Organice Your Life®

Last time I went to Whole Foods in MIami, where I am at the moment, I've got one of my favorite magazines "Whole Living".

While reading it, I came across something I thought was worth sharing it with you guys.

well, I found this article about a Journal! But not any kind of journal. It is specifically dedicated to health/diet/fitness. It is made in way that you can track your goals and results in a creative and fun way. like this it will be easy for you to stick to healthy life style.

I thought it was great idea. Right way me and my girlfriend did order one of these journals for each of us. I can't wait to get back to New York and start using it!

By the way, I have to tell that Whole Foods in MIami is GREAT! Lots of fresh tropical fruits, organic greens and huge selection of raw food items. My new favorite is Raw Almond Butter. I put it on my sprouted toast every morning!

love, Val

visit the website to order your journal!

http://www.moleskineus.com/mbl25-moleskine-passions-wellness

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I figured the title would be a good start. Hello, my name is Marius Hordijk and I will be joining the writing team of OYL.

For now, I will write about running. My 12 week training program, which started yesterday, is the toughest one I've done so far, and it will prepare me for the Utrecht Singelloop on Sunday September 26th, 2010. This is a 10 kilometer race in which I hope to break my record.

I've been running for almost two years now, and I can tell you all the cliché things you hear about it are all true: yes, it helps you relax. Yes, it helps you stay and feel healthy. And yes, running can be great for the mind. Yet most important of all: it is good fun.

I hope to be exploring these topics with you, and I hope to not bore you silly with talks of calories and minutes per kilometer. So there! I have introduced myself. Soon I'll tell you more of my training schedule, and if you feel tempted to join, don't hesitate to take your running shoes out of the closet and join in!

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Figs I like very much, also the dried ones.They are excellent snacks if you are hungry. Both versions are very healthy and this is what I found on Wikipedia:

"Figs are one of the highest plant sources of calcium and fiber. According to USDA data for the Mission variety, dried figs are richest in fiber, copper, manganese, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and vitamin K, relative to human needs. They have smaller amounts of many other nutrients. Figs have a laxative effect and contain many antioxidants. They are good source of flavonoids and polyphenols.^[3] In one study, a 40-gram portion of dried figs (two medium size figs) produced a significant increase in plasma antioxidant capacity.^[4]"

Fig, dried, uncooked
Nutritional value per 100 g (3.5 oz)
Energy	1,041 kJ (249 kcal)
Carbohydrates	63.87 g
Sugars	47.92 g
Dietary fiber	9.8 g
Fat	0.93 g
Protein	3.30 g
Thiamine (Vit. B₁)	0.085 mg (7%)
Riboflavin (Vit. B₂)	0.082 mg (5%)
Niacin (Vit. B₃)	0.619 mg (4%)
Pantothenic acid (B₅)	0.434 mg (9%)
Vitamin B₆	0.106 mg (8%)
Folate (Vit. B₉)	9 μg (2%)
Vitamin C	1.2 mg (2%)
Calcium	162 mg (16%)
Iron	2.03 mg (16%)
Magnesium	68 mg (18%)
Phosphorus	67 mg (10%)
Potassium	680 mg (14%)
Zinc	0.55 mg (6%)
Percentages are relative to US recommendationsfor adults. Source: USDA Nutrient database

And on top of that, Anne-Marie got me hooked on this organic Greek yogurt by Stoney Field Farms called Oikos!

It is much fresher, thicker than regular yogurt, and I love it in the summer.

I take the plain version, and add the fresh figs in it! It is sooo good! I add a little bit of agave syrup (or honey).

It is refreshing and yummy a great dish for the summer!

www.stoneyfieldfarms.com

28-06-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Cold drinks for hot Summer!
Tags: great jones | spa | andew weil | tea | coconut | alo | aloe vera |

Today, when Eyal, Anne-Marie and me had a meeting to talk about all the fun events we are organizing coming months, we tried some really nice new drinks.

We met at Great Jones Spa, a spa that is trying to offer organic, and or healthy treatments, juices and foods. A perfect location to meet. Great Jones Spa is located-as the name shows already- On Great Jones in NYC.

The one drink I liked was Dr. Andrew Weil for Tea in Darjeeling. It was a fresh, light, refreshing little can, also called a "shot". Supposedly there are many antioxidants in one can, and no calories and 100% of daily value of Vitamin C. Dr Weil is a popular American physician, that focusses mostly on integrative medicine. He wrote many interesting books.

The other one was our all time favorite Coconut water, by Zico. Other really good brands are Vita Coco and O.N.E.. Also a very refreshing drink. low calories and sodium and high in potassium, making it an ideal sports drink.

Another new drink we tried was from the brand Alo, a drink made with aloe vera. There are different ones like "Awaken" that has wheatgrass and aloe vera, Enliven with 12 different vegetables and fruits, or Allure with mangosteen to name a few. This drink has chunks of aloe vera in it, and it comes closest (I think) to the bubble tea we all love! It is sweetened with honey and/or cane sugar. So they are not the lowest in calorie drinks, but don't have thickeners or emulsifiers in them, or other chemical ingredients. I liked the taste, but one whole bottle was too much for me!

Really nice also is to brew your own tea, and then chill it. You can sweeten it with a hint of agave syrup or honey. Or not.I think that is the best!

Cold drinks rule in the hot summer!

www.alodrink.com
www.zico.com
www.drweil.com

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I just went on a short trip for a shoot to Newport. This old colonial style town I really liked, and I am sure I will visit it again sometime to see a bit more of the cultural sites, like the preserved houses and museums. Those houses and estates are enormous and amazing! Like the Breakers, a famous house once owned by the Vanderbilt family.

I could choose: Airplane or train. Since I try to fly as little as possible, I took the train. The Acela express takes you in less than 3 hours from NYC Penn Station to Providence. From there I was picked up by a car service, to get to Newport. The train was pretty nice! My business class seat was probably on par with one in an airplane. But this is so much more convenient! Free wi-fi and food shop on board. Add the lack of lines and security screening, and this made it a very convenient trip.

I stayed at Hotel Viking. A really old hotel with nice rooms in the middle of town. They have a good gym, that I used a lot, and a nice indoor pool. Although their food did not look too organice( They “Proudly serve Starbucks Coffee”) I did find some green things in this hotel.Check their environmental policy! For instance, my key card was made of recycled paper, and was recyclable too. Good choice! And they use biodegradable detergents... and more!

I always try to mix work with fun, that means either getting a massage, watch a good movie, or go around town. This time I did not have too much time, so I spent it working on Organiceyourlife.com, which is a major pleasure factor for me!

I woke up very early, and went to the gym. 15 min treadmill, 20 min bike, 15 min excercises. Unfortunately when I arrived to the shoot, they only had breakfast from Starbucks, so I ended up eating 2 bananas for breakfast. Lunch was better, and I overate on potatoes (so good!) When I get back I am going to do a cleanse or something haha!

The people I worked with were very nice. We shot at The Marble House, also a house once owned by the Vanderbilt family. As the name already shows, it had a lot of marble, and is definitely worth visiting when you get to Newport. It was a nice day and I enjoyed the sun.

When I went the train station of Providence, I noticed they put baskets out, where people could leave their unwanted newspapers and magazines, to get recycled. That’s a little thing you can do but does a lot! All that paper can be used in many new different ways… like for the production of my keycard at the hotel I told you about before!

I was hungry, and saw a lot of junk food, as you usually see at gift shops around America. Then I try to choose the thing that is the least harmful, and it became raw almonds. While there are stories out that tell us that those almonds are maybe not so raw as the company say they are, I prefer those over chips, colorful chocolates, or cookies that never go stale. Next time I pack a few more of the healthy snacks I usually bring (nuts, dried fruits, granola)

The best thing of getting back to NYC, was that I went straight to meet Anne-Marie at Purumé, the new organic restaurant on 13^th street. The bokchoy dumplings are sooo good!

A great end to this fun weekend !

www.gonewport.com
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newport,_Rhode_Island

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Today I want to share another great recipe. It's super easy to make and very beneficial for your health. I have to tell, the ingredients you'll need for this recipe I'm sure you have in your fridge right now, but you never think to combine them all together. So, let's see:

- 1 or 2 bananas

- 1 apple Gala

- 2 cups of spinach

- 2 cups of fresh water

Put everything in blender and run for 30 sec or until everything blends very well. That's it! The Green Smoothie is ready:)

It's so yummy, you wouldn't believe it! Don'tt worry about spinach, you will not taste it at all. All you taste is bananas and apple! But spinach adds so much vitamins and minerals to this drink!

You can have it for breakfast or dinner or as a snack in between the meals.

If you like this recipe, later you can experiment with different greens: kale, arugula, mint, romaine etc. As well as with fruits: you can use blueberries, pear, melon, mango..

This smoothie contains so much nutritions that your body craves, that you will loose your cravings for unhealthy food.

Love, Val

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Nothing feels as good as a nice warm shower! Feeling the water on your skin, relaxing after a busy day, or waking up after a good night sleep. I love taking a shower!

I don't really shower long. It is not good for your skin ( skin loses elasticity and moisture) but mostly because it is not good for the environment, or your pocket! (Wasting Water= Wasting Money). But taking a shower (shorter than 10 minutes) is better than taking a bath. A bath is about 110 liters of water, 5 minutes of showering is about 55 liters of water.

You do have to keep the shower clean to avoid nasty build up (and bacteria). I have a few tips how to make your shower look the best!

TIP1: Buy a shower squeegee to wipe off your the walls of your shower, or your shower cabin, after each shower session, to avoid build up. If you have a shower curtain, use your towel after drying off, to clean the curtain. This all will save a lot of work because if the build up dried up, it is very hard to scrub it off later.

Ecover has a great window cleaning spray that cleans glass surfaces without stripes. You can buy it at Wholefoods among other places, and is ecofriendly.

TIP2: Clean your shower and bathroom with (white distilled) vinegar! Just wipe away the dirt and stains with a damp cloth with a b it of vinegar. Et Voila! Everything is shiny clean. Environmentally friendly and cheap!

TIP3: Buy a little stool that can't slip, for in the shower. You can use it to sit if you cannot stand for long periods of time, for when you need to shave your legs you can use this to lean on, or you just put your showergel and shampoo ( preferably organic or ecofriendly ones!) It is safe!

What else do you need for a nice showering session?: bodyscrub(gloves), a file for your calluses, bodywash, shampoo, conditioner, clean razor . Make sure you have this ready before you take a shower, as it saves showertime.

Do you want to be even better for the environment? You can install a water saving shower head. Some of them can also filter the water, and prevent harsh metals and other stuff to get into your hair (which can make your hair color dull)

And to top your sustainable conscience, you pee in the shower.

Yes that's right! A brazilian campaign shows people that it is saves water! And on top of that, peeing over your feet keeps your feet healthy. (for real!)

Enough reason to take a nice, but short, shower I think!

tlc.howstuffworks.com/home/how-to-clean-bathroom3.htm
www.ecover.com
www.leifheitus.com/Cabino-Squeegee--plu41650.html

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We should think of our body as a miracle machine that does everything to keep us healthy and happy.

While you sleeping at night, your body is going thru detox process - it is getting rid of old toxins and waste that you receive thru polluted air, unclean water, unhealthy food ... You name it.

To me , the most important meal of the day is breakfast. How you will feel the whole day is simply depends on what you have first thing in the morning.

My advise to everyone is to start your day with glass of warm water and fresh squeezed lemon juice. Lemons are very alkalizing on your body, so you will have stronger immune system. Besides, lemons are very cleansing for your intestines.

Wait 30 min and then you can have your breakfast, It is very important to have fruit as a first food entering your body. Try to keep is simple - chose one fruit that you enjoy most and have it as much as you want till the lunch time.

My favorite breakfast is melon smoothie!

I take one cantaloupe melon - split it in half - spoon out the seeds. Then I take my blender and put ripe flesh into it. I blend everything well and thats it! Sometimes I add almond milk and it tastes even better!

Love, Val

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Seen any good movies lately? Well, I saw 'The imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus' yesterday, AWESOME! But before that I was invited (thanks to Lonneke) to see something more serious... Beautiful Tuschinski in Amsterdam hosted the premiere of a documentary called 'Sea the truth', a film made possible by political party 'Partij voor de Dieren' and the Nicolaas G. Pierson Foundation. So...early in the morning a large group of people gathered in front of the cinema. Mostly politicians and activists (I felt a little bit like an oddball fashionwise) that were interested to see the sequel to 'Meat the truth'.

Sea the truth describes the alarming situation concerning the fishing industry, focussing mainly on 2 aspects: the shocking decrease of fish in the oceans caused by commercial fishing, and the incredible amount of poison that is polluting the fish. Interviews with scientists and other experts are accompanied by amazing underwater footage of diver Dos Winkel, reminding us how wonderful ocean life is.

Here are some shocking 'highlights' according to the documentary:
- if we continue overfishing, there will be no fish left around 2048. That means we have about 40 years of sushi left (if we're lucky)...
- most commercial fish (except for haring) contain an enormous amount of mercury, much higher than science advices us to eat. And mercury poisoning does not seem fun...
- In the North Pacific Ocean there is a so-called 'island of plastic', (also known as 'plastic soup') a large area of litter in the middle of the ocean. This is obviously terrible for the ocean and it's contaminating the fish that we put in our mouths...
- to make fish oil, a mere 3-5% of the fish is used. And the omega 3 doesn't even come from the fish, it comes from algae.

'Sea the truth' was a good piece of information about an important part of the food industry. Even though the tone of the documentary was slightly moralistic (which always makes me a bit rebellious), I still found it very useful to hear the facts and figures. I thought the problem was well represented, and eye-opening in a way. What I absolutely missed was a 'ray of hope'. Having done research on behavioral change, I am convinced that people will only change if they believe there is a better way. I've never seen someone change their behavior when somebody told them what's wrong without offering a better alternative. The only message I heard in this documentary was: stop eating fish. I never eat meat and very rarely eat fish, but I almost felt like my mommy was scolding me! (and yes, as a result I had a sushi-fest a few days later)

Food is fuel, and what we eat affects our bodies as well as the earth. I myself have been experimenting with my diet this last year to see what makes me feel most healthy and energized, using mainly local products that cause the least waste for our planet. Having said that, I strongly believe that even though we should absolutely take this seriously, we should also feel like this is not a restriction, but rather a choice to live a healthier life. Telling people what to do is rarely effective, but informing people how to do things better for themselves and the planet might have a shot.

But, maybe I'm doing the same exact thing in this blog... ;) So, watch 'Sea the truth' and decide for yourself!

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No, I am not trying to promote drugs! In fact, oil made with hemp seeds is the most healthy and nutritious oil you can possibly add to your diet!

Everybody knows that green salad in your diet is very important. More greens you add to your daily intake the healthier and more energetic you will feel. Chlorophyll that all greens contain in abundance alkalizes your blood which is the key to beautiful skin, nail, hair and overall health!

Before I discovered Hemp Oil, I used to add olive oil in all my salads. I love olive oil and I still use it everyday in my recipes. But I wanted something different, something extra special to add to my meals.

I went to Whole Foods and bought bottle of Hemp Oil, out of curiosity. I've read that It's a much better alternative to Fish Oil, which is obviously not vegan and until fish oil supplements get to supermarket they turn rancid and will do more harm to your body then good.

Hempseed oil contains healthy ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 essential fatty acids. These fatty acids considered essential because they cannot be manufactured by the body. We must receive them from special foods such as hemp oil.

I star using Hemp Oil not just a s supplement ( 1 Tspoon a day) but also to add to my recipes. To me Hemp Oil has delicious nutty flavor. If you find taste to be too strong, mix it with olive oil half and half. Sometimes I put Hemp Oil in my smoothies and juices.

Store it in the fridge and watch out for expiration date - hemp oil is very sensitive and doesn't last long. Enjoy!

love, Val

nutiva.com

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I walked past this little book a number of times without realizing it is in fact a super useful tool!

I thought Clean Plates would be another one of those NY guides that bombards you with endless lists of restaurants around the city without giving you any further advice or guidance.

I couldn't have been more wrong.

Clean Plates is actually a very selective little book with two highly specific criteria: food must taste good and food must be healthy!

Great! That fits perfectly in the Organice Your Life lifestyle.

There are only 75 restaurants listed and all must adhere to certain standards of sustainability (i.e. organic, local and/or animal-friendly.)

Beautiful.

I suggest buying the little book if you live in New York City.

www.cleanplatesnyc.com

08-05-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Truth About Food
Tags: truth | about | food | documentary | bbc | nps |

This week I watched an interesting documentary on the dutch television. It was one in a series of 6, and it was made by the BBC.

This one was called: How to feed your kids?

It was about portion size for kids, how much restriction of certain foods work or not with them, and if it matters where you are when you eat as a family.

Result?

The Kids that were in the experiments, showed that they ate much more if they were in front of a TV while eating instead of at a dinner table, and kids that were told they were not allowed to eat certain foods , had a mysterious attraction to that forbidden food.

It seems kids can be very influenced by what their parents feed them, or how they have dinners together. It seems having the old family dinners at a dinner table are the best option.

I love to prepare the dinner table and cook. So I actually am very happy about this! Although eating in front of the TV is sometimes very convenient and fun...

I want to see all the episodes now!

Those are:

1.How to be Healthy.

2. How to be Sexy (sounds good!!)

3. How to feed Your Kids

4. How to be Slim

5.How to Stay Young and Beautiful ( sounds really good too!!)

6. How to be the Best

On Documentarystorm.com you can see all the episodes too!

www.bbc.co.uk/sn/humanbody/truthaboutfood/
documentarystorm.com/health/the-truth-about-food/

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You know what we forgot to tell you?

OrganiceYourLife.com celebrated one year on May 1st 2010!

Last year, we started this website, to give green and healthy tips, facts and news from insiders within the fashion and entertainment industry to whoever wanted to make his or hers life a bit better!

it has been so much fun, and this website is improving everyday, with the help of you! Come sign up in the Community, and start speaking to others that are on the same path: making the world a bit more beautiful, and yourself happier everyday!

We hope to serve you, and work with you, for many more years to come!

Get Organiced®!

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Last week I went to Ouarzazate, Morocco. You get there by flying to Casablanca, and then onwards to Ouarzazate. This is a different world than I am used to that is for sure!

Ouarzazate, is a place in Morocco known for the big blockbuster movies that are made there. A few of them: Gladiator, Alexander, Kundun and the new Prince of Persia featuring Jake Gyllenhaal, and Sex and the City 2 have all been filmed here! I saw the whole set of the Prince of Persia movie when I was there, and even sat on a horse that was used in many movies!

I was shooting for a luxury Italian designer who is mostly famous for his cashmere, with a hug crew of about 25 people... I was far away from home with people I did not know at all!

For 4 days we were there, and spent the whole day together. You suddenly are very intimate with people you have never met. I sometimes find that weird, as you act like best friends for the days you work, and most of the time, don't see the people for years after that job, and sometimes you don't even see them ever again...

But nice friendships can evolve, and you definitely experience things together, that you will not forget the rest of your live. That is why I love my work, you go to amazing places, experience things you never imagined and build interesting relationships with the people you work with.

Back to Morocco: I ate vegetarian Tajines with local and seasonal vegetables everyday.(very healthy) I saw the most beautiful sand dunes I have only seen in movies ( and the sand dunes in the movies where exactly the ones I saw now). It was simply amazing. ( even though we had to wake up every day very early to catch the first sunlight, as the early sun and late sun are the best light for pictures).

We drove to Merzouga to shoot a bit more, a drive about 6,5 hours with stops included. It was far, but so worth it. That is where I saw the sand dunes, and camels for that matter. We stayed in an amazing "sand castle" a hotel named : Kashbah Timbouktou.

Driving past all the small villages, made me realize how lucky I am. People sometimes don't even seem to have the basic necessities. they live locally, and some will probably never leave the area they live in. Like the boys who take care of the camels there , camels used to have tourists ride them. They have a very special relationship with the camels, who follow them with every step they make. Some of these young boys also sell items to tourists, like bracelets and stones and fossils, which this area is known for. They learn english, italian and even dutch from tourists... That is their life, everyday, work in the desert. But it will be very unlikely that they will travel anywhere the rest of their lives....This is their life, and that is it.

I was amazed by the contact the locals have with nature. They don't complain, they just live with the heat, the sun, the sand. They don't seem to need much. They live on the streets. Animals like dogs, cats, horses and donkeys, seem to have a much rougher life too, than our pets that get organic food and go to the groomer every few weeks...

One more thing: I did notice in the afternoon you only saw men together on terraces enjoying tea( where were the women?). I do know where this comes from... but hey, I like to drink tea too!

We did have an "Arabian Night" one night with the whole team, and danced in the middle of the desert with music by locals. It was full moon, saw many stars and we ate great food, and had an amazing time!

Morocco was definitely a great experience for me, and it opened me up to a total different world, different nature, different people I am used to, and I am very grateful to be able to do that, and share it with you :)

I will add pictures later on the community!

in the meantime: Are you just as excited as me to see Jake Gyllenhaal in Prince of Persia? And Sex and the City 2, who both coincidentally come out on the same date: May 28th 2010?

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24-04-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Cook for your friends!
Tags: cooking | recipe | lonneke |

I just made a very nice meal for Anne-Marie and myself!

It was stuffed (orange) peppers with a healthy salad!

I think Anne-Marie liked it :)

Find the recipe by clicking the community link below!
(and you can react yourself too!)

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23-04-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Christie's: A Bid to Save the Earth
Tags: christie | green | auction | oceana | earth |

Yesterday on the 40th Earth Day,me and my fellow dutchie friend Doutzen Kroes went to Christie's first Green auction: A Bid to Save the Earth.

It is always fun to go to events, especially when they are for a great cause!

Doutzen was so fanatic, she even wore green, haha! For me it was last minute, so I had to grab a vintage dress out of my closet, which I love(and vintage is the original Green), and went with her.

This night 4 charitable causes were in the spotlight, and all profits would go to them. These causes were:

1. OCEANA: to help preserve the sharks in the oceans. Sharks are the "lions of the sea, and we need them for a healthy marine ecosystem. Unfortunately a lot of sharks are killed every year for there fins. Oceana works to restore the shark populations, and thus the whole ocean ecosystem.

2. CENTRAL PARK CONSERVANCY: Don't you like spending an afternoon chilling in Central Park, NYC, together with 35 million visitors every year? To upkeep the park, the environment and the wildlife, the CPC needs money to do so.

3. CONSERVATION INTERNATIONAL: A cause that believes people need nature to thrive. they now fight for the Kayapo tribe, who lives in the largest single tract of tropical rainforest in the world. Because of conflicts and high rates of deforestation in their area close to the Amazon, this area is endangered. CA works hard in protecting this land, which is needed to keep the earth healthy too!

4. NRDC: a leader in conservation efforts to protect the iconic gray wolves of the Northern Rockies.

The auction raised more than 2 million dollars!
Woohoo!
www.abidtosavetheearth.org
celebrity-gossip.net/doutzen-kroes/doutzen-kroes-green-aucti
www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE63M0H520100423

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23-04-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Priti Nailpolish remover
Tags: priti | nail | polish | remover | sustainable nyc |

You know what is so annoying?

At some point after you had a great manicure or pedicure, the color wears off, and you need to take it all off.

Usually you use a smelly nail polish remover that dries out your nails, and gives you a headache.

Not anymore!

I found Priti nail polish remover at Sustainable NYC (a great store where you can buy anything green, organic and/or fairtrade, like gifts, shoes and food)

Priti is based on soy, and it does smell, but not as bad.It is non-toxic. Best thing is, the nail polish comes right off, and it leaves your nails shiny and healthy!

This company also has a big line of nail polishes and other products, that are all vegan, cruelty free, non toxic and organic, but I have not tried it yet!

I am happy with doing so many shoots a week, and changes of nail polishes, I can take it off without ruining my nails!

http://www.pritinyc.com/Soy-Remover-4-oz-_p_28.html

21-04-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Tomorrow is Earth Day 2010!
Tags: earth | day | 2010 |

April 22nd 2010 is Earth Day.

On the Earth Day official Website:
"Forty years after the first Earth Day, the world is in greater peril than ever. While climate change is the greatest challenge of our time, it also presents the greatest opportunity – an unprecedented opportunity to build a healthy, prosperous, clean energy economy now and for the future.

Earth Day 2010 can be a turning point to advance climate policy, energy efficiency, renewable energy and green jobs. Earth Day Network is galvanizing millions who make personal commitments to sustainability. Earth Day 2010 is a pivotal opportunity for individuals, corporations and governments to join together and create a global green economy. Join the more than one billion people in 190 countries that are taking action for Earth Day."

What is your action tomorrow towards a greener, and better world?

www.earthday.org/earthday2010

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20-04-2010 | Posted by: Mallory June
Rockin' Raw Restaurant
Tags: rockin raw | restaurant | raw | food | vegan |

I found the most amazing raw food restaurant!

I was so excited when the cool colorful sign with the name Rockin' Raw was a raw food restaurant, located near my apartment in Williamsburg on north 8th street.

My boyfriend and I couldn't wait to try it out!

The atmosphere in the restaurant is great, not too many tables upbeat music and a very friendly staff who are very eager to explain to you what the benefits of their foods are.

The first thing I noticed was the fridge filled with desserts. colorful lively looking foods. With ingredients including mostly only cocoa, cinnamon, nuts, agave nectar, dates, fruits some grains. Amazing!

On my way home from a long day of work or on my way to a relaxing dinner and movie with friends I like to stop at Rockin' Raw to pick up a delicious rich healthy guilt free piece of strawberry chocolate cake or a cinnamon roll.

My boyfriends' favorite is the chocolate milkshake, we found out today it is made of pure cocoa, agave nectar and home made cashew milk! You feel so great after you drink it!

The menu is huge and has everything you could desire but everything is raw, meaning it is food that is not heated above 115 degrees Fahrenheit ( 46 degrees Celsius.) Raw foodists believe that foods cooked above this temperature lose a lot of its nutritional value and it may be harmful.

The restaurant is described as live-vegan-raw-organic-peruvian-new-orleanian-creole-cuisine-with-soul-from-williamsburg-brooklyn-to-you.

Make sure you make a visit to mama Rosa's Rockin' Raw restaurant when you come to Williamsburg!
vegetarian.about.com/od/glossary/g/RawVegan.htm
www.rockinraw.com

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I found this new drink that is absolutely DELICIOUS!
Called Crystal Clear SHINE.
Usually Crystal Clear has only fruit flavored waters.
But this time it’s more than fruit flavor.
SHINE is a drink with spring-water, B-vitamins, Aloe Vera and has practically no calories.
All ingredients to help you live healthy and look shiny!

There are two types of bottles:
A green one which has an Apple-Jasmine flavor.
And a pink one with a Cranberry-elderberryblossom flavor.

My favorite is the pink one.
It has my two favorite flavors! (Have I mentioned my cranberry love before??? Hihi)

I’m not sure if it’s available in the US but if you happen to come across these bottles, don’t hesitate to try one.

[...discuss this blog item in our community...]

15-04-2010 | Posted by: Mallory June
Sprouted Pumpkin Seeds
Tags:

Yesterday I found this amazing delicious really healthy snack at Whole foods.

Raw sprouted pumpkin seeds with celtic sea salt.

I love the vibrant green colored bag it comes in making it look even more healthy then it already is, with huge letters on it saying 100 % ORGANIC GO RAW SPROUTED PUMPKIN SEEDS.

On the back of the bag it explains that pumpkin seeds are considered to be one of the healthiest foods in the world, that pumpkin seeds are high in amino acids, zinc, protein, iron and many believe they can help prevent prostate cancer.

They are considered a raw food, vegan, organic and wheat/gluten free.

They are so good to just snack on or to sprinkle on a salad. A few handfuls filled me up so I wasn't tempted to eat the entire bag all at once!

They are from the brand GO RAW, check out the website link I connected for this product and more Raw food goodies!
www.goraw.com/categories/Sprouts
www.wholefoods.com

11-04-2010 | Posted by: Mallory June
Easter camping trip!
Tags:

For easter weekend me and a few friends decided we wanted to go on a camping trip somewhere in New York.

A few weeks before we drove my boyfriends car up to New York from Texas to explore New York and its surroundings, this would be the perfect first trip to do so.

After a bit of searching online we found a campsite in New Jersey that looked pretty great.

We split up the tasks to prepare for our adventure. The men took care of the tents and the barbeque and the ladies went to Trader Joes on the day of departure to fill the car with all sorts of goodies. Organic hotdogs, whole grain baguettes, hummus, grahams crackers, chocolate and marshmallows to make smores, lots of eggs (for easter breakfast) and much more.

After a 2 hour drive we arrived at our campsite. I was so pleasantly surprised! It was located in the woods, with the fresh breeze of the ocean and squirrels running around everywhere.

The next 2 days we spent laying out in the sun, cooking amazing meals on our little barbeque, playing basketball, taking walks at night exploring the woods ( a little scary though) and going to the beach.

On easter morning we carried on my families tradition of decorating eggs, I brought a kit that had all sorts of colors of dye and glitter in it, we each made an egg for some body. It was so much fun!

A few days earlier I found these cute little easter baskets and colorful grasses to fill them with in Williamsburg for the easter egg hunt I had planned for my friends.

After breakfast my friend and I hid the chocolate eggs all around the campsite, in the trees, behind rocks and in the grass. We made the guys hide in the tent.

I had the least eggs in the end because I wanted the guys to find them in the clever spots I hid them.

I ended up eating most of their chocolate eggs afterwards anyways ;)

The last day at sunset my boyfriend, Pierce (he's a photographer) took some pictures of all of us in this beautiful field we found filled with perfect rows of peach trees.

I felt so happy, refreshed and healthy after spending those few days in the outdoors, recharged and ready to get back to daily life in crazy New York City.

But first I needed a shower!

www.reserveamerica.com/campgroundDetails.do?subTabIndex=0&co

31-03-2010 | Posted by: Mallory June
THE PH MIRACLE DIET
Tags: ph miracle | diet | breast | cancer | story |

I want to share my story with you:

My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer last June. after 8 months of chemo, radiation a breast mastectomy and the removal of some lymph nodes she is finally done with treatments!

The day I found out about her illness (I was in New York) I went to a health food store in the Lower East Side and started talking to the guy who worked there.

I told him about my moms situation and he recommended this book called the PH MIRACLE DIET.

It is a diet designed by Dr. Robert Young. He claims that it can cure cancer. His theory is that cancer is caused by metabolic acids that build up in the blood and then get released in to the tissues. Cancer is an acidic liquid that spill into your cells, tissues and organs and not a mutation of cells.
Food is either acidic or alkaline, and the point of this diet is to get your blood as alkaline as possible by eating the right kinds of foods. (Vegetables, nuts and seeds, tofu, fish, sprouted beans, grains) most of the food you eat should be raw.

Well we wanted to give Dr Young a try and see if it can help my mom feel better through all the treatments she had to go through to battle this awful disease.

I went to all kinds of health food stores in Holland to find the supplements my mom would need while on this diet. I convinced my parents to buy a juicer to juice vegetables.

Once my mom started with her chemos she became so ill she couldn't stick only to the strict diet of mostly raw vegetables.

Im so happy that now she is finished with all of her treatments she decided to go for the diet 100 percent.

She's helping her body become really strong again by eating these super healthy foods.
She has been on the diet for about a month now and people say she looks much better!

When I go to Holland in a few weeks I promised her I'm going to cook her some good alkalizing meals, I've already found some great recipes..

I will post them on here if they are a succes!!!

-Disclaimer: This is an individual story. Always consult a qualified doctor before you take on any diet or treatment, especially if you are suffering from a disease-
www.ph-miracle-diet.org/index.php

[...discuss this blog item in our community...]

I’m still going strong on my health food diet.
(Lost almost 4KG!!!!)

But I found a good alternative for when I’d like something sweet.
DRIED CRANBERRIES!!!
Hhhmmmm!!!
They’re like raisins, but only better!
It’s like eating a piece of candy, only this time it’s good for me.

Check out the forum for more about my quest to become a lot healthier!

[...discuss this blog item in our community...]

26-03-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Bose Headphones rock!
Tags: bose | headphone | apple | store |

I fly a lot, all around the world, and I used to be so tired upon arrival. Well, those days are over!

I have a solution! There is no scientific proof for my findings, but I believe in it so much myself!

What am I talking about? I am talking about my Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones. Ever since I use them, I am SO much more relaxed and fit when I arrive in a new time zone.

I eat healthy, (carrots with vitamin D for less jetlag), drink lots of water, and sleep a lot to avoid a major jetlag. But now I sleep much better, as you put on these Bose Headphones, you don't hear your surroundings anymore: It's silent!

And you can agree: The noise of the running engines midflight is pretty loud. I am always happy to arrive safe, but if I can do it while feeling great, that is even better.

With these headphones on, it totally channels out the outside world. Listening to the movie is so nice now, and sleeping is quiet...

I have had them for 3 months now, and I am absolutely hooked on them. Great sound, and it comes in a nice case, so they stay safe. Funny thing: They put in Bose business cards in case people see the headphones and get just as excited as the owner and want to get them for themselves: the card tells you exactly where to go.

I bought them in the Apple store in NYC. They are not cheap ($299,95) but totally worth it. If you listen to music a lot, or travel a lot, this is a must-have.
www.bose.com/controller?event=DTC_LINKS_TARGET_EVENT&DTCLink
store.apple.com/us/product/TX256VC/A?mco=MTY3ODQ5OTY

Ok this makes it official.
I’m going on a DIET!!

Not some fancy programs or hyped superplans.
This time I’m going to eat HEALTHY!

Promises I made to myself:
I will…
…eat low-fat,
…eat no sugar,
…spread my food more across the day (instead of stuffing my face two or three times a day),
…never ever skip breakfast,
…drink lots of water (one big glass before I eat) and try to reach 3 liters a day,
…eat lots of proteins, vegetables and fibers,
…chew my food more thoroughly,
…only take a bite if my mouth is empty (haha that means I have to pay attention to what I eat),
…eat all the stuff I allow myself when I feel hungry (mental check if I’m really hungry or just bored),

So this should get me a little bit healthier!
(ok,ok, a LOT!! ---- > not in denial!!!)

This blog should keep me focused and committed!
I will write some more in the future about stuff I find about different foods or mental tips etc. that help me in my quest.

[...discuss this blog item in our community...]

18-03-2010 | Posted by: Anne-Marie Van Dijk
White House confronts food giants!
Tags: michelle | obama | food | reform |

For once, I am really proud - it seems the White House has taken on the giant food companies asking them to change their habits and sell healthier food products while disclosing more accurate information about the nutritional content of their products.

Michelle Obama is the true hero behind this cause asking for an industrywide commitment.

Although her initiative focuses primarily on reforming school lunches and vending machines with the hopes of fighting child-obesity and providing kids with healthier menu options, it is clear that her message is of wider importance - Her ultimate goal:

"to see less confusing food labels and portion sizes and increased marketing for healthy foods. She urged companies not just to find creative ways to market products as healthy but to increase nutrients and reduce bad ingredients."

Bull's-eye!

This is what the country needs, and Michelle Obama could be the first to lead the way.

Congratulations on an excellent move!
www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/03/16/michelle-obama-talks-anti_

07-03-2010 | Posted by: Maruja Retana
Freeze!
Tags: maruja | frozen | vegetables | healthy |

Even though it's really fun to go to a farmer's market and look for the nicest looking fruit and vegetables, what seems to be even healthier? Frozen vegetables! Since they are usually frozen right after harvesting, the vitamins are preserved a little better. 'Fresh' vegetables (unless you grow them yourself in the backyard) lay around for a while because of the distribution process of about 2 weeks, causing them to los nutritional value. So let's ditch the bad rap, let's go frozen!

[...discuss this blog item in our community...]

02-03-2010 | Posted by: Maruja Retana
How to live to be a 100!
Tags: maruja | 100 | healthy | lifestyle | blue zones |

Referring to my last blog, I want to get a little more into one specific subject. Dan Buettner did a very interesting research on how to live a healthy and long life. He found out there are a few areas that he calls 'blue zones', where people live to be over a hundred years old in a measurably better way! Wow, who doesn't want that?? Since my sweet grandmother lived to be 98 and I myself am half Costarican (one of the blue zones) I had hoped I was blessed with great genes that made me set for an awesome 100+ life. But...genes are only about 10% responsibe! So....what's the secret of the 'blue zoners'?

1. They move naturally:
None of the people he interviewed went to the gym. None! Instead, their lives were naturally filled with movement. They gardened, worked on a farm, or walked to the vineyard down the mountain every day. Also, when they did 'exercise', it was only for fun. Whether it was dancing, playing with the kids, sailing or playing soccer, they purely did it out of enjoyment.

2. They have the 'right' outlook:
Work to live, instead of living to work. Also, one of the most important things he found was a strong sense of purpose, having a reason to get out of bed each day and that makes you truly enthousiastic. And...no matter how busy the day is, always have at least one moment of peace and relaxation every day!

3. They eat wisely:
Their diets were mainly plant-based, so a lot of vegetables and fruit were consumed. Meat and processed food were an exception! Moderation seemed to be a key word, many of them ate about 80% of what they initially wanted to eat. We have a saying that goes: the eyes are bigger than the stomach, which is so true! Instead of piling up the food on their plate, they took a little less. It takes a little while for the brain to realize the stomach is full, so I personally thought this was a very good idea. But don't think these ladies and gents were depriving themselves of some fun! A couple of glasses of red wine per day turned out be very common.

4. They belong to the 'right' tribe
A strong circle of family and friends, and a sense of belonging proved to be very critical. Often, the 100+ people lived with their children and grandchildren. It kept them young and gave them a sense of importance. Giving life advice to a grandchild is a win-win situation, good for everybody. For some guidance of their own, they turned to a higher power. They all had strong religious or spiritual belief system that made them resilient and grateful.

Interesting stuff, right? Check out the links for some more information.
http://www.bluezones.com
http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/dan_buettner_how_to_live_
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dan_Buettner

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30-01-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Oprah is right again!
Tags: oprah winfrey | food inc | michael pollan | eric schlosser |

What is the best thing to do when you are not feeling well?

Chill on the couch, with a blanket and pillow, and watch an episode of the Oprah Winfrey Show!

So I did that this week.
One of the shows this week, Oprah talked about the documentary "Food Inc.", which made a big impression on her.

The whole show was about the reality of our daily dish. Expert Michael Pollan, who was a guest on the show, talked about the status of our food, and the food industry in America ( and also about the worldwide problems)

His newest book: "Food Rules", together with "An Omnivore's Dilemma" and "In Defense of Food" are a must read!

What is food? What is in your food? Where does it come from? What can you eat? What is healthy?

It is hard to know the answers to these questions, and I am happy Oprah focussed on these questions one full episode! She is as keen on this movie as I am, and everyone should watch and have their own opinion.

So watch this episode, read the books and facts, and form your own opinion. KNOW what is in your FOOD!

Below are links to help you do that.

Great show Oprah!
www.oprah.com/oprahshow/Food-Expert-Michael-Pollans-Food-Rul
www.foodincmovie.com
www.amazon.com/Food-Inc-Eric-Schlosser/dp/B0027BOL4G

27-12-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Survived Christmas?
Tags: food | christmas | new year | 2010 |

Did you enjoy this year's Christmas?

Spending time with family and friends, singing Christmas carols by a nice Christmas tree, giving and receiving (hopefully) good gifs. But most of all.... how much did you eat?!?

I always enjoy christmas time, but I could go without the stress of organizing Christmas, decorating, buying all the foods, and preparing them. Most of the time you throw half of it away after Christmas. Or, maybe even worse, you have eaten it all!

Almost everyone feels like a stuffed turkey after Christmas. And everyone is already thinking: let's eat better, or go on a diet!
Most people do overeat during these holidays, but why?
Because it is nice to do it with people you love. Eating together forms a bond, and people eating together, usually eat too much.

After these days I never go on a diet. I do eat lots and lots of fruits and vegetables in the days after. I also try to hide all the leftover chocolates and other bad foods.... Or I give it away.
I now go for smaller, healthy meals... and try to do a work out one way or another: even a walk in the brisk air outside will do good!

We have one more "tough" day ahead of us: New Year's Eve.
With lots of Champagne and even more food, it is a challenge. But I believe we can resist, or at least if you eat :enjoy!
And remember: every day is a new day, a new start. If you ate bad foods yesterday, you can do better today.

I am looking forward to the New Year! you too?

[...discuss this blog item in our community...]

14-12-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Angelica Kitchen, NYC
Tags: angelica kitchen | new york city | food | restaurant |

New York City has many good restaurants, and also a few really good and healthy ones!

One of them is Angelika Kitchen, as they serve healthy, unrefined dishes, without any animal products, so lots of vegetables and brown rice!

Most of the ingredients,about 95% are at least organically grown. And also most ingredients are on your plate within 48 hours of harvesting them.

Angelika Kitchen respects the environment and responsible businesses, and also the people who make the food have their ( and my) admiration.

My favorites are the casserole, and the dragon bowl. Also the rice pudding for dessert with plums are amazing! Healthy food can be good and tasty at same time. Taste what nature has to offer!

Angelika Kitchen is located at:

300 East 12th street, tussen 1st avenue en 2nd avenue.
NYC, NY 10003
11.30am-10.30pm
tel +12122282909
www.angelicakitchen.com

02-12-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Paul McCartney is promoting Vegetarianism in the European Union
Tags: paul mccartney | vegetarianism | european union |

I read this following article on maccablog.co.uk: "Paul McCartney and Rajendra Pachauri are calling on mayors and other policy makers to tackle the overconsumption of meat in western countries. In a letter, they point out the relationship between meat and climate change and suggest that governments develop initiatives to raise awareness about the issue among their citizens. The ex-Beatle and the IPCC chairman will also address the European Parliament in an event called ‘Less Meat = Less Heat’, on December 3.

In the letter, McCartney and Pachauri point out that the livestock sector is responsible for 18% of greenhouse gas emissions. Consequently, one of the most powerful weapons against climate change may very well be… our fork. However, McCartney and Pachauri also state that the efforts of individuals, however important, are limited, and that ‘it is also the responsibility of governments and industries to ensure that sustainable alternatives like plant-based products are widely available and affordable.’ They list a number of initiatives that governments have taken, such as the weekly veggie day campaigns in Ghent and Hasselt (Belgium), São Paulo (Brazil) and the Meat Free Monday and Meatless Monday campaigns in the UK and the US respectively.

On December 3, McCartney and Pachauri will address the European Parliament on the topic of ‘Less Meat = Less Heat’. Four days before the UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, the event reflects a perception that climate change needs to be addressed at all levels – especially individual but also at local, regional, national, across Europe and worldwide.

According to the FAO, the livestock sector is in the top three causes of any major environmental problem, including land degradation, climate change and air pollution, water shortage and water pollution and loss of biodiversity. Eating less meat (and other animal products) is not only healthy for our planet, but also for our body. A WHO study has shown that a decrease in saturated fat by just one percent would result in about 13.000 less deaths of cardiovascular disease in Europe per year. And last week, a new study in the Lancet pointed out that a reduction of livestock production with 30% might decrease the number of premature deaths by heart disease by 17%."

I really like it that the whole McCartney family is working so hard on stopping animal cruelty and a better environment!

Source: Categorynet.com/Maccablog.co.uk.

www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5jzc3oulh3mmDKPGE
www.paulmccartney.com/

28-11-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Hotel Axel Copenhagen!
Tags: hotel | axel | copenhagen | green | organic |

Hotel Axel Copenhagen is a gem. Located in the middle of the centre of Copenhagen, behind the main train station, is an oasis of peace, quiet, and organic foods.

Seriously, the organic buffet for dinner, has many options to choose from! Chef Daniel Whitney, an american who lived in NYC for a long time, now cooks at the restaurant a lot of different, simple but healthy and tasty dishes.

I liked the tofu-paksoy stir fry, and the fennel salad!
Hotel Axel is part of a chain of Hotel Guldsmeden. On their website they have expressed their philosophy:
"The first Hotel Guldsmeden opened in 1999 in Århus by Sandra and Marc Weinert, who are still the sole owners and concept developers of the Hotel Guldsmeden chain, which now encompasses 4 hotels in Denmark, a luxury holiday resort in Bali, and our latest project in France - Villa Libellule.
Hotel Guldsmeden is founded on the basis of love for good hostmanship. This is the common denominator for all our hotels, and key to maintaining our particular intimate and informal atmosphere.
Hotel Guldsmeden is also strongly motivated by a sustainable and meaningful operation, and have been so since the beginning in 1999. Our concept today is not just green but dark green - and this is supported by the small and large initiatives that we have implemented in our daily operation."

Hotel Guldsmeden tries to be as sustainable, organic, and fair trade as possible. The minibar is fully organic, the furniture is sustainable, and they for instance recycle the coffee pads from breakfast into a scrub in the spa.

Next time I am back In Copenhagen I am going to stay there!

Axel Hotel Guldsmeden
Helgolandsgade 11
DK-1653 CPH.V.
www.hotelguldsmeden.com

20-11-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Delta is doing good!
Tags: delta | airlines | vegetarian | food |

American airline companies are not known around the world for their amazing service onboard. But it is nice to see an american airline to try to do better.

Since merging with Northwest, Delta seems to walk a different path when it comes to service. It is getting better and that's a good thing! I can only tell it from my experience recently.

The past years after 9-11 it has been hard for the airline industry, in America especially. People seem to only complain, but I want to cheer on an airline if it is trying to do something better!

I flew yesterday from Paris to Atlanta and then onto Miami, and a few things i noticed. For instance, when we arrived at the gate, we were thanked by our own captain Wigglesworth ( I love that name and I hope I spelled it correctly) It gives a face to the flight, as normally you just hear, but not really see who is steering the wheel, and who in fact has your life in his or her hands.

The other thing I noticed, was not the familiar question in Economy Class:" Chicken or Beef?" which I always answer "No" as I do not eat meat. But this time it was: " Chicken, pasta, or VEGETARIAN?"
I am shocked. Did I hear that right? A vegetarian option? I must try!

So I did and it was great! Brown rice, steamed broccoli, a bean stew and zucchini stew. I was very happy and I hope Delta continues this ( and other airlines will follow)

Eating on planes is very tricky. Your stomach is already small, but it gets smaller up 30000 feet. So it is important to eat light, which is difficult with the heavy pasta's or beef they give you. And not so healthy either!

So I suggest bringing your own healthy snacks aboard. Drink a lot of water , no alcohol and if an occasion like this happens, where they offer vegetarian, try it!
You can also let the airline know you prefer vegetarian food when you book your ticket.

Keep giving us healthy food options, Delta!

news.delta.com/
www.delta.com

17-11-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Naturalia, France
Tags: paris | naturalia | supermarket | shoot |

I am again in Paris, shooting for French Marie Claire, a really fun shoot. I get 24 (!) pages in the fashion issue next March, if everything goes according to plan. So that is great!

My hotel was booked last-minute, so there was not much choice ( a photography fair or something is happening right now). It is not great, so I won't mention the name, haha! But the people that work there are nice.

It is at Rue Monge, and luckily for me, across the street there is an organic supermarket called Naturalia. Yeah! So the day of arrival I went there and stocked up on healthy stuff.

Organic apples and carrots, multigrain crackers, veggie dips, nuts fresh baguette and kombucha tea I bought.

Naturalia supermarkets are all over Paris, and not only have fresh produce, they also have vitamins, cleaning products and skincare.

You know when you shoot, especially for magazines as those shoots tend to be long and exhausting, you need to take extra care of yourself. So that is what I do!

And today I arrived home from work at 8.15pm so I was happy I had something to eat, as there is no room service here.

I always say: Better be prepared well, than experience the unexpected!

www.naturalia.fr
www.marieclaire.fr

14-11-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Pumpkin!
Tags: pumpkin | risotto |

Halloween is over, but the coming cold months gives enough moments to enjoy pumpkin!

It is very nutritious!
In its raw state pumpkin is an extremely good source of vitamins A and C, essential for maintaining good eyesight and a healthy immune system, among other functions. It is also high in potassium, manganese, copper and one of the B vitamins, riboflavin. Not enough for you? Then consider the fact that pumpkin contains considerable amounts of magnesium, phosphorus, iron, folate, vitamins E and B6, niacin, thiamin and pantothenic acid — and is low in salt, cholesterol and saturated fat.

Only 26kcal per 100grams!

to prepare pumpkin you cut it, take the insides out ( the seeds etc) and then cook it until the skin is soft. you can eat the skin too!

Mashed it is great as a side dish, or in a ravioli, or as a soup.

I personally also like it chopped up in risotto!

I found a great simple recipe on recipezaar.com

Ingredients:

15 g butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion
2 cloves garlic, crushed
6 mushrooms, sliced
1 1/2 cups arborio rice
1 cup diced pumpkin (I use butternut)
3-4 cups hot stock (chicken or vegetable)
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
salt
freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions:

1. Heat butter and oil together in a large saucepan or frypan.
2. Gently cook the onion and garlic.
3. Add the rice and cook, stirring until the rice is coated in the oil mix.
4. Stir in the pumpkin and mushrooms.
6. Pour over 1 cup of the hot stock.
7. Cook, stirring often until the liquid is almost all absorbed.
8. You don't want the liquid to be boiling in with the rice, just a gentle simmer.
9. Continue stirring and adding stock one cup at a time until the stock is all absorbed and the rice is tender.
10. This takes about 20 minutes.
11. You don't need to stand there stirring the whole time if you use a non-stick pot and return often.
12. Stir in the parmesan cheese,seasoning and parsley.
13. It will go lovely and sticky with the cheese.
14. Serve immediately.

Enjoy!
health.ninemsn.com.au/dietandnutrition/recipes/691094/pumpki
www.recipezaar.com/Pumpkin-risotto-23113

12-10-2009 | Posted by: Maruja Retana
Miracle product!
Tags: maruja | jojoba | hair | skin |

Before I decided to focus on music, I worked as a psychologist and gave trainings on the subject of personal effectivity. I would give people advice on how to reach their goals better, and 2 terms I used a lot were 'efficiency' (how you reach a goal) and 'effectivity' (IF you reach a goal). If there's one thing I'm very fond of, it's efficiency... I like it when things make sense, I like it when you can use something for multiple reasons, I love it when I have found the shortest route to what I want. And obviously I want my methods to work as well....

What's with the lecture, you might ask? To illustrate why I almost cried a little bit when I read an article from one of my favorite bloggers, Gala Darling. She wrote about how jojoba oil was 'the elixir of the gods', describing how it is really good (effectivity) for your hair AND skin (efficiency).

Needless to say, I was fascinated by this information... I ordered a bottle from an online shop and tried it out for the past 2 weeks. I used 2 drops of it every night after cleansing but before moisturizing my skin, and 3 drops after I washed my hair. Conclusion: I AM STUNNED! It really works miracles!

My skin is usually of the notorious combination type, where my T-zone is oily and the rest dry. The jojoba oil really evens it out, which is great for so many reasons: obviously it just looks better and healthier, I don't have to touch up my make up during the day, my hair stays cleaner etc.

My hair is curly and thick, and it gets dry very easily. The jojoba oil makes it look very shiny and healthy and my curls really come alive! Also, it seems like I don't have to wash it as often (which could also be the result of my better skin).

Other ways you can use it:
- lip balm
- eye make up remover (that doesn't irritate your eyes)
- shave prep
- massage oil
- for a higher IQ (ok, that might not be true)

I swear I am not a spokesperson for this product (yet). But I could be, I am psyched to have found this! Try it out at home, it's very cheap, you don't need much of it for any purpose (another efficiency factor) and it's effective... And I didn't even mention the fact that your bathroom will look so organized, after you've thrown away your moisturizer, lip balm, make up remover and hair products!
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jojoba_oil
galadarling.com/article/jojoba-oil-is-the-elixir-of-the-gods

11-10-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Local Food: Paella
Tags: spain | paella |

I am in Spain, and what is a real tasty dish from this area?
Yes: Paella!
This dish comes originally from Valencia, an area where the rice is grown. After that it travelled the world as a typically spanish dish.

I like it very much, but how do I make it myself?
You have it sometimes ready to eat, or in a package where you have to add fresh ingredients yourself.
That is very easy!

But you can also make it from scratch, and make it the way you like it. You can add or leave out the ingredients you like and dislike. You can make it with chicken, or with fish, or just with vegetables ( Like I would do). And so you can make it as healthy or unhealthy as you wish!

Below I found tasty recipes to make paella yourself, and when I get back home I am definitely going to try to do so!
www.spain-recipes.com/paellarecipes.html
find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRe
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paella

06-10-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Bio Bircher Muesli in Zurich!
Tags: zurich | bircher | muesli |

I arrived today in Zurich, Switzerland. This is for me the first time that I visit this lovely country. After first changing my hotel- I could not sleep with the terrible noise next door from construction- I went for a walk. It is the best way to see the city. I strolled next to the Limmat river, that cuts right through Zurich. Young people were chilling next to the water. The city seems pretty relaxed. But it is also not cheap! I walked by Prada and Gucci, And maybe because of the Swiss Franc, it all looked pretty expensive. Maybe it is because of all the rich people in Switzerland. After all, it is a tax paradise here.... I walked further to the old part, the part that goes uphill. ( Very good work out for your behind!) I made some nice pictures there. But I got really excited when I found a small, organic shop, located in a small street: Muller Vital Shop on the Fraumunster Strasse. I bought some nice organic creams there to try out, and bought some nice snacks, like a fig-nut bread roll, and the best: swiss bio Bircher Muesli! As I am in the place where this dish comes from, a little info:

Muesli was introduced around 1900 by the Swiss physician Maximilian Bircher-Benner for patients in his hospital,[2] where a diet rich in fresh fruit and vegetables was an essential part of therapy. It was inspired by a similar "strange dish" that he and his wife had been served on a hike in the Swiss Alps. Bircher-Benner himself referred to the dish simply as "d'Spys" (Swiss German for "the dish", in German "die Speise"). Muesli in its modern form became popular in western countries starting in the 1960s as part of increased interest in health food and vegetarian diets.

So I had that for dinner after my workout, as it is light and very healthy. The swiss people eat it also as a light evening dish, together with "butterbrot" and coffee. It is delicious!

Now I am going to sleep because tomorrow I have to do a photoshoot!

info:Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zürich
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muesli
editor.nourishedmagazine.com.au/articles/bircher-muesli

05-10-2009 | Posted by: Nancy Bommel
Fairly Traded Argan Oil from Morocco
Tags:

A year and a half ago I travelled with Kiehl’s to Morocco. A trip to celebrate the upcoming launch of a whole range of products based on fairly traded argan oil. This organic Argan Oil is derived from the Argan Tree and is naturally rich in poly-unsaturated fatty acids, including Tocopherols (Vitamin E), and Omega-6 and Omega- 9 fatty acids, which are known for having restorative and protective properties on the skin. And as this Argan Tree in it’s uniqueness was only to be found in the Moroccan Atlas Mountains we all witnessed the production process on the spot and met Berber families who were supported by the sales of this healthy oil.
So I’m happy to hear that a year after the launch to the public Kiehl’s shows us a piece of their “Giving back to the Community” policy by introducing Limited Editions of the Superbly Restorative Body Lotion. One of them carries the name of Erykah Badu! This award winning American soul singer and songwriter can also be described as a mother, a touring artist, teacher, community activist, holistic leader, vegan, recycler and a conscious spirit. Her charity organization BLIND (Beautiful Love Incorporated Non Profit Development) profits from this collaboration and Kiehl’s is donating 100% of net Kiehl’s proceeds of these Limited Edition Label Art Series to the Waterkeeper Alliance.
So what are we waiting for?

www.looktothestars.org/charity/796-blind
www.wateralliance.org/

16-09-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
CFDA Health Initiative Cards
Tags: cfda | model | cards |

Great News!

The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) have given out information cards to models,agents and others at the fashion shows and events during fashion week.

These cards called: "Model Foods for a Model Life" , are for models, and outline four strategies to feel and look your best during fashion week, from healthy breakfast option to eating lean protein and fiber meals and snacks throughout the day, all compiled by nutrition expert Joy Bauer.

It is good that these initiatives happen, although I still feel every person (and every model) is an inidividual and has specific needs.

www.cdfa.com

13-09-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Good way to save water: Pee in the shower!
Tags: pee | douche | save | water | sos mata atlantica |

It sounds gross maybe, but it is actually really good:
Peeing while taking a shower!

This way you save water.
Instead of going to the toilet seperately, you pee while you are showering!

A family can save this way about 4380 liters of water a year( by not flushing the toilet). so it is not only good for the environment, it also saves you money.

Especially when you shower in the morning, is it healthy to pee. Because morning urine is sterile, and therefore cleansing your feet. A Grandmother's Tip says it protects your feet from nasty problems, like smelly feet or infections. It also makes your feet feel softer. And the pee goes straight into the same gutter as it would when flushing the toilet.

A brazilian Enviroment organization SOS Mata Atlantica even started a campaign to promote peeing while showering for enviromental reasons.
(video)

Of course I do it too: Anything to save the environment!
www.sosmatatlantica.org.br/

02-09-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Apples are healthy!
Tags: apples | research | healthy foods |

The belgian news paper "Het Laatste Nieuws" reports that eating your daily fruit is more important for your health than experts thought at first, a recent research shows.

Scientists analysed the characteristics of apples, peaches and nectarines. They found that these fruits have 5 times more polyfenols than previously thought.

Professor Dr Paul kroon: "Bacteria in the intestines use these Polyfenols to make components that are important for your health, they stimulate for instance the activity of antioxidants."

This research proves that these components are very important to keep people healthy.

Professor Kroon: "Polyfenolen fight infections and malignant tumors. They also protect the cells against damage of free radicals and they prevent heart disease. Research also shows us these components lower the risk of Alzheimer considerably.

So I would say: Eat your (Organic) fruits!

www.hln.be

29-08-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Good Food on a Shoot in Amsterdam!
Tags: shoots | lunch | elle |

yesterday I shot with photographer Marc de Groot.
(He is going to marry the love of his life Irena on the 5th of September, who is an amazing hair dresser and make up artist. Funny enough the stylist of Elle also is getting married on the 5th of September, to all: congratulations!).

We shot the cover for dutch Elle.

I was happy (again) because we got a really nice lunch at the Witman Kleipool Studio in Amsterdam, prepared by Christien Engelbronner, who takes care of the catering at this studio, while also being a dietician ( and a mom).

Great fresh bread, cheese, tasty salad and a homemade soup made of snap peas, and for desserts there were real smelling and great tasting fresh strawberries, it was all delicious!

I always say, eating good food at a shoot is important to keep the whole crew happy, and give a model enough energy to look amazing in the picture. Food is the base of a good shoot.
I definitely think this was a really easy, fun shoot, and I hope the pictures will be great!

picture by Marc de Groot: Lonneke ( with hair in rollers) and Christien talk about the importance of healthy food and how to prepare it.
www.marcdegroot.nl
www.elle.nl

27-08-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
The Good Life!
Tags: organic | vegetable garden |

After I shot for the new Esprit Home Collection in Brussels this week, I visited my dear friend Jessica van der Steen (also a very successful belgian model), as she lives very close. I was welcomed in her lovely house, by her 2 puppies. I saw her walking from the back of the garden, holding a big box with vegetables. "Grown in her own back yard" she said.There were a lot of vegetables, and I have never seen a bigger zucchini in my life! And the herbs... they smelled so good! Together with her neighbor she keeps a vegetable garden in the back of her garden. And today it was time to harvest. Jessica was giving away all these fresh produce, and I was very lucky: I got the big zucchini! I am already thinking what I am going to make with it... A healthy vegetable lasagna? Or maybe a zucchini soup? I was very happy when I left, as I feel this is how it should be: Just a small garden and just growing your own vegetables. She said it is not difficult at all... When I get my own garden, I will definitely ask her for advice!

Jessica made my day and I went home with healthy food!
www.thegardenhelper.com/vegetables.html

17-08-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Orthorexia Nervosa
Tags: orthorexia | nervosa | healthy foods |

When you are obsessed with eating healthy, and your life is basically turning around the decisions and thoughts about healthy food, and it takes over your life, it can eventually make you sick. That disease is called Orthorexia Nervosa.

Next to Boulimia and Anorexia this is a disease that is upcoming, according to a British study. The people that have orthorexia, want to be in charge of everything that gets into their mouth, and it has to be the purest form. If not, they feel they get poisoned. It takes over their life.

read the link below to see a report that was published in the UK Telegraph.

I personally think I am very into healthy eating. And it has only improved my life standards. It can be called obsessive, or just a challenge. For me it is a challenge to eat at and support restaurants that have good standards.To learn about organic farming, and cooking nutritious meals. It makes the world a bit better. But it is not that I think about every bite I eat, or weigh my food. I do go out of my way if I crave a certain dish. I will go travel to get to that place to eat it.

The more places that offer healthy food, the choices will be growing for us people. The people that I know that are into health food, are young, athletic, succesful men and women, who actually because of this lifestyle, have more energy and get more work done. They also don't have mood swings as often, as they feel fine most of the time. They are also less likely to drink coffee, alcohol or use drugs to get an "upper". The spirit of life is a natural upper for them!

I hope this is not a research from people that support fast food. because I believe eating organic and natural foods is the best for your body. And I do also believe you can prevent diseases, and improve quality of life. Just don't go over the top. But thinking about what you put in your mouth every day, is a good thing. People should be more aware of things they eat. But you have to have a balance between eating good, and staying grounded and being social with others instead of living in your own world. It should improve your joy of life and not become a struggle!

Also watch part 1 of ABC's 20/20 with John Stossel below. It shows every angle, including health guru Viktoras Kulvinskas defending the raw/life food theory, and a few Orthorexia victims talking about how eating right took over their life.

ps. the picture is just a woman eating a strawberry. I found it on internet, and it is just to emphasize my idea that you need to be aware of what you put in your mouth. I do not know who she is, but she probably doesn't have an eating disorder!

www.telegraph.co.uk/health/healthnews/6038301/Rise-in-orthor
www.naturalusa.com/viktor/

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12-08-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Guide to Ocean Friendly Seafood
Tags: fish | oceanfriendly | guide | salmon |

The Blue Ocean Institute made up a list of all fish so you have a better idea of which fish is endangered, and which fish is relatively ok to eat.

The list contains about at least 32 fishes, and states if they are caught with fishing and farming methods that cause little damage to habitat and other wildlife. Or if that information is unknown. But it shows also if the species has a combination of problems including overfishing, high by catch, poor management or farming methods have serious environmental impact.

They also show the fisheries that target a certain species, are sustainable and well-managed.

the ones in the danger zone include:
Chilean Sea Bass, Atlantic Blue Fin Tuna, Atlantic Halibut, Groueprs Atlantic Cod, Caviar and imported shrimp and even farmed salmon.

for instance the difference between wild Salmon and farmed Salmon:

"Alaska Salmon seems to have good management and fairly healthy habitat and remains abundant, there are concerns however that hatchery-raised fish can adversely affect wild salmon populations through competition and genetic dilution"

and Farmed Salmon:

"Farmed Salmon has high environmental costs, including water pollution, spread of diseases to wild fish populations, high content of wild fish in feed, and OVERUSE OF ANTIBIOTICS. In addition to Atlantic Salmon, farmers are now raising CHinook and Coho Salmon. Wild Atlantic Salmon in the U.S. are endangered. Farms supply all the Atlantic Salmon sold in the U.S.

go to their website for more information, link is below.

Very interesting to look at for next time you go get a piece of fish to cook for dinner!
www.blueocean.org/seafood
www.msc.org

09-08-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
How do Sumo wrestlers get so big?
Tags: gaining weight | sumo wrestlers | breakfast |

Sumo wrestlers are known for their enormous body. But how do they get so fat?

There are a few things they do:

1.
-They don't eat breakfast.
-Then they exercise for a few hours without eating before.
-They do this to get their metabolism down.

2.
-They eat a lot of food for lunch.(+/-10000 calories)
After lunch they take a long nap.

3.
-They eat a big dinner (+/- 10000 calories) and late at night. Then they go to sleep.

4.
-They also consume a lot of alcohol, as alcohol increases cortisol levels and that makes the body store more fat around the abdomen (beer belly)

And this is how they get big fast.
By challenging their metabolism every moment of the day.

Of course this is not healthy.
Sumo wrestlers have a shorter life expectancy , about 10 years shorter than an average japanese man( 60-65 years old). Their health problems include diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, arthritis, liver problems etc.

If your diet looks a bit like this, and you can't lose weight,
maybe you are on the "Sumo Diet"

What we can take from this, is that when you actually eat a good breakfast, you are less likely to gain weight, than when you skip it.

Eating together with others make you eat 40 % more food results show, and have your intake of fat be 30% more than when you eat by yourself!

Also, it is not good to eat late at night.

So:Eat breakfast and skip late night dinners and snacks!

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sumo
www.kitchentablemedicine.com/are-you-on-the-sumo-wrestler-di

08-08-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Joni's
Tags: jonis | montauk | restaurant |

.....And when you get to Montauk, try to go for breakfast or dinner to Joni's. located at 34 South Etna at South Edison street, the smoothies and wraps are delicious!

My favorite is the Zen Rabbit, a spinach wrap with mixed greens, tomato, avocado, red onion, olives, carrot and goat cheese.
And for the smoothie I like the Berry Bliss (blueberry juice with strawberry, raspberry, blueberries and banana)
You can add a boost too!

the breakfast items are tasty too, like the scrambled tofu wrap, or organic oatmeal.

try to be healthy on your holiday!

Joni says:"take me to the beach or take me anywhere!"
And she is right!

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05-08-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Organic Catering
Tags: lonneke | restaurant | food | gusto organics | photo shoot |

I am shooting for Elizabeth Arden in New York city yesterday until tomorrow, and I am very happy!

Because the production team of Elizabeth Arden, arranged a 100% organic breakfast and lunch, catered by the only 100% organic restaurant in New York City: Gusto Organics

I know this restaurant through friend and fellow model: Doutzen Kroes. She also made this restaurant caters many Victoria's Secret photoshoots.

I really think this is an amazing restaurant, with good moral values, especially on the ecological side of it. They recycle ( all the furniture in the restaurant is made of recycled material) and they purify their drinking water themselves. They even cook with it. The energy comes from Green sources. I can continue for a while talking about all the good things this restaurant does. The owner and CEO Alberto Gonzalez put all of his life savings in Gusto Organics, to make it a success. That's how much he believes in the concept, and I do too!

The food is not only healthy and organic, it comes mostly from local farmers, and it tastes great!

The menu yesterday:

For breakfast:
We had different things including: fresh fruit smoothies, omelets from organic eggs, different rolls, pastries and toasts, organic grilled sausages, fresh fruit salad.

For Lunch:
Homemade lemonade of cucumber and lemon juice sweetened with agave syrup. Pasta noodles with a mushroom cream sauce.
Grilled chicken, cooked veggies, fresh salad with different toppings. Mozzarella and tomato empanadas. Dessert was watermelon and dulce de leche cookies.
So something for everybody!

I can't wait for what the menu is tomorrow!

www.gustorganics.com
www.elizabetharden.com

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03-08-2009 | Posted by: Maruja Retana
Massage au chocolat
Tags: maruja | massage | chocolat |

Two things I love with a passion? Chocolate and massages. You can imagine my delight when I recently discovered that you can actually combine the two! Even though both are considered luxury products, I personally believe they are extremely healthy for you and (dare I say it) even quite necessary for your wellbeing.

Why chocolate?
Uhm...seriously? It's just damn good! :D
But it's also actually really good FOR you, especially dark chocolate has a lot of health benefits: It contains alkaloids like theobromine, that increase serotonin and endorphin levels in the brain. (Serotonin has various functions, including control of appetite, mood and anger, endorphins work as natural pain relievers and produce a sense of well being). Scientists also claim that chocolate, eaten in moderation, can lower blood pressure.

Why massages?
(Again: seriously?)
As opposed to the calvinistic belief that massages are a decadent indulgence, they are actually a powerful pain management tool, a very effective stress reliever and therefore a good way to keep your body healthy. Massages relieve pain, reduce anxiety, depression and blood pressure. They also stimulate the release of endorphins and serotonin. Another interesting fact is that they increase peripheral blood lymphocytes, which stimulates the immune system by getting rid of the body's waste products. This is because massages improve both blood and lymph circulation, which helps your body gain strength and maximizes your energy level. Efficient circulation also helps in muscle recovery, growth, and promotes the natural healing process.

Why chocolate massages?
Well, duh... Ok, in the highly unlikely case you're not convinced yet, here's why: Needless to say, it smells delicious, and the warm chocolate on your back feels amazing. But there's much more to it: The combination of almond oil and cocoa really hydrates your skin, and therefore has an anti-aging effect, plus it contains various minerals that improve skin texture. Cocoa contains anti-oxidants, that have a detoxing effect on your body. Also, it contains tannic acid, known for its slimming effect. And this is only the physical part! It's very good for the mind too: The double increase of serotonin and endorphin makes you feel superrelaxed, peaceful and gives you a feeling of happiness.

Can anyone resist...?

http://knol.google.com/k/reeta-juneja/the-chocolate-massag

28-07-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
A little explanation!
Tags: oyl | website | community |

Why did we choose to have a Community attached to this site, and not a comment section?

This is because we are trying to make a big, positive information network available to everyone in the world!

So if you become a member, Lonneke, other OYL bloggers and other people including fellow models will post their ideas and tips online, and you can discuss with them!
And this way, we can talk more in depth about the subjects that are posted on the main OYL site.
ANd it's more interactive!

Also, if you have something you want to share, that has nothing to do with something that you read about on the website, you can post it on the community! As long as it is positive and working towards a better world and a happier you!

Do you need to connect with people? Do you have a great recycling tip? Do you know an amazing restaurant? Share it on the Community and people can use your information, and discuss!

That is the whole idea, Hopefully in the future we have a place where a lot of people gather that have the same beliefs as us, and a place where you can find anything to help you live a healthy, green, organic life!

So go to the "Community" link above, and start sharing!
You can make a change!

27-08-2009 | Posted by: Maruja Retana
Smile!
Tags: maruja | smile | laugh | science |

A well known song of Charlie Chaplin (very recently performed in a very moving way by Jermaine Jackson, at the memorial service of MJ) has the following passage: 'Smile! What's the use of crying? You'll find that life is still worthwhile,
if you just smile.'

Laughing is healthy, they say, but why? For many reasons, actually! Purely physical alone: When you smile/laugh (the louder, the better) your brain releases a chemical called endorphin. This is a natural painkiller and has a soothing effect, which lowers blood pressure. Laughing also strengthens your blood vessels as well as increases the blood flow, so it's very good for your heart! Furthermore, your immune system is strengthened during laughing. Your body produces so called natural killer cells. This type of cell is comparable to Mo of the movie Wall-E, it scans every cell and destroys the 'bad guys' like tumor cells. And, during a good laughing fit, antibodies are produced, that get rid of stress hormones. So laughing is seriously stress reducing! (In the clip below that fact is demonstrated in a very funny way :D)

Getting back to Charlie Chaplin, the good man was absolutely right. Even when you don't feel well, and smiling or laughing is the last thing you want to do, it helps when you just make yourself do it anyway. Slowly, but surely, you will actually start to feel better. You are kind of fooling your own body, but it really works! A fun detail (about which a could fill a whole other blog) is that it is not as easy to fol other people. A fake smile is usually easy to spot. Try doing the BBC-test to check how well your people insight is ;)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/science/humanbody/mind/surveys/smiles/
http://www.lyricsdownload.com/charlie-chaplin-smile-lyrics.h

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25-07-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Nutrition tips!
Tags: nutrition | junk food | tips | vegetables | calories |

Everybody wants to lose a pound sometime.
Just think about this:

It is not about how many calories you eat, it is about the quality of those calories!

Junk food ( even the "light" versions) are "empty" calories.
Your body doesn't know what to do with those calories, so those go straight to your butt, hips and thighs!!!
They pollute your body.
And it takes forever to try to take them off.

A banana, tomato or whole wheat bread or nutritious calories.
Your body knows what to do with them, and uses them for instance, to help your organs to function properly.

For those who want to know more about calories:

1 gram of fat is 9 calories.
1 gram of sugar is 4 calories
1 gram of protein is 4 calories
1 gram of carbohydrates is 4 calories

I never count calories. because counting calories is not going to help you lose weight permanently ( maybe for a short period)
Your body needs nutritious calories to function!

When you suddenly get a very low calorie intake (because you stop eating normally) your body shuts off internally and tries to survive.
When you start eating normally, your body suddenly wants to absorb every calorie possible!
This is called the "Jo-Jo effect".
You want to prevent this from happening.
When it has happened to you once, it is hard to stay away from jojo-ing.

So how do you lose weight healthily?

When I want to get in better shape, I eat more fresh food, like colored vegetables, brown rice, beans and brown bread( a little bit)

I stay away from canned or prepackaged food( with a long expiration date)

Frozen "fresh" food is ok!

Fruit has a lot of ( healthy sugar) so I don't eat them too much in this period. Sugar turns into fat in your body, even the healthy sugars! So just a bit of juice in morning, and an apple as a snack is good!

And of course I exercise one way or another at the same time!

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22-07-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Travel: Checklist
Tags: travel | checklist | visa | first aid |

If you are going to a nice destination for your holidays this year, there is a lot to not forget. What to bring? What to wear? How can I get my suitcase to close?

Here are a few tips, things you should check before you go.

- First of all: Do you need to get shots for the place you are going to? Better go to doctor first to do that.

-Do you need a passport? Or is a drivers license enough? Are they both still valid?

-Do you need a visa for the place you are going to? If Yes, apply on time.

-Do you have a travel insurance, or a cancellation insurance?

-Is your Credit Card or ATM card valid? Can you use it in the country you are going to? Is there a sufficient balance on the account? Are you gonna take cash?
What is the currency there?

-In Europe, if you use a car, you need to have certain things with you in the car in certain countries, like a first aid kit.and some countries you need a pass to drive on certain roads.
Check on: www.aaroadwatch.ie/euregulations/

-Bring a first aid kit with you with basic essentials like aspirin, your daily medication, bandaids, alcohol wipes, sun protection. maybe birth control like the Pil and/or condoms? And for girls: Bladder infection medication. ( I learned the hard way) Check your medication with your doctor if it is legal to bring to the country you travel to. Put it in your carry on so it is easy to get to.

-Make sure you don’t have dangerous things in your suitcase, especially when you travel with an airplane.

-Don’t pack to much, as you always bring more home. Make sure you don’t go over the weight that is allowed by your carrier. Check online with them.

-Don’t put your address and contact information on the outside of your bag,( but do it on the inside). “Bad guys” might see it and visit your house while you are gone. And that’s no fun!

-Make sure you print out all your travel information, and contacts for your hotel, and travel agent. Also leave one home for the folks that stay behind.

-Check hotel or travel agent before to see if everything is going as planned.

-Check the weather at the destination, and only pack for that. Do not bring things you already think you might not wear, as it is only extra weight for you to carry.

-Check all above with your travel mates ( family, partner, kids) to make sure they are prepared as well.

More important things:

-Charge your Ipod
-Charge your phone
-Bring converter plus all chargers.
-Bring enough to read
-Bring some healthy snacks, you never know where you end up being, you want to be prepared when getting hungry
-Always have a bottle of water in reach.
-Hand wipes come in easy to always.

Last thing:

Everything shut off at home? Gas? Lights?
Did you close door and windows properly?
Is someone gonna watch over your house while you are away? Does that person have an extra key?

If yes, Just start enjoying your vacation!

www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibi
upl.codeq.info/
www.independenttraveler.com/

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19-07-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Books To Read: "Food Is Your Best Medicine" by Henry G. Bieler, M.D.
Tags: books | nutrition | medicine |

I am reading now an pretty old book that a girl friend of mine gave to me. It was first published in 1965, but it is still very up to date! Doctor Henry Bieler describes in this book, his journey from being a doctor who prescribed medication to his patients, to a doctor who looks at a persons diet and making changes in that, to cure a disease. A time when he is not prescribing any medication to his patients anymore! I believe medication only cures the symptom, not the cause. Dr Bieler explains what happens to a body, and how to cure it without medication, as he found out by experience with his patients.

To be healthy and to live healthy, you need to eat healthy!

So check this book out!

http://www.amazon.com/Food-Your-Medicine-Henry-Bieler/dp/034

19-07-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Fight with Carrots?
Tags: environment | organization |

Just another proof of how powerful you are as a consumer. Last week I heard about a new initiative where consumers unite in a network, and together have companies compete against each other. The deal? The company that wants to make the most environment and social friendly changes to improve the world in his or her business wins. That company will be rewarded: The consumers will work together/go shopping in that business, and so the company makes a bigger profit!

So it goes 3 ways: better business: more money. Better world.

This initiative is called Carrot Mob.I knew carrots are healthy and a good choice as a snack, but now I know you can actually change the world with it!

Check it out!
www.carrotmob.org

12-07-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
My Favorite Snack: Avocado on bread!
Tags: food | cooking | snack | avocado |

When I get hungry, and need to eat something healthy fast, I make Avocado on Wasa Crackers or a slice of roasted multigrain bread.

It is so easy and tasty!

I got this idea a little bit from one of my favorite restaurants in NYC: Cafe Gitane. There they serve a slice of Multigrain bread, with a layer of mashed avocado, a bit of olive oil, and red pepper flakes ( see picture)

Cafe Gitane is not expensive, but fresh and oh so tasty. It is very small, and located on Mottstreet between Houston and Princestreet. If u are in that area, give it a try. They are open from 9am on.( also a model and celeb hang out if you really want to know!)

What do you need for this snack?

1 ripe avocado
2 slices of roasted multigrain bread, or wasa crackers.
salt
pepper
red pepper flakes.

How do you make it?

You open the avocado (watch video below) and with a fork you take out the avocado meat. Then you mash it onto the slice of bread. A bit of salt and pepper, and a few red pepper flakes.

And enjoy!

Avocado has a lot of healthy fats for your body. So a few times a week eating it, will benefit you in my opinion. It also gives you a satisfied feeling, and stills your hunger.
www.menupages.com/restaurants/cafe-gitane/
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avocado

21-06-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Model, size and Photoshop
Tags: modeling | bodyimage |

I spoke about it before, with Photoshop anything is possible! First people complain about the bodysculpting of women making them look more in shape/thinner, and now, it seems that the complaint is the opposite: magazines have to photoshop models to make them look healthier/fatter, as the clothes they shoot only fit superskinny girls with no hips or breasts. The editor of British Vogue, sent out a letter to established fashion houses to make them stop sending out size zero clothes. This is what i found online at www.telegraph.co.uk:

by Roya Nikkhah

Published: 10:00AM BST 14 Jun 2009

Miss Shulman accused designers of an "increasingly disturbing" practice of sending fashion magazines "minuscule" clothes for fashion shoots, which forced editors to hire models with "jutting bones and no breasts or hips".

Eleni Renton, a leading model agent who has pioneered the use of healthy-looking girls, said: "It is about time that somebody stood up to the designers, and it is hugely brave of Alexandra to come out and say there is a problem.

"I have had girls turn up to shoots and not be able to fit into the samples and these are model-size, slim women.

"It has become ridiculous and for too long, designers have been getting away with making clothes that are simply not designed for normal women."

Hilary Alexander, the Telegraph’s fashion director, said: “I totally support Alex and addressing this issue is long overdue.

“Her call now needs to be backed by all the other glossy magazine editors, who must join the chorus if they want to see a change within the fashion industry. One lone voice will not be enough.”

Emma Healey of Beat, the charity that supports people affected by eating disorders, said: "This is very welcome. The whole controversy over size zero models has been a wake up call.

"It is very encouraging to see Vogue taking a stance like this."

Miss Shulman said that clothes created by designers for the catwalk which were then sent to magazines for photoshoots had become "substantially smaller" and that Vogue was now having to "retouch" photographs "to make the models appear larger".

In a letter to fashion houses including Prada, Versace, Yves Saint Laurent and Chanel, Miss Shulman wrote: "We have now reached a point where many of the sample sizes don't comfortably fit even the established star models.

"Instead, we are having to use girls with jutting bones and no breasts or hips, to fit them."

She added: "I am finding that the feedback from my readers and the general feeling in the UK is that people don't really want to see such thin girls."

I also think clothes at shoots are small. And i hope they are gonna be bigger in the future. I mean, if they are too big then, you can always pin! It is not normal that most super healthy slim girls, are afraid that they won't fit into the clothes. And also, i think a healthy body shouldn't need to get digitally altered too much. ( maybe only a zit or a flaw here and there) I am curious to the outcome of this new Photoshop discussion.. to be continued!

26-05-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
www.RealAge.com
Tags: web | doctor | medicine | nutrition |

This website is made by 2 super smart Doctor's: Dr.Oz ( the famous doctor of the Oprah Show) and his best friend Dr Roizen. Both are seen as 2 of the best doctors of the USA. Together they started "RealAge", an organization and website, that has as a main goal, to inform people about how they can live the healthiest, and how they can prevent diseases. You can also calculate your Real Age, by answering a certain number of questions HONESTLY. Questions like: "Do you smoke?" and " how many times are you working out a week?". You can leave your email, and you will get once a while a few tips in your inbox, sometimes even tasty recipes or funny facts. It is a fun website of which you won't put the mails straight in the Junkmail folder. No instead, it should really go in your healthy mail! Dr.Oz and Dr.Roizen have also published a few books in the series: "YOU", like: "You, The Owner's Manual, YOU, On a Diet" and the recently published:" YOU, Being Beautiful" my favorite is: You, The Smart Patient, with tips of what to ask your doctor to get the best treatment. You can buy the books on their website, and also nutrition supplements, fitness Products and DVD's. So go check out your RealAge now, mine was 6 years younger than the age i really am, so i feel very happy now!

www.realage.com

05-05-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Love Your Body
Tags: bodyimage | modeling | lonneke |

I started as a model when I was 13 years old. I was 5’6. I liked modeling and was convinced I could make it, even if I wasn’t the “perfect model size” The following years I grew about 3 inches. I got hips. I lost “baby fat”. I changed from a girl into a woman.A lot of models these days look like grownups, but in fact most of them are very young still . Their bodies are in development. Their hips are not full grown, and sometimes they will even grow a few inches in height. Models are part of the 1 % of the population that have so-called “right looks and sizes” But everybody has problem areas, or are not so confident sometimes, even them!. And most pictures are photoshopped, which is great for the person in the picture because he/she will look better usually. But it can definitely blur your vision of what is real and not.Nobody is perfect. So do not try to achieve that, because it is quite impossible.I have-Believe it or not- times where i am worried and want to do that, but then i make myself wake up:" Lonneke, stop that and act normal" I will tell myself. I look at my body and see the plusses and minusses. In real life AND on photoshoots i try to accentuate the good parts, and disguise the things i don't like, by standing in the right poses, and wear the right clothes. I accept my body, so should you. Take care of it in the best possible way: drink enough water, work out regularly and eat healthy. Junkfood is really bad, just like soda drinks, and drugs, smoking and liquor. It not only gives you a greater chance of gaining weight or getting a deadly disease, no, even worse: You get wrinkles sooner! You are what you eat, So look at every bite if you can identify yourself with it. I think i am more like a juicy organic apple, or fresh orange juice, then french fries or a milkshake. Love your body. it is your vehicle every day. You do take good care of your car always, making sure it gets oil and a check up on time to make it work the best? Do the same with YOU. Love yourself, and your body will love you back!

loveyourbody.nowfoundation.org/
www.now.org/issues/health/loveyourbody_quiz.html