Here are few healthy and natural alternatives. Some are product recommendations, and some are do-it-yourself projects.

Love Your Lips

In a small container, mix a dollop of honey, agave nectar, or real maple syrup. Add a spoonful of sugar and mix well. Using your finger, spread the mixture over your lips and gently massage dry and dead skin away. Not only will this leave your lips feeling insanely soft, it also tastes good! Lock in the moisture with your favorite all-natural lip balm. (I like Badger’s Cocoa Butter Lip Balm in Sweet Orange. With organic ingredients like fair trade cocoa butter, extra virgin olive oil, and aloe, your lips will be kissably soft.)

Care For Your Face

Many store bought exfoliates are harsh and will irritate your skin. You can make your own, gentle facial scrub with ingredients that you already have in your kitchen! If your skin is sensitive (like mine), the sugar you use on your lips may be a little too rough. Many people use oats or almonds as well, and if you have dry, tough skin, that may work great for you. But if you are like me, try this gentle alternative: Poor some coffee grounds into a small container and moisten with a little bit of pure olive oil. Spring for the good stuff. Real Italian olive oil is more likely to be just that, and not watered down with other oils or harmful chemicals like its grocery store alternative. Mix well and apply to your clean face. Gently massage in circular motions for a minute or so, and rinse. The coffee grounds will scrub away flakey skin and leave you feeling invigorated, while the olive oil works to moisturize your skin, leaving your face feeling as soft as a baby’s bottom.

Cleanse Your Body

My personal favorite product on the market is Doctor Bronner’s Magic Pure Castile Liquid Soap in Peppermint. I have used this since I was a little girl. It smells delicious, leaves your skin feeling fresh and tingly, and is made from fair trade, natural ingredients. It is so natural that you can use it not only on your body, but on your clothes and even your dishes!  In fact, the only ingredients are water, saponified organic coconut, organic palm and organic olive oils (w/retained glycerin), organic hemp oil, organic jojoba oil, fair trade peppermint essential oils, citric acid, and vitamin E! You can even make your own castile soap fairly easily. Buy a few bars of pure, unscented castile soap, and shave them into flakes.  Try a cheese grater if you have one! Add about two cups of flakes to about 6 cups of boiling water and melt down. When it begins to cool, add any moisturizing elements like aloe, or add a few drops of your favorite essential oils for fragrance. Pour the mixture into any bottle you have laying around (old olive oil bottles or wine bottles work wonderfully!), and voila!

Care For Your Hair

The “no-poo” method has been on the rise in the world of natural hair care. If you are not familiar with no-poo, it involves replacing shampoo with a 50/50 mixture of baking soda and water that you scrub your scalp with and massage through your hair to clean and smooth, followed by conditioning with a 50/50 mixture of water and apple cider vinegar. I know, this sounds stinky, but the scent of the vinegar vanishes once you rinse your hair, and if you are concerned about a lingering odor, mix a few drops of your favorite essential oil with some water, shake well, and spritz on your hair. Personally, I am not a fan of this method. I have fine, oil prone hair, and I prefer to lather, rinse and repeat. If you are like me, there are plenty of natural products on the market. I am partial to Nature’s Gate brand Herbal Shampoo. This stuff smells phenomenal, and the ingredients are derived from sources like coconut, yarrow, sage, jojoba, and thyme.

Clean Cosmetics

Cosmetics are the big bad of the beauty world. Most drug store brands are tested on animals, and even prestige brands contain heavy metals that are hazardous to your health! If you take good care of your skin, you will find yourself needing less and less product. Instead of treating acne spots with harsh chemicals, try a dab of your favorite all natural toothpaste. This will dry those bad boys right out and they will disappear in no time. If you are still feeling a little blotchy and you want to cover some spots or even out your skin tone, think twice before reaching for that foundation. Even popular mineral foundations include things like titanium dioxide, with the International Agency for Research on Cancer claims may be a carcinogen to humans. It is really hard to find cosmetics that contain safe, natural ingredients. Try Ecco Bella brand. Their concealer only contains the following ingredients: castor oil, isopropyl palmitate derived from palm oil, candelilla wax, beeswax, organic calendula oil, organic chamomile oil, organic jojoba oil, and vitamin e. It does contain the dreaded titanium dioxide, but as it is not in the form of a powder, it should have no negative effects on your person. For a pop of color on the lips, check out offerings from Badger or Hemp Organics. A lot of folks are also fans of the Burt’s Bees tinted balms, but keep in mind that they are now owned by Clorox, who tests on animals.

Easy Peasy Fragrance

Did you realize that the propylene glycol in the fragrance that has been added to your deodorant and shampoos is industrial antifreeze? Or how about the fact that the sodium lauryl sulfate in your fresh smelling detergents and soaps is also an ingredient in garage floor cleanser? There might be acetone in your fancy perfume or cologne, not to mention benzyl acetate, which is only one of the carcinogens found in an incredible number of fragrances. Do you still want to douse yourself in that stuff before leaving the house? No, probably not. But we all want to smell nice, don’t we? Instead of using nasty anti perspirants full of aluminum and anti-freeze, try one of the rock crystal deodorants from your local health food store. These are free from aluminum, parabens, and alcohol, and come in a variety of 100% natural scents. Instead of shelling out $100 at the perfume counter, consider essential oils. You can easily find them online, and most health food stores and metaphysical shops sell them in a variety of scents. Mix and match a few drops in a bottle of water, shake well, and you have yourself a sweet smelling perfume that you can feel good about. If you don’t want to make your own, Auric Blends has a vast array of amazing scents. Egyptian Goddess is their best seller, and for a good reason. This stuff is out of this world! I am also partial to their Patchouli-Amber blend. No matter what you are looking for, they are sure to have a scent to suit you in their line of roll on, solid, and all natural perfumes.

Bio: Melissa Cohen is a travel writer for Excellent Hotels from Portland, Maine. She is passionate about clean, natural, organic living.

There are many extreme views on this topic. Western science has traditionally clung to the dualistic concept that subject and object are separate, and there is no room for subjective (i.e., consciousness-based) experience in the scientific “rational” observation of the material world. Taken experientially, this interpretation states that the mind of the human being is simply a passive observer of a reality that is imposed by a totally deterministic external world, i.e. by forces of nature that we have no internal control over.

The opposite view, held by many mystics and spiritual practitioners across the ages, is that all experience in this world is created by consciousness, and that all tangible elements of physical reality are therefore ultimately an illusion. Then there are many beliefs, spiritual, philosophical, and scientific, that place themselves in the middle ground, existing as flexible mediums between these two extremes. One such belief system, celebrated especially by the New Age Movement, is the belief in the “Power of Affirmations” or the power of “positive thinking.”

When we make an affirmation, we generate a positive thought, but unfortunately it often doesn’t result in a real difference. Why? More often than not, the thought is generated in a contrived way and is not genuine. We may tell ourselves that “we are healthy and happy,” but deep down, we might not really believe it. Often, our positive thoughts are just a few thin layers covering a multitude of suppressed negative beliefs generated by fear, aversion, attachments and the like. These negative beliefs can be both conscious and unconscious, but regardless of their specific location in our psyche, they are clearly the obstructing force in any real effect of positive affirmation on our reality. So, positive affirmations can work, but only to the degree that they are truly genuine– that you generate them and sustain your belief in them from the deepest core of your being possible. This means being in touch with yourself, experiencing the true potential of your existence, and then being genuine to that experience.

So what is the deepest core of our being and how do we access it? This is the difficult part. We can use the metaphor of the onion and its many layers. Our deepest core is our true essence, and it is in no way separable from the essence of the Universe. When we peel back the layers of the onion, the layers of negative beliefs, distractions, fears, etc., we can actually reach this core essence and rest in it, naturally and effortlessly radiating energies of love, compassion and healing. The deeper we go, the more layers we peel, the more access we have to our true essence and the more genuine our affirmations can be, for this essence is simply pure openness, love: the true essence of positive affirmation. Often, and especially in moments of crisis, we can become more genuine to ourselves, to our experience of existence. This is the true opportunity presented by crisis. If we keep going deeper, we can start peeling into the depth of our experience, peeling back the layers that obstruct our essence. Then, when the openness is there, love and compassion flow effortlessly as a natural expression of our true nature, and anything can happen. Read up on lifestyle changes that are truly valuable to your health and well-being by visiting www.dreliaz.org/recommends-lifestyle.

All-natural beauty treatments made from simple ingredients will not only save you money, they often give better, and safer, results than salon based procedures. When you use homemade products for skin, hair and body, you are in control. Choose your own wholesome, organic elements. Do it yourself beauty recipes have the added benefit of containing no hidden or harmful chemicals.

1. A natural avocado skin mask is a great way to give yourself a deep moisturizing treatment at home. Avocados are high in fats and oils and have the ability to penetrate deeply into skin to alleviate dryness and tightness. Try making an avocado facial mask using organic avocados. Mash a very ripe avocado in a bowl and mix with a small amount of milk or cream to bind the substance together and create a smooth consistency. You can add a dash of lemon juice if you wish for extra freshness.

2. Honey facial masks are also very effective moisturizers. Honey is a natural humectant, meaning that it attracts moisture to the skin and holds it. Honey also has anti-inflammatory properties. Anti-inflammatory substances help alleviate redness and irritation. Warm a small amount of pure and natural honey until it is slightly liquid but not runny. Smooth the mixture over clean, dry skin until all areas are covered. Leave on for 10-20 minutes and then rinse thoroughly.

3. Teeth whitening does not always have to be done in a cosmetic dentist’s office. A simple solution of lemon juice and salt is effective for mild whitening of the teeth. Mix a solution using 75 percent lemon juice and 25 percent salt. Swish the solution around in your mouth for 1-3 minutes and then spit. Do not swallow the salt solution. Repeat frequently for best results.

4. Coconut oil has multiple benefits as a natural hair treatment. Pure coconut oil can be found in most grocery stores and is relatively inexpensive. It is rich in vitamin E and does not break down as easily as other oils, thus providing long-lasting moisturizing benefits. Fatty acids in coconut oil also help combat dandruff. Rub the oil into your scalp and hair frequently for maximum benefit.

5. Honey milk baths are a soothing and fragrant alternative to harsh commercial bath solutions. Heat honey until very liquid and mix with a generous amount of warm milk. Pour into a warm bath for a luxurious – and natural soak.

Becky Mackay is an online writer, with a keen interest in health and lifestyle. For more helpful tips visit her Twitter page FreshHealth11

Soon surprising wrinkles appear on the hands and face.

Emulsions is important then apply Antic-spots before and during the first exposure to the sun.

Medicinal emulsions free of dyes and artificial substances, prepared by example based on enoxolone. The enoxolone is an element that fights skin metabolism defects. Anyway, check with your dermatologist remember that whatever the chosen product should be applied in small amounts to avoid effects contrary to those desired. This treatment can be completed with the ingestion of tablets made with photo-protective elements. If you decide to discard any of these tablets which contain a high dose of Tamino, and which give the skin a tone very strong and artificial.

Image to link, Health sector reform

1.  If you want to wear a face without wrinkles oxygenated and in the morning and before bed, wash your face with cool water and mild soap. Rinse and then wipe with a soft towel giving mild pat on the skin to prevent drying and stays wet too. After gentle slaps to the face using 1 egg yolk.

2. Once a week soak your face and apply a little white sugar, soft drawing circles with your fingers. Head face with cool water and dry.

3. To prevent dry skin and the appearance of the dreaded wrinkles, keep a balanced diet that includes fresh vegetables and natural juices of apples, tomatoes and cucumbers.

Image to link, Nu womens beauty

Image to link, Guxopev

There are two ways of performing pilates. You can do it on a mat on the floor or you can use the reformer machine. Both techniques requires trained pilates instructor to teach you individually or to lead the group in mat pilates.

This type of pilates exercise is excellent for elderly as well improving balance and flexibility and also great if you have arthritis or any other joint immobility problems.

Pilates will give you longer muscles and is not for anybody who is trying to build size or increase muscle mass in any larger volume. Pilates is performed in hour-long sessions and usually in special studios equipped especially for this. Although some fitness centers offer pilates on their aerobic and group exercise schedules this is usually the mat version unless the health club has a separate room set up for individual pilates sessions with an instructor.

Pilates is a safe and purposeful exercise designed to improve you strenght, flexibility, balance and coordination. If you have never tried Pilates, perhaps with just a few minutes each week, you too might find a new exercise that will benefit your for years to come.

Image to link, Fitnesstart

Snacks
Between meals, eating healthy snacks will help to boost energy and balance your metabolism. Snacks such as fresh apples and bananas are high in vitamin C, antioxidants and fiber, as well as other vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates that supply you with a quick energy boost. Certain types of nuts are also healthy options for quick energy-boosting snacks. While some people may be resistant to eating nuts due to their high fat content, it is important to note that most nuts contain unsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which help to decrease bad cholesterol levels and sustain healthy levels of good cholesterol. Eating small servings of raw, high-protein walnuts, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts or pecans provides you with a healthy source of potassium, magnesium, iron, calcium, fiber, vitamin B, vitamin E, and thiamin, which will keep you satisfied and sustain your energy levels. One of the best snacks includes raw peeled almonds that have been soaked in water for 12-24 hours prior to peeling.

Water
Drinking water as opposed to soda, coffee or high-sugar fruit juices is important for maintaining energy levels and a healthy body weight. Water plays an important role in a number of bodily functions and processes, including the removal of waste products, carrying nutrients, and regulating body temperature. Drinking adequate amounts of water also helps to relieve fluid retention and maintain healthy bowel functions, so be sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.

Medicinal Mushrooms
Certain medicinal mushrooms can provide excellent support for energy and vitality, in addition to powerful immune enhancement. Medicinal mushrooms such as Reishi, Cordyceps and Maitake, among others, can offer numerous health-promoting benefits both safely and naturally, resulting in increased wellness and vitality.

Botanicals
Cellular energy is generated in the mitochondria, tiny structures within each cell that turn nutrients into energy. When you are under stress, your body releases a surge of hormones including adrenaline, norepinephrine and cortisol, which can cause damage to the mitochondria and hinder the cell’s ability to produce the chemicals they need. Certain herbal supplements, such as Siberian ginseng, enhance the body’s ability to deliver oxygen to cells and reduce oxidative damage that can harm the mitochondria. Ginseng also naturally relaxes blood vessels, which increases oxygen delivery to cells throughout the body and increases energy.

While there are a number of healthy foods that can increase energy levels naturally, there are foods on the other side of the spectrum that will slow you down. Avoid refined sugar, white flour and fattening fried foods such as French fries and doughnuts, as these foods are typically high in trans fat, free radicals and acrylamide – a potent cancer-causing chemical that is formed from chemical reactions during high-temperature frying or baking. Many people are gluten sensitive and can experience fatigue after eating gluten-containing foods. If you do find yourself consuming foods such as these, be sure to follow with a high fiber snack and lots of water to help flush these energy-robbing ingredients from your system. For more practical health information and dietary recommendations, visit www.dreliaz.org.

A cleanse is aimed at lightening your body by shedding unnecessary pounds and toxins—and this is a task that encompasses not just your physical body, but your emotional and mental facets as well. When you exhale, you let go of air that includes “information” from your past, which is manifested as toxins and waste materials that have been released from your cells. They travel though your capillaries to your veins, then the right ventricle of the heart, and finally into the lungs where the final product—carbon dioxide—is exchanged with oxygen.

A more basic discharge takes place in the colon, but if the colon is not functioning optimally, it can lead to constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and a host of other unpleasant digestive concerns. While problems such as constipation can be the result of a physical issue, emotional issues such as compulsive tendencies or other manifestations of emotional imbalance can also come into play.

One of the most important aspects of a successful cleanse involves the emotional process of “letting go.” If you examine your mind and your emotions, you will likely notice how often you are enslaved by them. Thoughts relentlessly proliferate in your mind, producing various emotions that you may not be able to control. So, what can you do about it?

One strategy is to develop your own antidotes to your emotions and thoughts. For example, if you have a lot of anger, you can work to cultivate patience. If you are feeling overwhelmed by grief, you can work to cultivate joy. And if you have a lot of attachments to material things, you can work to cultivate generosity.

Another path is to release your emotions by letting go and not holding onto these feelings when they arise. In order to do this completely, however, it is important to first come to terms with the impermanence of things and accept the inevitability of change. Your likes, dislikes, attachments, and aversions are all impermanent in nature — they did not always exist and they will not continue to exist forever.

Truly understanding and experiencing the impermanent quality of your thoughts and emotions should become the centerpiece of your cleanse. If done properly, the end result of this process can be true transformation, allowing you to cultivate a genuine, open heart in which you can transcend your reactive emotions. This is the spiritual peeling process that is a vital aspect of your health, happiness, and lasting well being. For more wellness information and practical health advice, visit www.dreliaz.org.