Organice Your Life®

Maybe you remember my blog from last week about the skin burn?

My sister (who is a doctor) saw my wound yesterday and got really angry with me! (I didn’t have it covered up and the crust was starting to peel off)

She said that if a burn is bigger than an old quarter coin (about 20mm) then you have to take extra care of it! And if it’s bigger than a 2 euro coin then you should go see a doctor! Well it was just slightly smaller than that!

My sister put some aloe vera burn relief gel on it and covered the wound with special burn bandage so it wouldn’t stick on the wound and it wouldn’t be infected. And she gave me a prescription for silversulfadiazine which is a disinfecting cream to prevent infections on open wounds like burns and to prevent scarring. And I should keep it covered up!

So therefore this update! DON’T BE A FOOL LIKE ME!

Check out burns properly! and if you have doubts?

GO SEE A DOCTOR!

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The day before yesterday I burnt myself during cooking.

I spilled some carrots next to my wok and tried to grab them, when reaching over I accidentally burnt myself to the pan and in reflex I pulled my hand UP (which was more towards the pan!!! Aahhhhh AUW!)

While being busy trying not to waste my meal I kind of finished with the start of the vegetables etc. Cleaned something up and THEN I started to cool my hand!

Dumbdumbdumb!

I should have stopped whatever I was doing and started to cool right away! Now it ended up hurting all the rest of the evening! I had icecubes on my hand all evening until I put a bandage on it, so I wouldn’t hurt or damage it during my sleep. Which was great! When I put the bandage on it was better instantly!

So now I have a big red spot on my hand and it still kind of hurts a little.

So but what should I have done? I looked it up and I didn’t do everything totally wrong, thank goodness:

During the process of providing first aid burn treatment, the aim must be to cool the burn, provide relief from pain, and cover the burn. Cover the burn with abundant amount of cold liquid. Do not use ice or iced water as the burn may take a longer time to heal. Dress the burn with a sterile pad or bandage. Applying oils, creams and sprays on the burn may add to the risk of infection.

OK so the icecubes weren’t a good idea! Oops! I absolutely didn’t know that! And thank goodness my boyfriend stopped me from smearing cream on it! The bandage was OK and it helped really well!

So all in all I cooled too much, too late but the rest was fortunately OK

Doing a first aid course might be something we should all do! So we all know how to treat our clumsy accidents as well as the really serious ones!

ezinearticles.com/?First-Aid-Burn-Treatment&id=251646

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The story of cosmetics!

Another inconvenient truth.

A skocking but important fact: the majority of beauty and skincare products we use are highly dangerous to our bodies and planet.

Tonight I had the privilege to attend a wonderful presentation about the hazards caused by unsupervised products and how the accumulation of their toxins can lead to some very unhappy endings.

Check it out as it is - funny, WiCkEd yet dead-serious.

Do yourself and your friends a favor, pass it along! Create a buzz and use your consumer voting power to make a difference - Buy OrGaNiC. Don't think twice.

* Check out the teaser below but then watch the full version by following the first link (it's only a few minutes longer but worth every second!)

Yes, as members of the fashion industry, Lonneke, myself and fellow OYL bloggers will start making a difference in this sector.

Just wait and see ;)

storyofstuff.org/cosmetics
www.storyofstuff.org
safecosmetics.org

Today is Mandela day!

At the London celebrations of Nelson Mandela’s 90th birthday at Hyde park in June 2008, Mandela said: : “It is time for the next generations to continue our struggle against social injustice and for the rights of humanity. It is in your hands.”

After this it was decided to celebrate his birthday every year with a day dedicated to his life’s work to ensure that his legacy continues forever.

So what is Mandela day?

Mandela Day is an annual celebration of Nelson Mandela’s life and a global call to action for people to recognize their individual ability to make an imprint and change the world around them.
Mandela Day has been created to inspire people from every cor ner of the world to embrace the values that have embodied Nelson Mandela’s life – democracy; equality; reconciliation; diversity; responsibility; respect and freedom – for these are the values of Nelson Mandela and they are his legacy to the world.
Mandela Day aims to showcase the work of the Nelson Mandela charitable organisations (Nelson Mandela Foundation; Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund; Mandela Rhodes Foundation) and raise monies to support their continuing work.
By connecting people with ways to act on Nelson Mandela’s values, it aims to empower every individual to make an imprint on the world.
The Mandela Day campaign message is simple: Nelson Mandela has given 67 years of his life fighting for the rights of humanity. All they are asking is that everyone gives 67 minutes of their time, whether it’s supporting your chosen charity or serving your local community.
Mandela Day is a global social movement – an umbrella idea – that does not discriminate, it’s open and lets in and embraces every organization that does good, whilst enabling people to serve their community and improve their lives.
The Mandela Day brand icon represents Mr Mandela’s hand and the passing of the torch to each of us and our individual ability to make an imprint on the world.
Mandela Day is not a holiday – it is a day for all of us to opt in and show that we can all make an impact.

(source)

I think Mandela is such an inspirational person!

Sometimes I feel: how can we change? How can I make a change? And whenever I think of Mandela, I think WOW! He really did it! He made such a big change, not only for himself, but for the entire world!

Hopefully people will continue feeling inspired by him and really pick up the torch from him and try to make an imprint on the world!

I‘ve put 67 ways to change your world on the forum, so everyday can be a Mandela day!

It really is in your hands!

www.mandeladay.com
www.nelsonmandela.org/mandeladay/67_ways.html

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This is the time of year when you can get "bugged" by those nasty little mosquitos. Especially when you try to sleep and one of them is zooming around your ears, trying to find a nice piece of skin to land on, and suck the juicy blood out of it.

No more!

I found this amazing anti-bug balm, by Badger. It smells nice, with ciitronella. It also feeds dry skin, and it is without Deet, commonly used in insect repellents. But best of all: It is ORGANIC! USDA-approved.

I used it when I was on location in Africa. It really worked. I put it on also because it is very soft and smells great.

Badger has great other products too!

hwww.badgerbalm.com/pc-21-2-anti-bug-balm.aspx

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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

Two months ago I wrote about a great site that allows you to see whether certain ingredients in your favorite skin care products are carcinogenic. The site is called Skin Deep.

I was so impressed by their concept that I decided to become a member of the umbrella organization called Environmental Working Group.

Today, I received a number of tips to help protect yourself against environmental toxins.

Exposure to certain environmental toxins, over time, can lead to cancer. It is an under-unrecognized but very real threat. Below are a few tips from the EWG to help protect yourself against these various (daily) toxins:

1. Filter your tap water: common carcinogens include arsenic, chromium and chemical byproducts.

2. Seal outdoor wooden decks and play sets: some are coated with an arsenic pesticide.

3. Cut down on stain- and grease-proofing chemicals: "Fluorochemicals" related to Teflon are dangerous to your health.

4. Stay safe in the sun: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is cancer-causing. Seek shade, wear protective clothing and use safe and effective sunscreen (visit EWG's sunscreen database)

5. Cut down on fatty meat and high-fat dairy products: Dioxins and PCBs accumulate in animal fat.

6. Eat EWG's Clean 15: Many pesticides have been linked to cancer. Lonneke wrote a great piece about the least contaminated fruits and vegetables (See OYL post: "Dirty Dozen")

7. Cut your exposure to BPA: a synthetic estrogen found in hard plastic water bottles.

8. Avoid carcinogens in cosmetics: use EWG's Skin Deep cosmetic database to find out which products are harmful and which ones are safe!

9. Read the warnings: Some products actually list warnings of cancer risks - Read the label before you buy :)

10. Want to do more? Sign EWG's petition demanding congress reform the nations broken toxic chemicals policy.

These days you cannot even get through security at airports with a bottle of water. We all know that! But how annoying is that? Flying is one of the biggest things in drying out your skin! You NEED to drink a lot of water... But to bother the flight attendant the whole flight is not so nice either... And all the plastic cups you waste! I see airlines recycling those cups more and more, Like Continental's Eco Skies plan, where they try to collect and recycle all the metal and plastic cups on board. Great idea!

But what I saw a woman do, sitting in 8C on this flight from Amsterdam to NYC, was something I just always forgot to do! She brought on board a reusable bottle filled with water, that she filled up after the security check!

Smart! You can bring an empty bottle on board, and ask a flight attendant to fill it up. This way you have water to drink whenever you need it! Sometimes you can fill it up before the flight with a tap in the bathroom, but some countries the water is not so clean ( In the Netherlands the water from the tap is suitable to drink).

So now I am going to bring my reusable bottle with me on every flight!

There are many good brands, like Sigg, Klean Kanteen and Natura.

The Klean Kanteen one has a wide mouth, so it is easy to drink from it.

I have one from Natura Water and Sigg that I love! Remember last December's Pura Vida party? we gave out free reusable bottles to create awareness around all the plastic waste we have! You can find pictures in the OYL picture section above.

By the way, it's the silver one from Natura for the people who are going to look for it ;) Also, they now have a competition to win one, so go to the site and sign up!

Since I know this trick, I eat much more fruit!

I love grapefruit and oranges, but I did not like to peel it, nor did I like the skin that would be left on the meat.

So I learnt how to seperate the segments of an orange!

How?

See below chef Andrew Zimmern from the CookingClub.com show you exactly how to take segments out of an orange!

Just be very careful! ( It is a knife you are holding)

Trust me it tastes so much better without the skin, and it makes you look like a good chef if you know how to do it!

My friend Maruja showed it to me first and I thought she was SO skilled back then, haha!

www.cookingclub.com

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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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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26-05-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
UV Natural Sun protection
Tags: uv | natural | sunscreen |

I am on vacation on Ibiza and I love it! I will write a summary blog once I am home, as it is too much to tell you!

But one thing I discovered while being here, and that matches the last blogs posted, is this new sunscreen that I discovered in NYC.

It is called UV Natural and it says it is "the future of sun protection". I use it because it has "nature's finest oils" in it, and leaves your skin soft and a bit oily, not like some of the other sunscreens. It is also preservative free, and no added fragrance. SPF 15 you have to apply a few times during the day, and I don't think it is waterproof, but it kept my skin from burning, and I actually got a nice little color!

www.uvnatural.com
www.uvnaturalsunscreenstore.com

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24-05-2010 | Posted by: Irene Dirks
Sunscreen
Tags: sunscreen | uva | uvb | protection | filters | irene |

OK if you read my last blog, then next step is…

wear sunscreen!

Sunlight contains two types of UV rays: UVA and UVB

B is the good kind which you want lots and lots of, because it helps you create Vitamin-D. And A is the bad kind because it penetrates your skin and can create skin damage, aging and could even result in skincancer!

So a good protection is vital!

There are two types of filters used in sunscreen: Mineral or chemical filters.

Mineral filters create a reflective layer on your skin with Zinc-oxide or Titanium-dioxide particles. It reflects the sunlight to not reach the skin. Benefit of this is that in high concentrations they can block the sunlight totally, it is not absorbed by the skin and therefore has less chance of creating allergic reactions and are photostable. (it works all day without loss of protection) Less positive is that they leave a white layer on your skin, they are thicker, greasier and harder to smear. Also they can block your pores. So this type of sunblock is less appropriate for dark skintypes and greasy or break-out skin types.

A chemical filter works quite differently. It penetrates the skin and there absorbs the UV rays. It doesn’t create a white layer on your skin and can be used in lighter creams, sprays or oils. That’s why they are a better option for greasier skin types and are often used in daycreams. Less positive is that they usually don’t block all UVA rays and most of them are not photostable, so re-applying is a must!

When I go on a beach vacation I make sure I use the mineral type of filter at least at the start of the vacation. I think it is easy because you only have to apply once, and you are sure you are protected all day long. But creating a nice tan, using this one, doesn’t work that well for me. So usually after a few days I switch to a different one when I feel that my skin has had time to adjust to the sunlight. But then I really have to be careful not to get sunburnt!

Most sunscreens have both types of filters at the same time. Just check the label or ingredients so you are sure you know which type of filter you are using.

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22-05-2010 | Posted by: Valentina Zelyaeva
Capoeira
Tags: capoeira | work out | valentina |

You probably asking yourself: What on Earth is capoeira (pronounce as kah-puh-ei-rah)? It's sounds similar to caipirinha - although capoeira has nothing to do with the drink but both of them came from Brazil.

Capoeira is a fun work out that combines music, fight, dance, flips, jumps, kicks and specific movements. Sounds complicated but it's actually not!

When 3 years ago, friend of my invited me to capoeira class, I didn't want to look ridiculous in front of the other advanced students, but I was too curious to know capoeira. So I went!

At the beginning of the class we did warm up for 20 minutes and after we start doing all those movements - ginga, armada, au, meia lua de frente etc. I was awkward at the beginning but as everyone do, I catch up later and totally loved it.

Now, I own my belt #4. I wish I could do capoeira more often, but I miss too many classes due traveling.

If you want to try capoeira, visit the website for more info (below). It's fun but still a work out, all your muscles will be involved (that's why I love it!). So, be ready to be sore after your first class. But trust me, it is worth it!

love, Val

capoeiranagonyc.com

When you change your diet towards healthier choice, you stock up your fridge with organic, whole food products, natural and unprocessed products. But what about your bathroom?

Take a look at your shower shelves and what's behind your mirror. Let's talk about bathroom make over!

Did you know that everything you put on your skin goes into your bloodstream? Soaps, lotions, body creams, shampoo, gels - if it's not natural or organic - they are fully packed with chemicals and preservatives.

I was very happy to find out about Dr. Bronner's Magic Soap. Made with only 8 ingredients (commercial shower gels got at least 20 unreadable ingredients). Dr. Bronner's Soap is pure organic essential oils! Not only this, but also the company labeled as Fair-trade and No Animal Testing.

On the label says "18-in-1" which means you can find other 18 or even more ways to use this natural soap: for every day body washing, laundry, house cleaning, for plants to keep the bugs way etc (for more info check the website).

The company also makes shaving gels, baby skin care, lip balms and lotions. My personal favorite is Eucalyptus Liquid Body Soap, and for summer days I prefer the one with refreshing Peppermint fragrance.

love, Val

drbronner.com

As I believe you can't do everything at once, can't be all perfect at once, I do everything step by step.

Right now, I am looking into ways to filter tap water at home, so I can kick my plastic habit!

There are many different ways to do so... Some products filter better than others. Well known brands that help you get cleaner water from your tap, are Brita, Natura Water,Aquasana and Watts.

What I think I want is a seperate tap next to the kitchen sink, where the filtration system is attached to. That way I never have to bring big plastic gallon bottles to my apartment!

And that is saving energy, creating less waste and plastic.

Not to mention the better taste, maybe even better than the expensive bottled water brands out there!

Also, I want to attach one to my shower head, as the heavy metals, and chlorine in the water is not good for my skin, nor for the color of my hair.

Do you have any great filtration systems you think I should look at? Please leave your ideas in the Community link below.

Thanks in advance!

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My favorite new discovery is Intelligent Nutrients. Skincare, Haircare and Aromatherapy!

When I was at ABC Carpet in NYC, a magical place where they sell a lot of beautiful and organic things for yourself and your home, I found a rack with great products from this brand.

I spoke to the manager, Marisa Gubert, and was intrigued with this brand.

Why?

The packaging is very simple and beautiful. On the packaging it tells you about what Intelligent Nutrients stands for. Which is pure, organic, ethical, cruelty free, organic products, in recyclable packaging, and good for you.

Founded by Horst M. Rechelbacher,this brand focusses on plants and aromatherapy, with the goal of creating sound nutritional products for both a healthier personal ecosystem and a healthier planet.

Horst also started the Aveda company years ago before he sold it to Estee Lauder.

More information I found on his site:

"Horst was voted one of the most notable Austrians living in America by the Austrian press, along with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Wolfgang Puck. Vanity Fair magazine voted Horst as one of the most influential environmentalists in the U.S. in 1995 and again in 2005. Horst is one of the three original founders of Business for Social Responsibility, which promotes the idea that businesses have the greatest responsibility and opportunity to provide sustainability to all living species. In 2004, he became a founding member of the Organic Center for Education, Research and Promotion, and the beauty industry awarded him the Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2007, the International Congress of Esthetics and Spa presented Horst with the Crystal Award, and he received the Rachel Carson Award for a Lifetime Commitment to Environmental Ethics & Integrity. Later that year, the Spa & Salon Professional Association Incorporated honored him as an Industry Innovator & Legend for his lifetime contribution to the cosmetology industry."

IN only uses food grade oils for their products. I love their aromatics, a series of 7 different ones, especially the one called "Focus". I also really like their certified organic lip delivery nutrition. Focus is a great spray I put on when I board a flight, or need to be "focussed". And I am so happy I finally found a lip balm that really works. It is expensive, but certainly not the most expensive on the market.

IN also has haircare products, nutraceutical supplements, and functional foods. Check the website for more information on all products.

But that's not all!

Right now I am reading the book Horst wrote:

"Minding your own Business"

It is an easy read and gives a great insight in the leadership of Horst M. Rechelbacher, of one of the most innovative skincare companies in the world! He gives tips and advice how we all can make this world a better place, including offering good products that respect people, nature and animals, which in his opinion, is the only way we can guarantee a safe future of Planet Earth.

I AGREE!

Intelligent Nutrients and Horst M. Rechelbacher:

I am a big fan!

www.intelligentnutrients.com

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Every year I look forward to it:

White Asparagus Time!

Just for a few weeks in Spring, you can buy these asparagus, that we in the Netherlands call "White Gold". All over the country you see seasonal workers work from dawn till dusk to get the asparagus out of the ground. In America, just like in a lot of countries, the green version is most populair, but I go for the white ones, especially when I bought them fresh from the farmer.

I like them a lot just cooked, with a hard boiled (organic) egg. Or how my Mother in Law makes them: she cleans the asparagus. Then she takes of the skin and cooks the asparagus AND the skin together, and the juice that is left after cooking, she uses to make a tasty sauce. She throws away the skins, and chops up some asparagus. Then she adds some flour ( to thicken the sauce) butter,pepper, salt, seasoning and stirs it alltogether in a pan. She puts about 7 of the other asparagus on every plate, and adds the sauce. Served with potatoes in skin with rosemary and salt, and a fresh salad, it is a delicious (and nutritious) meal!

The only bad part of any kind of asparagus, is that from the moment you ate them, you go to the bathroom and everything smells stronger..... Some even have to fart more more bowel movement.

I don't care I am going to eat it anyway as they are so delicous I can't take it!

Below are links to more asparagus recipes!

www.grouprecipes.com/s/white-asparagus/recipe/1/relevancy

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02-05-2010 | Posted by: Anne-Marie Van Dijk
Skin Deep
Tags: skin | deep | cosmetics | ingredients | sustainable | health |

Bookmark this website everyone!

It takes a little time to orientate yourself on the site but once you get the hang of it, boy is it a good concept!

Skin Deep lists and analyzes many beauty and skincare products and companies based on their ingredients and therefore level of health hazard.

I looked up several products & companies already, such as Weleda, Dr. Hauschka and Aveda, compared to lesser holistic ones such as l'Oreal and Maybelline. It's interesting to see how some products you think might be quite natural aren't and how others you think are disastrous are actually quite skin and earth-friendly.

Not all products are listed but since I think Skin Deep is such a great concept maybe one way we can help them out is by sending them an email when a favorite product is missing.

That way, Skin Deep can keep on expanding its database while we, as reviewers, get the heart-of-the-matter inside scoop ;)

www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/

27-04-2010 | Posted by: Anne-Marie Van Dijk
REN Clean Skincare
Tags: clean | skincare | bio | natural | ren |

I was on a shoot the other day and the production team was kind enough to hand all models a beautiful welcome package which included products by a company called REN Clean Skincare.

Intrigued - and never having heard of the name before - I decided to do some research and look up some of the ingredients.

Very important OYL fans!

First - ALWAYS check the ingredients list. It is very common for companies to practice something called "greenwashing" these days. This means that companies will use labels such as "green" "all-natural" and "organic" to mislead you and make you think that their products have 100% integrity.

It couldn't be further from the truth. "Natural" these days is one of the most misleading labels. And when it comes to organic, look for a certifying label such as USDA or Ecocert. These will reassure you that the product you are holding in your hands meets 100% of the requirements.

Coming back to REN, I was astonished to find that all of their ingredients come from natural sources (and I mean natural, such as flower extracts, coconut oil, essential oils etc.), their packaging is made from 100% recycled fibre and their ink is 100% vegetable.

Pretty impressive.

Now, when surfing their site (they have quite some amazing products) nowhere do I see the word "organic". Hmmm..... well, at least they are being honest.

What I do come across though is the following list:

NO petrochemicals, sulfates, parabens, synthetic fragrance, synthetic colours, T.E.A., D.E.A., glycols, silicones, PEGs et AL

NO animal testing

....

So, minus the missing "organic" I am very much impressed by REN. Next up, to actually TRY their products!
www.renskincare.com

26-04-2010 | Posted by: Anne-Marie Van Dijk
ABC - the place to BE
Tags: abc | home | carpet | apothecary | eco |

If you are a fellow New Yorker you are bound to know the iconic warehouse ABC Home & Carpet.

I was in there today and it reminded me how much I love it. Aside from their gorgeous timeless antiques, their impeccable sense of style, their mesmerizing decor and design and their love for sustainability and "eco-business", ABC is a store of wonders - a gem - for many of us in New York City.

Not all of what you find at ABC is eco or sustainable - However, ABC has a great sense of ethics (and aesthetics!) and it is precisely this that sets them apart from most other retailers.

Let me give you a perfect example: The ABC apothecary.

Simply Amazing!

When you walk into the store, on the ground floor (need I say there are 6 floors total and a basement?) you come across a quaint little area dedicated solely to all-natural, certified organic, innovative skincare & beauty products, aromatherapy and soy candles and incense.

They represent brands such as Red Flower, Juara, Hamadi, Ama-La and Intelligent Nutrients.

Although I was unfamiliar with some of these brands, simply the fact that they are represented by ABC tells me they hold up to their eco-engagement.

Moving on forward you hit their Elixir Cafe and restaurant which carries mostly organic, local produce and the most delicious green juice I have ever had!

Although most of us can't afford the typical ABC piece of furniture, they are a true source of inspiration and an oasis of magical wonder.

If you ever head to New York, make sure to list ABC as one of your must see exhibits.

www.abchome.com
www.abchomeandplanet.org

21-04-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Go outside! It's beautiful!
Tags: run | walk | nyc | hudson | mental |

I just went for my first run outside in months. I know I could have gone earlier, as the weather in NYC has been pretty good, but now I finally did!

And without me knowing it, I ran and walked for over 1 hour and 15 minutes! Listening to Michael Jackson, and enjoying the beautiful Hudson River park, I felt really good! Being active outside is also good for me mentally. I could clear my head, and think about things.

The rest of the day I feel also great, and you know what? Breaking a sweat is also good for your skin, your pores open up and dirt gets out. So I felt super clean!

So I am going to do this every day from now on, enjoy the beautiful weather, and get in shape as well!

There is a great site where you can measure how far your have walked, or run. Check it out below!
www.mapmyrun.com

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

15-04-2010 | Posted by: Anne-Marie Van Dijk
Starbucked?
Tags: strabucks | saving | trees | reusable | mug |

Check out this video - On April 15, Starbucks is asking customers to swap their paper cup for a reusable mug.

At first glance I must say this sounds pretty great.

Their slogan: "One person can save trees, together we can save forests"

Fantastic!

However, one thing keeps nagging me. What I truly don't understand is the fact that Starbucks has never made a real effort to place recycling bins in their stores. The great cardboard sleeves that protect your hands from the delicious hot content of your paper cup are thrown away nonchalantly - such a waste! Imagine recycling those and the number of trees we could save in the process! We might end up saving several acres of the Amazon rainforest :)

Just a thought and with this being said, I did do some further research and am happy to inform you that Starbucks IS taking this into account and intends to launch their first official recycling program by 2015:

"By 2015 we plan to have recycling available in all of our stores where we control waste collection and serve 25% of beverages in reusable cups."

It's a good start and a relief. So to celebrate (and make a statement) should we take our reusable mugs to Starbucks on this special day?

Let me know what your thoughts are!

www.starbucks.com/thebigpicture#/home

11-04-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Water from the Dead Sea
Tags: dead | sea | water | salt |

Eyal brought me and Annemarie each a bottle of water from the Dead Sea home from his trip to Israel. Sweet!

He cleaned out an Estee Lauder bottle, and poured the water in.

He says it works as a miracle healing water, when you put it on cuts etc ( probably hurts because of the salt, haven't tried it yet)
And he told us DO NOT PUT IT NEAR YOUR EYES!

It is so saturated with salt that you will probably feel it for days.... He made me a bit scared of it, but also curious if it works. It feels like oil when I put it on my skin. So weird!

I am going to try to see if it works!

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

06-04-2010 | Posted by: Eyal Amir
The Dead Sea!
Tags: dead | sea | travel |

Revive your Body and Soul!

But what is the "Dead Sea"??

It is the lowest elevation on the surface on earth, on dry land.
It is sooo hot!! (don’t forget your hat and sun screen).
It is also one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world .(you wouldn’t drink this water – even if you forgot your reusable bottle back home…) and there are no signs of any living organisms in this sea or around it (except for some spa resorts and few hotels).

So why would you want to go there???

Not only because of the beautiful views (the unique texture of the land makes it look like the moon!!!!), the peaceful dessert vibes, and the fact that you can read your favorite magazine and drink your morning juice while floating on water (the unique texture of the water allow our bodies to float on top of the water with no effort!!!).

You want to go there also because of the mineral content of the water, the very low content of pollens and other allergens in the atmosphere, the reduced ultraviolet component of solar radiation and the higher atmospheric pressure at this great depth each have specific health effect!!.
People from all over the world go there in order to cure skin diseases or just for natural cleansing...

How would you get there?

A taxi from Ben Gurion Airport (Israel's national Airport) will take you to the Dead Sea spa resorts in little longer than one hour drive and it shouldn’t cost you more then $50 (one way).

Let me know when you are going…I want to go again ;)

Eyal.

/en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dead_Sea

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

Last week I asked on the forum if anyone knew a good handcream.
Since the cold this winter, I’ve had the worst dry hands ever!!
And nothing seemed to work.
My hands would itch all the time, and sometimes started to bleed too!!

Tajna was so nice to give me a good tip.
She recommended Sheabutter, and to put a lot on my hands before going to bed.
(Thanks Tajna!)

I decided to search for sheabutter in the bodyshop.
(I figured they must have it, since they have so many bodybutters, seemed logical to me)
And I was right they had a whole line of sheabutter products.
They had bodybutter, douchelotion, bodyscrub etc.etc.

So many choices so I decided to ask for some advice in the store what to take.
And there the girl gave me an even better tip!
Hemp Hand Protector!
For extremely dry skin.
She also advised me to buy these bio-cotton gloves so I could put a nice thick layer on my hands before going to bed.
(That seemed familiar to the tip from the forum!)
So I bought the cream and the gloves and tried it last night.
My boyfriend made so much fun of me wearing my white gloves, hahaha!
But I didn’t care because I was sure it was going to work.
And this morning the result was indeed a lot of improvement!
So happy about that!!
Tonight again! And tomorrow, the day after that, and then, and then…
Until my hands are supersoft!
oh can’t wait!

www.thebodyshop.com/_en/_ww/catalog/list.aspx?ParentCatCode=

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

Today I heard from a colleague about an action of Greenpeace
They are trying to move Nestlé to stop buying palm oil from manufacturers that destroy rainforest in Indonesia.
This is very threatening for the livelihoods of the local people and push Orangutans towards EXTINCTION!

After the first actions, where they asked people to send letters to Nestlé asking them to stop using palm oil from Sinar Mas (the manufacturer), there has been quite some success!
The promovideo has been watched 100.000 times and the mails send 10.000’s of times.
That same day Nestlé announced to break all contact with Sinar Mas!
That’s GREAT! (Very surprising to me, Nestlé is definitely not fair trade and doesn’t seem to have plans to become it, but hopefully that’s changing now)
But it’s only a first step.
They still use the same palm oil by buying it from other traders.
To save the Orangutans and the rainforest there is more to be done!

So if you agree, please go to their website and support this Greenpeace action.

(Be careful watching this video, it made me gross out totally and is not suitable for small children!!!)

www.greenpeace.org/kitkat

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

This week I went to a sauna.
I've been very busy lately, and was very tired.
That's why I thought it was time to relax!!!
Sauna always gives me such a feeling of wellness.
I love to dip in the bubblebaths or swimmingpools, or warm up in the steamroom or calendarium.
But what I like most is just the "regular" sauna (no infrared, music or colours)
And it's also really good for you!

During a saunabath your temerature raises up to 39 °C /102 °F.
Your body responces to that by sweating.
Purpose of the sweating is to cool down the bodytemperature again, by transporting the heat out of you.
This has several positive results:
Because of the heat followed by the cool baths afterwards, the muscles relax, the bloodpressure loweres, and the bloodcirculation, digestion and respiration improve.
Sauna is also good for your skin and slows down the aging process.
During the heat the bloodvessels enlarge and improve bloodcirculation.
After cooling, the vessels become smaller again, which sort of train them.
and it also improves the structure of very dry skin (by soaking in the water and activation of the sweatcells).

So don't wait untill you go on your next holiday to a luxury Spa hotel, but take a sauna in any day-Spa nearby sometimes
YOU'LL LOVE IT!!!

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: Lonneke Engel
Micam, the Shoe Event, Milano
Tags: micam | shoes | vic matie | timberland | united nude |

Twice a year you can find a big event happening at the Fieramilano, the Micam fair!

A shoelovers heaven, this fair brings shoe retailers, shoe agents and shoe producers together. Shoe producers show their collection for the next season, shoe agents just look at what trend is happening next season, and shoe retailers buy their next collection.

There seems to be thousands and thousands of stands! Some with nice shoes, some with shoes for your grandma, but lots of them!

As I have the perfect sample size feet, size 37 ( I really have size 38 but for this occasion I have size 37!) I went there to help my boyfriend Bas pick out his new collection. It is really fun, as I chose some shoes and tried them on. I tried on many, many shoes! After a few days walking by all the stands, my feet were sore, my back ached, but it was so worth it!

I chose one pair I need to have ( from Vic Matie) And I tried to persuade my boyfriend to buy eco friendly and sustainable shoebrand's collections, but he was right: Most of those brands have not succeeded in making fashionable looking shoes. Most of them are still a bit alternative to put it mildly. I hope this will change in the future! And the more we support these brands, the more they will succeed and more brands will become organic, sustainable or even vegan!

But an exception is Timberland. They are starting to incorporate more sustainable practices within their production, and start using more recycled rubber made from tires. The collection in which they do that is called: Earthkeepers. As one of the new trends next season is baggy jeans, or skinny jeans in high boots with laces, I think it is a nice brand to focus on!

A collection I loved was from United Nude,designed together with dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, but they were at the International Visitor's stand, and they make a lot of plastic shoes. For vegans a really nice option. I will write more about this brand in the future.

New trends I saw for Fall-Winter 2010-2011, were: The studs are still here, maybe even shoes with chains, ankle boots with laces with or without heels, a bit of cowboy inspired boots, "boyfriend" boots with laces, suede,colors are grey, black, blue, beige. Wedges and over-the-knee boots. Also I saw shoes that had leather that had studs that looked like (under the skin) studs.

I am excited for next season!
www.micam.com
www.unitednude.com
www.timberland.com

25-02-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
H&M skincare going Organic
Tags: h&m | skincare | organic |

The new skincare line by H&M is going to be made with organic ingredients. Certified by European organization Ecocert, the skincare products will not be very expensive, but affordable for everyone!

You can read the press release below.

That's very good news: bringing organic options so everyone can buy them!

Available from March 2010 on.

www.hm.com/us/press/pressreleases/fashion/fashionpressreleas

24-02-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Josie Maran Cosmetics
Tags: josie | maran | cosmetics | makeup | lipgloss |

Supermodel Josie Maran, who has been working for Maybelline for many years, has her own makeup line!

Josie Maran Cosmetics is an organic (yes!) brand, and I know first hand, that Josie has been working on it herself intensively. The result? A line with nice products, and beautiful colors. All eco-friendly packaged in recyclable packaging.

Josie loves Argan oil, oil from the Argan tree grown organically in Morocco, and you can find it in many popular products in her line. Argan Oil supposedly is great for flawless skin and hair. A new product in the line is the Argan Primer Mist, which primes the skin before makeup application. It's special because it's a mist and normally primers are creams. With a spray you can evenly spread the primer over the face, great idea!

I just tried the plumping lipgloss in the shade: "daring" And I love it!

You can buy Josie Maran Cosmetics at Sephora, amongst other places in the USA.

As Josie says:" Luxury with a conscience"
www.josiemarancosmetics.com
www.sephora.com/browse/brand_hierarchy.jhtml?brandId=Josie+M

21-02-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Getting rid of your cold
Tags: cold | oregano | oil | antiviral | steam |

It feels like winter is ending doesn't it?

Yesterday I even had lunch on a terrace in New York City believe ot or not! ( I did wear a thick coat of course).

But a lot of people are still fighting colds, just like me.
What do I do to fight it?

First of all, I try to get as much sleep as possible. Your body is a genious machine which can heal itself quite well, if you give it a chance. And while sleeping your body is doing that. And luckily: I love sleeping!

Another tip someone gave me, is to put a drop of pure oregano oil in a big glass of water and drink it. Be careful it is SO strong more than one drop is too much! Also putting it undiluted in your mouth is not a good idea, you will feel it burn for a week! But supposedly oregano oil is antiviral,and is a natural medicine that can kill many germs, bacteria and other bad stuff. So if you have a sore throat, or a running nose, this helps!

Another tip: boil water and pour it in a big bowl. hang your face above it with a kitchen towel covering your head.Maybe add a drop of essentials oils. or what I do is a herbal tea bag. This way you steam, and that's also good for your skin! And with a teabag in it, you could even drink it afterwards, haha!

Make sure you wash your hands enough during this time, and drink a lot of water or tea to stay hydrated. Try to eat perfect, and eliminate dairy products and other foods/drinks that trigger your body ( think coffee, sweets, fast food).

Good luck with feeling better!
www.ehow.com/how_2054894_get-rid-cold.html
www.homeremediesweb.com/oil_of_oregano_health_benefits.php

29-01-2010 | Posted by: Nancy Bommel
Delicious Chocolat!
Tags:

Finally, all of the holiday sweets are out of the house... just in time for another bundle on Valentine's day! Well, this year, why not treat your body to delicious, Fair Trade cocoa butter products instead? You get that wonderful chocolatey smell, super soft skin, and that nice warm feeling knowing that these products make a difference in the lives of cocoa farmers and their families. And, because they're USDA Certified Organic, they are actually good for you! Treat yourself and your sweetie to some "chocolate" this year!

Cocoa Butter, in addition to being the basis for both milk and white chocolate, has been used for centuries to nourish and protect all skin types. It stays solid at room temperature but melts easily on to the skin, releasing a subtle dark-chocolate scent. Cocoa butter helps the body to retain its own natural moisture while creating a barrier between the skin and the elements. Most commonly it is used to prevent stretch marks, but it is also highly recommended for extremely dry skin conditions to keep skin supple, moisturized and revitalized.

Recent research suggests that massaging the skin with cocoa butter can boost the body's immune system while also alleviating stress. This is because cocoa mass polyphenol (CMP) is present in cocoa butter in large quantities.
Cocoa butter also contains antioxidants, as well as being naturally rich in Vitamin E and other vitamins and minerals. Unlike "added" Vitamin E, which generally contains only one tocopherol (and in many cases can be synthetic), naturally occurring Vitamin E contains all tocopherols, which makes it more bio-available and useful to the body.
Time to check out Badger’s Body Care!

badger.com

26-01-2010 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Giovanni Detox Scrub!
Tags: giovanni | cosmetics | detox | d-tox |

My favorite new thing must be the new line of Giovanni cosmetics:

Giovani D-tox system™

And especially the D-tox purifying scrub. It is totally deep black, and contains volcanic ash, activated charcoal and superantioxidants Goji berry and acai.

When you put a bit on your hands, and then massage onto your body, it becomes warm. The vulcanic ash must be still hot! It is an amazing feeling and makes your skin feel so soft!
www.giovannicosmetics.com/dtox_system.php

12-12-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Tips for when it gets colder!
Tags: cold | clothing | tips | yourself |

The time is there again to wear ear warmers, thick coats and woolen socks.

Here are some tips how to dress yourself to stay warm!

-Never go outside with wet hair!

-always wear a hat; your head loses most warmth compared to other parts of your body, so keep it warm.

-Layering: don't wear one big sweater, but wear layers of clothes and on top a nice warm vest. Layering keeps you warmer, because in between those layers air gets trapped, that your body heats up.

-For the girls: wear thights under your jeans or pants, because that also keeps you warmer ( guys can do it too if they want but I am not sure if it is comfortable for them!)

-Fleece is very warm, and sometimes even windproof. Als make sure your coat is wind and waterproof, because that will save you a lot of trouble in case it suddenly starts raining. ( and that does happen!)

-Silk, satin and synthetic fabrics usually "feel" colder on your skin, and therefore your body has to do more work to heat it up. Wool, fleece and cashmere do that job easier.

-Also when you step outside: don't forget your gloves, scarf and ear warmers!

01-12-2009 | Posted by: Anne-Marie Van Dijk
John Masters Organics
Tags: john | masters | organic | beauty | salon |

If living in New York, nothing is more inspiring and refreshing than going to a beauty/hair salon where the Earth meets all her rights.

This is the vision of John Masters, a pioneer in the city of New York when it comes to creating a hair salon with more than what just meets the eye.

"We only get one body, and we only get one planet."

His personal - strict- product guideline:

1. No sodium lauryl sulfate, parabens, DEAs, MEAs, or TEAs
2. No GMOs (Genetically Modified Organism)
3. No petro-chemicals
4. No animal testing
5. No artificial colors, fragrances or fillers
6. Ingredients must be as organic as possible
7. All plant extracts and essential oils must be certified organic whenever possible
8. All essential oils used must be steam-distilled and not extracted with propylene glycol - which kills the effect of the oils
9. All plant oils must be cold pressed, not heat distilled - which kills the therapeutic properties of plant oils
10. All ingredients must be proven to be beneficial to the hair or skin
11. All ingredients must be harvested in an environmentally-friendly manner (wild-crafted)
12. All ingredients must be bio-degradable as possible
13. Fair-Trade ingredients must be used when possible

To top it off, his salon is 100% wind powered.

I highly suggest visiting this little gem, if only to get inspired.

www.johnmasters.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

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/

02-10-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
What is really in your nailpolish?
Tags: zoya | nailpolish | nagel |

When you paint your nails, you don't think about it really. You are busy making your hands look beautiful. But what is really in nail polish? It always smells so strong too...

It turns out there are a lot of bad things in most nail polishes.
Like formaldehyde, Campher, phthalates and Toluene.
These chemicals are toxic and could cause cancer eventually research shows.
Because your nails and skins absorps these chemicals, so they travel through your whole body. Not good!

Especially pregnant women should be careful.

But there is a solution:

nail polishes that do not have all these ingredients!

I found a brand named: Zoya.
Zoya has many nice colors and are easy to apply. They also last long!

you can find it in special nail salons, stores or online
www.zoya.com

14-08-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
cheap eco beauty product home made!
Tags: cheap | eco | beauty | homemade |

To make your own body scrub, it is very easy!

you basically need 3 ingredients ( preferably organic) :

1. a scrubbing ingredient: crushed salt, sugar, crushed nuts or anything else that can scrub but is not too coarse.

2. an oil to nurture and soften the skin. Anything from olive oil (not extra virgin) to coconut oil, almond oil.

3. an ingredient for the smell: lemon, tea tree, rose water, vanilla whatever is your favorite scent!

You mix it and use it on wet skin, and massage softly onto your skin. rinse with water.

it works!

08-09-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
What's really in your Make up?
Tags: dictionary | cosmetic | ingredients | avoid |

We know we have to be aware of what we eat, what we put in our mouth everyday... But do we have any clue of what we put on our body, and on our face?

What is in our body lotion, face cream, foundation and mascara?
Our skin absorbs everything, and then that goes into our bloodstream. Very important that we know what is in it.

There are a few ingredients that some ( like myself) are allergic to, or that are toxic. Mostly in the cheaper products, but sometimes even in expensive creams and make up.

Below is a list I found on the website www.alkalizeforhealth.net, that they state as toxic. ( and on the website they explain why) . Try to avoid these!

1) 1,4-dioxane
2) 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol (Bronopol)
3) Alcohol, Isopropyl (SD-40)
4) Ammonium Laureth Sulfate (ALES)
5) Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS)
6) Anionic Surfactants
7) Benzalkonium Chloride
8) Butylated Hudroxyanisole (BHA)
9) Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT)
10) Cationic surfactants
11) Cetalkonium chloride
12) Cetrimonium chloride
13) Chloromethylisothiazolinone
14) Isothiazolinone
15) Cocoamidopropyl Betaine
16) Cocoyl Sarcosine
17) Cyclomethicone
18) DEA (diethanolamine), MEA (Monoethanolamine), & TEA (triethanolamine)
19) Diazolidinyl urea
20) Dimethicone
21) Dimethicone Copolyol
22) Disodium Dioctyl Sulfosuccinate
23) Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate
24) Disodium Oleamide Sulfosuccinate
25) DMDM Hydantoin
26) Ethoxylated surfactants
27) FD&C Colour Pigments
28) Formaldehyde
29) Fragrance
30) Hydrolysed Animal Protein
31) Imidazolidinyl urea
32) Lanolin
33) Lauryl dimonium hydrolysed collagen
34) Lauryl or Cocoyl Sarcosine
35) Lauryl Sarcosine
36) Liquidum Paraffinum
37) MEA compounds
38) Methylisothiazolinone and Methylchloroisothiazolinone
39) Mineral Oil
40) Nitrosating Agents
41) Paraben preservatives (methyl, propyl, butyl, and ethyl)
42) Paraffin wax/oil
43) Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) compounds
44) Potassium Coco Hydrolysed Collagen
45) Propylene/Butylene Glycol
46) PVP/VA Copolymer
47) Quaternium-7, 15, 31, 60, etc
48) Rancid Natural Emollients
49) Silicone derived emollients
50) Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
51) Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) Ammonium Laureth Sulfate (ALES)
52) Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
53) Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS)
54) Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
55) Stearalkonium Chloride
56) Talc
57) TEA (Triethanolamine) Laureth Sulfate
58) TEA compounds
59) Toluene

Especially avoid products with parabens and things including "aluminium" (for instance in deodorant) as they have been linked to serious illnesses like cancer and Alzheimer's Disease.

The following book is very interesting to find out what is in you daily body regiment:
"A Consumer's Dictionary Of Cosmetic Ingredients" by Ruth Winter.
It states exactly what every ingredient is, what it does, and wether it is harmful.

Also the websites below are very helpful, so check them out!

picture: Lonneke by Marc de Groot

www.amazon.com/Consumers-Dictionary-Cosmetic-Ingredients-Cos
www.cosmeticdatabase.com
www.oodora.com/health-and-food/personal-care/10-toxic-ingred

03-09-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Bioplanet Belgium
Tags: bio planet | supermarket | organic | food |

If you live in the flemmish part of Belgium, or close, you can shop at one of the shops of Bioplanet.

Bioplanet is a chain of shops where you can buy groceries, that are organic, fair trade and/or eco friendly.( They have 3500+ products!)

Not only groceries, they also have the best choices in skin care, hair care, baby products, and things for your house and garden.

When they open a new store, the people at Bio Planet always want to think about the environment: They prefer a building that already exists, and use the most eco friendly materials in the shop.

I really enjoy these stores and wish they would have more shops spread throughout Europe. Their fresh produce is great too! And I love the skin care products by Dr Hauschka, and shower gel from Sante

Go Bio Planet!
www.bioplanet.be

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17-08-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Sustainable NYC
Tags: sustainable | nyc | shop |

IN Manhattan, NYC, on Avenue A between 8th and 9th street, is a Shop and cafe located called "Sustainable NYC".

This place sells anything that is the best of everything. Meaning the best ethical values. They sell products like things for your home, skin care, clothing, gifts among other things. They all are at least one of the following: organic, fair trade, recycled, good for your health, environment friendly, animal cruelty free, etc.

My favorite is the water test, so you can test your drinking water if it has bacteria in it. Also, I like the recycled magnets of beer crowns ($2,-), and the computer bag with solar panels, that actually recharge your computer!( that one is of course a bit more expensive)

It is fun to explore the store!

www.sustainable-nyc.com

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

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!

31-05-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Allergy to Cosmetics?
Tags: cosmetics | allergy | cucumber | toxic | books |

I would sometimes get swollen, irritated eyes, after a shoot. It was extremely painful, I couldn’t work as a model because I looked like bees stung me multiple times in my eyelids. Not one cream would soothe, they would actually all hurt. The only thing that worked was a fresh Cucumber. Slice it and pour the juice over my eyes. That would soothe it! All natural. Anyway, I didn’t know where my allergy came from, so I got a food allergy test, but nothing significant came out. Then I went to the hospital and had a bloodtest, and another test , with stickers on my back. Each sticker was an additive, that you can find in most common day to day skin/ hair care products, or products you use around the house. The stickers stay on 3 days, and afterwards you can see what your allergies are. For me it was a straight winner: Diazolidinyl Urea, and his brother Imidazodinyl Urea where so irritated, it was obvious they were the problem. I was happy I knew, but then I started checking skincare products, and these things are in so many products! This because they are cheap preservatives. But just knowing they can form formaldehyde which is extremely toxic and can cause cancer, I knew I had to eliminate them. Thank god more and more products are produced without it. My growing interest in finding out what is exactly in makeup, skin and hair care, made me read about all the additives in products and food. And trust me you won’t be happy if you find out what all those ingredients are that you can’t pronounce, that are in your nice day cream! So be smart and buy one of those books with the list of all used cosmetic additives, or go online, and see what is in your body care products. If you have an allergic reaction, you should ask your doctor/dermatologist if he can arrange a test for you. You will be so happy when you find out! I have the book “A Consumer’s dictionary to cosmetic ingredients” by Ruth Wither, it is about 17 bucks and it lists all additives and explains exactly what they do! I think this book everyone should have on their book shelve, as it is always smart to read what’s in the products you use every day. Nowadays I ALWAYS read ingredient lists, and I haven’t had an allergic reaction ( knock on wood) since. When I do a photo shoot I ask the makeup artist and hairdresser if I can check their products. Being informed Is half way to eliminating pain and discomfort!
www.webmd.com/allergies/allergy-tests

01-05-2009 | Posted by: Lonneke Engel
Water!
Tags: body | science |

The earth consists of 70 % water. Your body weight is between 45% and 75% water, which is needed for you to live. It hydrates cells, lungs, and thins blood. Because of this important role in the body, It is important to make sure you do not get dehydrated. In these times, everybody seems to be always running around, running on coffee. Coffee actually dehydrates your body, just like flying, breathing, sweating and alcohol. It is important to drink between 4-8 glasses of water a day and also food that consists of a lot of water, like fruits and vegetables. Soda and tea also do not count for water. Water can heal, even the worst hangovers can get better with a few glasses of water, since this replenishes the cells which alcohol has dried out. Keep a bottle of water around you at all times, and drink from it regularly. I usually start the day with a big glass of (hot) water with some lemon juice. This cleanses the toxins out of your insides and your skin. Skin looks much better when drinking a lot of water. And as a plus, drinking water makes you fill up and prevents overeating. So a lot of good stories about water, something we should care for. Clean drinking water is our most precious asset! The world doesn't care for it enough, as you can see in the linked video below.