint.

And if you want to green your beauty routine grab The Savvy Girl’s Guide To Clean Beauty: Look Younger Without Harmful Chemicals In 10 Easy Steps.

Be sure to enter my latest giveaway for your chance to win Pure & Coco Skincare products and cosmetic bag, my Home Detox Masterclass and a 1:1 Eco Wellness coaching session with me ~ prize valued over $200!

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Top Benefits Of Omegas 3, 6 & 9 For Beautiful, Healthy Skin

Guest post contributed by Emily Woodman of Arya Derm

Omega fatty acids have numerous health benefits, many of which are yet to be unraveled. What we know so far is that they have tremendously positive effects on the heart, bones and skin, They also support mental health, reduce weight, help fight inflammation and decrease liver fat. Some studies suggest omegas prevent dementia, bipolar disorder and asthma.

How Do Omegas Work?

Some 90 percent of dietary fats come in the shape of triglycerides, which are composed of glycerol and fatty acids. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are components of cell membranes that help fight inflammations and regulate blood pressure.

Our bodies can produce most of the fatty acids, with the exception of linoleic acid (LA) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Because they need to be consumed through the diet, they are called “essential fatty acids.”

Recommended daily intake for LA and ALA stands at 4 percent and 0.5 percent of the total energy, respectively. EPA and DHA, recommended daily intake is 250 mg a day. Dietary sources of Omega-3s include fish, fish oils and plants rich in a-linolenic acid (grains and oils). 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

There are numerous types of omega-3s, with the three most common ones being eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). 

EPA produces eicosanoids, which are the chemicals responsible for reducing inflammation and fighting depression.

DHA makes up ca. 8 percent of brain weight and is, hence, of extreme importance when it comes to normal brain development.

ALA is used as an energy source and can be converted into EPA and DHA, to a degree.

 Foods with Omegas are healthy but do you find it challenging planning ahead & eating healthy when you have a hectic schedule? It’s overwhelming!

Click here for a free Healthy Eating On The Go guide with simple tips & habits along with several delicious, nutritious options to grab & go making it easy to eat healthy even when you are pressed for time.

Omega-6 Fatty Acids

Omega-6s serve primarily as an energy source. The most common one is linoleic acid, which can be converted into arachidonic acid (ARA). ARA produces eicosanoids, which fight inflammation.

However, the production of too many eicosanoids may increase the risk of inflammation diseases, hence omega-6s should be taken in moderation. The modern Western diet contains more omega-6s than the body needs.

Other notable omega-6s include gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). 

Omega-9 Fatty Acids

Omega-9 fats can be produced by the body, but consuming foods rich in them has numerous beneficial health effects, nevertheless. For one thing, they reduce triglycerides and cholesterol levels.

The most common omega-9 is oleic acid, a major energy source for cells that regulates the biosynthesis of numerous essential metabolites.

Omegas and the Skin

As stated above, omegas are anti-inflammatories, which means that they protect the skin from inflammation and the UV rays. Thus, they keep the skin hydrated, fighting the appearance of wrinkles. 

Omega-3s prevent and treat various skin conditions, including psoriasis. The latter is normally treated by dietary and supplemental Omega-3s. Omega-3s decrease the risk of skin cancer, photo-aging, atopic skin conditions and sunburn.

The metabolism of LA and ALA is limited to the skin, while both omega-3s and omega-6s influencing the inflammatory response of the skin. 

It is important to understand that omegas work best when ingested. Many people believe that applying them topically will suffice, but that is not exactly the case. In fact, there are only two fatty acids that need to be applied topically: oleic and linoleic acid.

Being a major structural component of the skin, DHA takes care of cell membranes. EPA regulates hydration and oil production of the skin, as well as premature aging. It reduces the risk of acne and prevents hyperkeratinization (the cells lining the inside of a hair follicle).

On top of regulating inflammation, omega-3s help prevent the development of psoriasis, rosacea, scaling, erythema and acne. One of the major functions of the omega-3s is to decrease insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and to reduce scaling, erythema and pruritis.

Sources of Omega Fatty Acids

Foods high in omega-3 fats include fish, fish oil, nuts, seeds and algal oil.

Amounts per 100 grams of the common omega-3 rich foods are: 

  •       Salmon: 4g EPA and DHA
  •       Mackerel: 3g EPA and DHA
  •       Sardines: 2.2g EPA and DHA
  •       Anchovies: 1g EPA and DHA
  •       Chia seeds: 4.9g ALA
  •       Walnuts: 2.5g ALA
  •       Flaxseeds: 2.3g ALA

 Omega-6 fats are found in refined vegetable oils, nuts and seeds.

 Amounts per 100 grams of the common omega-6 rich foods are:

  •       Soybean oil: 50g
  •       Corn oil: 49g
  •       Mayonnaise: 39g
  •       Walnuts: 37g
  •       Sunflower seeds: 34g
  •       Almonds: 12g
  •       Cashew nuts: 8g

 Similar to omega-6s, omega-9 fats are found in refined vegetable oils, nuts and seeds.

 Amounts per 100 grams of the common omega-9 rich foods are:

  •       Olive oil: 83g
  •       Cashew nut oil: 73g
  •       Almond oil: 70g
  •       Avocado oil: 60g
  •       Peanut oil: 47g
  •       Almonds: 30g
  •       Cashews: 24g
  •       Walnuts: 9g

 Recommended daily amounts for ALA:

  •       Men: 1.6 g
  •       Women: 1.1 g
  •       Pregnant women: 1.4 g
  •       Children 1 to 3: 0.7 g
  •       Children 4 to 8: 0.9 g
  •       Boys 9 to 13: 1.2 g
  •       Girls 9 to 13: 1.0 g
  •       Teenage boys: 1.6 g
  •       Teenage girls: 1.1 g

Omega Fatty Acids: General Benefits

Much has been said about the benefits of essential oils with new discoveries never failing to deliver. It is true that we still have a lot to learn, but the facts we are already aware of speak in favor of omega fatty acids.

 Skin health benefits of omegas go deeper than just the surface. A healthy body spells healthy skin, so it is crucial to eat a balanced diet instead of simply taking supplements.

 After all, it has been proven that communities consuming a fish-based diet have low heart attack and stroke rates, with consumers’ triglyceride levels being decreased by 15 to 30 percent. On top of that, they also have higher HDL cholesterol levels (“good cholesterol”).

 Finally, EPA alone helps fight anxiety and depression. These are the world’s two sole most common mental illnesses, with anxiety disorders affecting 18.1 percent of the U.S. population every year, and MDD (major depressive disorder) and PDD (persistent depressive disorder) combined affecting 9.2 percent of people.

 That being said, concluding how a balanced diet rich in omega fatty acids is beneficial on multiple levels should not be a difficult leap. Take good care of your skin and overall health at all times.

By

20 Tips To Avoid Holiday Weight Gain (and maybe even lose a few LBs!)

Eat, drink & be very merry without holiday weight gain

It’s said the average person gains at least 1 – 2 (some sources report an average of 5 – 7) pounds during the holidays. I’ve even heard of the festive 15! Yikes. Even if it is only 1, statistics show that most people don’t lose it so those extra LBs add up year after year. Not to mention weight put on during other times of the year due to celebrations, vacations, various events and stress.

This is a fun time of year but all the parties, happy hour, holiday shopping, gift wrapping and erratic schedules can throw off your routine… it can all be a recipe for disaster when it comes to maintaining a healthy diet and staying slim. But it doesn’t have to!

This is such a fun time of year. Although, it can be hectic – I literally have something going on nearly every night between now and Christmas! However, I am making a concerted effort to be extremely mindful of living in the moment and enjoy the holiday parties, decorations, corny Christmas movies, moments with my boys, the festive sites around the town, the chill in the air – yes even in Los Angeles, it’s 45° as I write this tonight! 

It’s easy for weight to creep on even when we aren’t celebrating and throwing caution to the wind so being mindful and adopting good habits throughout the holidays will set you up for success.

It’s not always easy for me, believe me. I eat well and take care of myself so I’m usually at a good weight but I fluctuate and it sucks when clothes fit a little tighter. Ugh. But I learned how to stop the fluctuation. I’ll share that with you too because why should you wait till January, drop a few pounds now, you’ll look hot for all the holiday festivities and 2020 won’t be another year that weight loss tops your list of resolutions.

I share more tips in my video series: How To Avoid Holiday Weight Gain  Part 1, Part 2, Part 3.

Tips & habits I swear by

Eat protein with each meal Protein helps keep you satiated and it’s key for preserving muscle mass.

Don’t party hungry  Eat something healthy and low calorie before you head out. This will help you eat less since you won’t be starving.

Bring it Bring something healthy and delicious to those potlucks so there will be at least one thing at the table you can enjoy that won’t be loaded with saturated fat.

Get plenty of sleep Watch your caffeine throughout the day and don’t drink any in the afternoon. Have your magnesium levels checked, a deficiency can affect sleep. Inadequate amounts of sleep can cause a spike ghrelin,the hunger hormone and a dip in leptin, the hormone that signals satiety.

Fill up on the good stuff  Enjoy the treats and special main courses but pile your plate with lots of veggies and fruit to help fill you up.

Sneak in exercise  Make all that running around work for you. Walk briskly, take stairs & take the long way around the mall. Instead of meeting a friend for coffee, chat while you power walk together. Take a family walk after dinner.

You absolutely CAN avoid packing on the LBs this holiday season! 

Dance! Step away from the food table and socialize on the other side of the room away from the spread. Burn major calories on the dance floor. Whatever you do, don’t mindlessly chat and graze when you’re not even genuinely hungry.

Fill up on fiber Eat your veggies first, the fiber will help you feel satiated so you’ll be less likely to fall prey to unhealthy choices.

Go Green Use clean, non toxic beauty and personal care products. Toxins are stored in our fat cells. Many of them are endocrine disrupting obesegens that promote fat storage, can alter metabolism as well as the balance of lipid metabolism in promoting calorie storage as opposed to burning them. 

Manage that stress Stress is a recipe for disaster when it comes to weight management. It can cause cortisol levels to spike which can impede weight loss. De-stress in ways that feel good for you… reading, meditation, working out, playing with your dog, getting out in nature, sex… whatever de-stresses you, do it!

Be festive Focus on your family, friends and new acquaintances. Put the emphasis on the experience and making memories.

Self Care You must take time for yourself during the holidays, especially if it’s a particularly stressful, anxiety-ridden time of year for you.

Stay hydrated  Drink plenty of water, sometimes thirst signals as hunger. Dehydration can also cause fatigue.

It’s about creating habits, these are principles and strategies you can use throughout the entire year

Go sparingly Rather than piling a few slices of cheese in your sandwiches, just add one, you’ll still get that cheesy flavor minus up to a few hundred calories.

Limit taste tests  Calories can really add up when you mindlessly nibble here and there. Eat only while you’re sitting down and enjoying your food. It’s so much more enjoyable that way anyway.

Plan ahead This is a really important one. It can save you from making fattening, unhealthy food choices. When you’re running around shopping and doing all the extra stuff we do during the holidays. Arm yourself with healthy snacks.

Planning ahead & eating healthy when you’re crazy busy can be a challenge, for a quick and easy list that will make this easier for you, download my free guide:

The Savvy Girl’s Guide To Healthy Eating On The Go

Walk it off  On the phone? Walk and talk outside or in the hallways. Walk wherever you can.

Stop when you’re satisfied Pay attention to your satiety, take a few deep breaths. Control your thoughts, eat only when you’re hungry. When you’re starting to get full but continue eating you’ll be stuffed and uncomfortable. Doing this often is where extra pounds come from.

Commit to staying on track Make your mind up to do it. Like anything you truly want to accomplish, it starts with your commitment. Food is fuel. It is not comfort or a reward.

Decide before you partake Make the decision before you go to each festivity that you are either going to stay on track or allow yourself to indulge. If you do, enjoy it. Count it as your cheat meal.

Bonus Tip If you do indulge more than you planned here and there, don’t beat yourself up. Live a little, enjoy it, have fun and move on. It’s just one meal and you can snap back into good habits quickly. What you resist, persists. If you are not feeling it, if you’re not in alignment with watching what you eat then give yourself a break without getting too off course and get back on track when it feels in alignment for you.

As my wise mom always said, everything in moderation. Don’t go hog wild just because it’s the holidays but don’t completely deprive yourself either. Have a few of your mom’s famous Christmas cookies, not a whole plate. Balance with small portions and eat until you are satisfied, not stuffed. Sounds simple but it works. You’ll be happy when you’re not faced with trying to lose 5 extra pounds come January.

How does holiday weight loss sound? 

If you do gain, I can help you take it off with ease. Or maybe you want to lose a few to look and feel your healthiest and most gorgeous for the holidays? You can!

The things we need to do to maintain weight and even lose weight are really rather simple but they’re not easy. However, they certainly get easier as they become your new normal. Build on the habits day by day and they will become second nature.

It’s not always easy for me, believe me. I like to indulge just as much as anyone. I’m usually at a good weight but I have always fluctuated. I eat right, exercise and live a healthy lifestyle but sometimes I’m up 5-7 pounds which does not feel good on me. I know, not a lot of weight, I keep it in perspective but it’s not comfortable on my small frame. I have an hourglass figure, I’m not trying to keep my curves at bay, I simply feel better and like the way my clothes fit when I’m at my smaller size. That hourglass can easily look like it has too many hours if I’m not careful!

Let me be clear, this is about being healthy and maintaining a weight that you are comfortable with, it is not about being skinny or trying to look a certain way. It’s a personal choice. Sure, being at a healthy weight is vital to your overall health but there’s a range of healthy weight. Two people can be the same height and bone structure, have a 15 pound weight difference but they can both be healthy and look great. Was I unhealthy with that 8 pounds? No, but I’m more comfortable without it. Furthermore, I like having sexy curves! I have a small frame but I’m going to have a J Lo booty no matter what size I am!

That being said, if you are several or even just a few pounds over where you want to be, then get rid of it.

A mere 10% reduction in body weight reduces your risk of various weight-related diseases by 50%!

They say losing weight is easy, keeping it off is hard. Frankly, freaking losing weight can be hard which is why I’m happy that I learned how to make both pretty damn easy for me and my clients.

If you’d like to learn more and have a free clarity call consultation, click here to book a time that is convenient for you.

Grab your FREE Healthy Eating On The Go Guide for more tips, suggestions and inspiration! 

Be sure to check out the video series: How To Avoid Holiday Weight Gain

Have fun & indulge in a bevy of holiday merriment this holiday season

A votre sante!