Why I take my own nail polish to the salon...

What the heck is Glyoxal?  I recently asked this question after having a body scan done.  It's essentially like having a "fingerprint" of the body and its imbalances.  Glyoxal showed up as one of my "Top 10 Toxin Stressors".  What I found out was very interesting to me...

Turns out Glyoxal is a preservative commonly used in cosmetics and nail polish.  It's a Formaldehyde Releaser.  It's a FRAGRANCE INGREDIENT.  It scores a whopping 10 in the EWG database. (1 being safest and 10 being most toxic.)

One of the first things I teach people when learning to switch to safer products is to avoid products with "fragrance" as an ingredient because dozens of toxic chemicals can legally be hidden behind that one word.  Did you know that 80% of personal care products have never been tested for human safety?  

Here's what the Environmental Working Group has to say about Glyoxal...

'Glyoxal is an antimicrobial preservative that works by forming formaldehyde in cosmetic products.  In the U.S. approximately 20% of cosmetics and personal care products contain a formaldehyde-releaser and the frequency of contact allergy to these ingredients is much higher among Americans compared to studies in Europe.'

Well, this makes complete sense to me since partnering with Beautycounter, a company on a mission to educate, advocate, and get safer products into the hands of everyone.  1400 potentially harmful ingredients have been banned in the European Union.  In the United States that number is only 30.  People have no idea that their products they use every single day are making them sick.  The fact that my body scan showed Glyoxal as a top toxic stressor to my body shows me that I've had way too much exposure to it.

Over the past year I've switched all of my skincare and make up over to Beautycounter.  I'm now throwing ALL of my toxic nail polish out and only using safer nail polish from now on.

Will making a change make a difference?  Yes.

With our skin being our largest organ, when we apply products to our bodies, those ingredients go directly into our bloodstream within 26 seconds.  Day after day and year after year, those toxins can add to our chemical body burden and over time can manifest in dis-ease.  So how fast can we clean up those toxins?  REALLY FAST!  Check out this short video that proves just HOW fast toxic chemicals can enter....and leave the body: 

So what can you do to help reduce you and your family's chemical body burden?

• Become familiar with EWG.org and get the EWG Healthy Living App and start scanning your personal care products.  
• As you run out of things, start switching them out to safer options.
• Swap out the worst offenders first (highest on the toxicity scale).
• Stop buying products with the word "fragrance" as an ingredient.
• Share this important information with others.

What are the safer brands I've switched to?

• Beautycounter skincare, body care, and makeup
• Côte Nail Polish
• Zoya Nail Polish
• Schmidt's Deodorant
• Schmidt's Deodorant for sensitive skin (no baking soda)
• Seventh Generation Detergent and Cleaning Products
• Wool Dryer Balls
• Fluoride Free Toothpaste
• Tooth Whitening

Start you teens off right!  One of the first things young girls like to experiment with is NAIL POLISH.  When we know better we do better!  Here's a promising article showing how teens toxin levels plummeted after switching to safer products:  http://www.ewg.org/enviroblog/2016/03/potentially-toxic-chemicals-plummet-teens-after-switching-safer-cosmetics

Who's with me?  Are you going to start making changes?  Are you going to start taking YOUR OWN nail polish to the salon with you too?

15 Mother's Day Gifts she actually wants...

Forget the flowers this year...

Want to get something extra thoughtful for mom this Mother's Day?  Check out these special gifts for all budgets that will be sure to please.  You can pair some of these items up that would work well together...or give a simple single gift that will stand alone beautifully.  Big or small, she'll know you how much you care.

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Wildflower Teapot - $68

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Coconut Milk Bath Soak - $18 / $32

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Perfectly Pink Mother's Day Set - $98

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Ceramic French Press - $120

Think she'd like a Clear Glass version better?  It's beautiful too at $85.

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14K Gold Initial Necklace - $73

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Charcoal Eye Mask - $26

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Herbs Book - $25

Pair this with these goatskin Gardening Gloves for $45 and package in a cute basket!

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Spa Essential Oil Kit - $52 (also sold separately)

Pair this with this beautiful Bamboo Diffuser for $29.99.

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Sugar Body Scrub in Lemongrass - $40

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Eat Beautiful Book - $30

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Côte Nail Polish (No. 7) - $18

safer ingredients, free of major toxins!

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Monogram Mug - $10

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Edition 02 Perfume by Goop - $165

Made from safe ingreditents, free of toxic chemicals that many other perfumes contain!

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fitbit Wireless Fitness Tracker with HR - $149.95

Available in 3 colors.

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Always in my Heart Cuff by Mantraband - $35

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I hope you found something special that your mom will enjoy much longer than flowers.  Happy Mother's Day!

Outfit of the Day - "Spring Casual"

I always say that I can live in a jeans and t-shirt look, but I love to add a couple key pieces to spice up this basic look depending on the occasion.

This post is meant to inspire you to create your own fun jeans and t-shirt look.  I always find it fun to try and find looks I love and recreate them for less!  Give it a try!  I want to see your looks!  Post your outfit on Instagram and tag me and use the hashtag #HWSOOTD so I can see YOUR "outfit of the day".

My favorite way to make my boring jeans and t-shirt look more special and unique is to add a beautiful shoe.  The right shoe can completely change an entire outfit.  My favorite trick is a nude pump or nude heeled sandal that really elongates the leg.  Yes, I'm a fan of heels and wear them often, but you can also find a special flat shoe that adds something special like a pop of color or metallic look.  

Take the time to add a couple of extra accessories that complete the look.  It helps pull the look together and  makes you look like you made more of an effort, even if it's just thrown together for a last minute invite to brunch with the girls.  A hat is a great way to look great fast.  This is my "go-to" when I don't have time to make my hair look decent and it works every time.  A special piece of jewelry or a scarf can work too.  

If I'm wearing a nude colored shoe, I try to add a pop of color somewhere else like with a scarf or handbag, depending on the occasion.

This outfit above is really easy to put together.  Most days you'll find me in some version of this.  Make up is usually a quickie of Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 20, mascara and lip gloss.  I use all Beautycounter skincare and makeup these days becasue....safer ingredients, better beauty;)

The goal is to get a few of the right pieces in place so you don't have to spend forever getting ready....but you always look pulled together!

Shop the photo:

• Cropped jeans
• Striped lightweight sweater
• Fedora hat (I wear this more than anything in my closet so it's worth every penny.  It's the exact hat in all of my profile pics. color: natural/black)
• Red low-heeled suede sandal (this "pop of color" is the star of the show in the outfit above)
• Gold watch
• Aviator sunglasses
• Beautycounter Lip Sheer + Lip Shine (great used separately or layered!)
• Beautycounter Lengthening Mascara (winner of Allure Best of Beauty Award 2016!)

I like to choose some high-end, classic, timeless pieces that last a long time but you can definitely find this look for less.  Target, Amazon and searching styles online are great ways to find looks for less.

A couple of my favorite nude + color pop ankle strap sandals:

high spike heel and  block heel (more colors available).  The spike high heel pictured below is an example of how I found the look of the highly coveted Stuart Weitzman "Nudist" sandals that look just like this for a lot less!

Wondering how I decide to splurge or save?  Read my blog post:  Shop Smarter...Cost Per Wear

April Stitch Fix Finds

I just opened my latest Stitch Fix box yesterday and I wanted to share these three cute items with you in case you want to request them in your Fix!

If you are unfamiliar with Stitch Fix, or haven't given it a try yet, it's the perfect time with summer coming.  Essentially you have a personal stylist pick things out for you based on your personal style.  It's fun and you can keep what you like...and ship back what you don't in a convenient pre-paid package!

First, is the super cute Shirt Dress pictured above.  It's my favorite item I received in a while from Stitch Fix.  It's cotton, comfortable, and has a denim, heathered look to it.  It's the perfect length and will be perfect with my favorite Frye Boots or sandals this summer.  It's has a nice hem with a slight longer back than front of about an inch.  One thing I love, because I'm really picky about these things.... the pocket is large.  I love this detail because more often than not, pockets are tiny and that's a deal breaker for me.  I think this large, long pocket gives it a higher end look.  If you'd like to request this shirt dress in your Fix:

Follow this link to Stitch Fix to sign up for Stitch Fix and request the RD Style - Kel-T Shirt Dress - $58

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Market & Spruce - Jahana Cargo Vest from Stitch Fix - $68

Next, this Cargo Vest can add a really stylish twist to your outfits!  It's a great layering piece that's functional.  It has a hood that can be hidden inside the zipped collar.  If feels very high quality and is the perfect green color.  It can be sinched from the inside for the look you want and has zippers and snaps closure in front.  It also has snap pockets.  I think these vests are so cute over a striped long sleeved tee  If you'd like to request this Cargo Vest in you Fix:

Follow this link to Stitch Fix to sign up for Stitch Fix and request the Market & Spruce - Jahana Cargo Vest - $68

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Big Star - Casi Distressed Overall from Stitch Fix - $138

Overalls are back! This faded denim color is really great for the warmer weather coming and the distressed look is spot on.  These fit well....aren't too baggy like many overalls can be.  I think these will look great with a casual soft grey T-Shirt, and my FAVE Booties or White Converse.  The bottom hems are cuffed.  If you'd like to request these Overalls in you FIx:

Follow this link to Stitch Fix to sign up for Stitch Fix and request the Big Star - Casi Distressed Overall - $138

Blog Post you might enjoy:  ...How to Make Stitch Fix Work Best for You

Stitch Fix now offers Plus sizes, Maternity, Men's and Gift Cards!

Meet Beautycounter+

Beautycounter+ launched recently which may be the most exciting thing to happen to this company yet.... 

What's new?  Xavier Ormancey is the new head of product development and had a big hand in bringing Beautycounter+ to life.  He came to Beautycounter from Paris after spending over 20 years with Chanel, Loreal, and Roche Posay.  With his experience for developing luxurious products that perform, and Beautycounter's Never List... Beautycounter Plus was born!

So what is this brand new line of products all about and how do you use them?

This is a collection of targeted treatments formulated with safer ingredients to enhance your daily skincare routine.  Here are the 3 new collections (9 products total):

1.  BRIGHTENING COLLECTION + VITAMIN C

Infused with antioxidant-rich Vitamin C to awaken dull skin, this Beautycounter+ collection helps reduce the appearance of age spots for a brighter, more radiant complexion.  This collection offers THREE never before seen products.  This citrus-scented Brightening Face Oil has 7 natural oils including omega-rich marula oil for intense hydration, avocado oil which is rich in vitamins A, B, D and E for intense moisture, and black currant oil which is rich in anti-inflammatory omegas 3 & 6.  Vitamin C brightens and evens skin tone, The Brightening Face Mist has Vitamin C that helps reduce the appearance of age spots while lime pearl extract gently promotes a brighter complexion. Kakadu Plum is rich in vitamin C and this powerful antioxidant in the mist that helps boost luminosity and refine the skin’s surface.  This nutrient-rich white Brightening Facial Mask instantly revives skin.  Polishing kaolin clay deeply cleanses and revitalizes while vitamin C helps minimize dark spots for a more even complexion and radiant glow.

2.  PLUMPING COLLECTION + PEONY

Formulated with powerful peony and jasmine, this Beautycounter+ collection restores and firms moisture-depleted skin.  This line is designed to give skin a more toned look and youthful appearance.  The Plumping Facial Mask has deep cleansing kaolin clay, peony root extract which helps plump skin and restore elasticity, konjac root smooths the appearance of fine lines by absorbing water in skin for a firmer appearance, and rye seed to improve skin structure and soften expression lines.  This alcohol free Plumping Face Mist has peony root extract which helps to plump skin, rye seed to minimize the appearance of fine lines and apple fruit extract which has astringent properties to help tighten and lift the skin. This Plumping Face Oil in this collection has 7 natural oils including jasmine oil helps which boosts hydration with a subtle floral scent, and argan oil which helps minimize the appearance of fine lines. This oil was previously known as "Hydrating" in the regular Beautycounter collection. 

3.  BALANCING COLLECTION + CHARCOAL

Infused with activated charcoal and ylang ylang, this Beautycounter+ collection gently refines oily, uneven skin.  This nutrient-rich kaolin clay Balancing Facial Mask purifies and balances, absorbing excess oil and drawing out impurities. Activated charcoal powder minimizes the appearance of pores, giving skin a smooth, polished appearance while salicylic acid stimulates exfoliation.  It also contains lactic acid which gently exfoliates and smooths skin’s surface. This alcohol free Balancing Face Mist is like no other product EVER.  It has charcoal powder which is highly absorbent and rich in natural minerals to help balance and purify skin, kaolin which is a soft clay that effectively absorbs excess oil, and wild rose extract which is rich in vitamins A and C, and also helps reduce redness.  This lightweight Balancing Face Oil is a blend of seven natural oils that moisturizes, smooths, and helps even skin tone.  It has softening meadowfoam seed oil which restores balance, while wild chamomile calms and soothes skin.  This mask is previously known as "charcoal mask" in the regular Beautycounter collection and this Face Oil is previously known as "Balancing" in the regular Beautycounter collection.

I have tried this ENTIRE line and I AM IMPRESSED.  It is absolutely luxurious.  These products smell amazing.  The mists are so fine and even when applied.  These new masks are EVERYTHING.  The Face Oils have always been my "liquid gold" and now having one with Vitamin C is making me do my happy dance.

Tips for use:  These Facial Masks can be used as needed 2-3 times per week.  The Face Oils can be used daily alone or under moisturizer.  The Face Mists can be used daily to prep skin, set makeup, and refresh skin throughout the day. You can "multi mask" too (see pic below) which means use the Plumping Mask on cheeks to plump...and the Charcoal Mask on t-zone to absorb excess oil, for example.  You can taylor them to your needs!

The ultimate Multi-Tasking is "Multi-Masking"!  I used the #1 Brightening + Vitamin C on my entire face to treat dark spots and #3 Balancing + Charcoal on my T-Zone to shrink pore size!  

Who's ready for a girl's day with MASKS, MISTS, and MIMOSAS?  Click here to shop:

Why are these products SAFER?

----> Our Facial Oils has passed Beautycounter’s Ingredient Selection Process. They are formulated without synthetic or mineral oils.

----> Our Facial Mists have passed Beautycounter’s Ingredient Selection Process.  They are formulated without silicones or sulfates.

----> Our Facial Masks have passed Beautycounter’s Ingredient Selection Process. They are formulated without artificial colorants or synthetic fragrances.

MINI SPA SETS ARE HERE TOO...

JOIN MY "Happy WifeStyle Beauty" FACEBOOK GROUP NOW to get in on a super fun community that's all about aging gracefully, living clean, and all things beauty!  Use this link to Join:  http://bit.ly/JoinHWSBeauty or click the link below.

Fueling your Fitness

When it comes to a healthy lifestyle, I encourage moving your body.  Every day.  Do what makes you happy rather than what you dread and you'll be more likely to stick with it.  For me, sometimes that means a workout DVD.  Sometimes that means paddle boarding.  Sometimes that means hiking.  Sometimes that means dancing in my kitchen...  I just move.  Every day.

So how do we fuel our fitness and keep our bodies nourished....without sacrificing quality....or taste?

A common question I get is what to eat before and after a workout.  I think this is a great question but the thing is, it's not a one size fits all answer.  You don't want to be too full....or be running on empty.

First I think it's important to consider what type of activity you'll be doing and for how long.  If you are doing a low intensity workout or a walk, you may not need a pre-workout meal at all, especially if you're nourishing your body at regular meals.  If you're doing a harder or longer workout, it's a good idea to have a small meal or snack beforehand and take something with you.

Before a workout, I don't encourage eating too much because your body will have trouble performing well if it's using all its energy to digest the food.  So it's important not to overeat and to choose easily digestible food that sustains your energy.  Most will do well with a small snack of protein and healthy fat.  You can add a little nutrient dense, low glycemic carbs too.  See what makes you feel your best.  Fruit is not the best choice pre workout as it won't sustain you.

Some good pre-workout snacks: 

• hard boiled eggs (I steam mine)
• celery with almond butter
• chia pudding
• high quality deli meat w/ avocado
• tuna with homemade mayo
• a handful of nuts (not peanuts)
• coffee blended with 1 tsp - 1 tbsp coconut oil and cinnamon

After a workout, I like to have something to eat 15-30 mins after and choose a protein and a carb.  A great choice is a protein and a starchy carb.  Don't think you need to load up on large amounts of these after an average workout.  Only if you are training HARD at an athlete's level do you need to really replenish in that way.  My tip is No, you don't have to eat your weight in protein after a workout!

Some good post-workout choices:

• hard boiled egg and banana (easy grab & go food)
• a great vegan option is my fave "Green Smoothie" (almond milk, plant based protein, frozen banana, handful of spinach or Greens, and cinnamon)
• egg scramble with veggies and sweet potato
• a slice of Ezekiel toast with avocado, himalayan sea salt and a soft boiled egg
• Plantain chips and tuna

So what if you are hiking, biking, skiing, at an event or race, etc and need to fuel your body?

If you look in my car, bag or purse at any given time you will always find a protein bar or two in there.  That way if I get hungry...or my husband or friends get hungry.... I have something healthy to tide us over.  Here's the thing....

When you look at the protein bar section in a store these days, it can make your head spin.  Most of them are FULL of junky, processed, artificial ingredients that won't fuel your healthy lifestyle!  Make sure to read the ingredients....that's what matters most.  

So what's in my bag right now?  RxBars are my go-to.  I love their limited ingredients.  I like to switch it up too and am always looking for new clean options.  Another great choice are GoMacro Bars, especially for those with allergies, sensitivities, or dietary restrictions.  The quality, clean ingredients have passed my inspection and there are a ton of flavors and textures to choose from.  Not to worry, the natural sugars and infant-safe brown rice syrup found in GoMacro Bars are packed with sustained energy.  The best thing about these bars?  They taste kinda amazing.  If you're in a hurry, grab a high quality protein bar for a pre or post workout snack from time to time, it's totally fine! 

We can't forget HYDRATION....

Hydration is one of the most important parts of our healthy lifestyle, especially when we are out there getting our sweat on.  I see too many people living their "healthy lifestyle" with a sugary sports drink in their hand!  It makes me want to cringe!!  Stop that!  Water and pure coconut water are great ways to hydrate your workouts and healthy lifestyle.  If you're looking for a super healthy alternative for that unhealthy "sports drink"?  Try this Minerals and Antioxidant drink mix and you'll be right back on track.  This is a FANTASTIC healthy switch for your kids sports drinks!!!  Tastes great!

I hope these tips help you feel your best, NOURISH your body, and remember.... fuel your fitness + healthy lifestyle in the way that's best for you.

Other Blog Posts You Might Enjoy:  

6 Steps To Choosing a Healthy Protein Powder

Paleo Vanilla Raw Balls