Today on the blog I’m showing you how to save money on clean beauty. I hear the phrase a lot, I can’t afford to swap my beauty products out. Or switching over is so expensive. I hear you and I totally get it. It’s not easy to just drop a couple hundred on some new clean beauty products. That’s why I want to introduce you to my secret weapon when it comes to saving money when buying natural beauty products.
Have you heard of Pharmaca? Well, if you haven’t let me introduce you! They’re an online natural wellness retailer that carries everything from clean beauty products, to natural supplements, kid’s products and more.
I love finding a one stop shop where I can literally buy my toothpaste, get my favorite lipstick, and grab some clean shampoo. Instead of shopping at 3 different stores online.
I wanted to share why Pharmaca is my go too when getting clean products for a good price. Keep reading to find out why this retailer takes the cake!
*This post does contain affiliate links. If you do purchase something from one of them I will receive a small commission.
These are some of my favorite clean beauty products from Pharmaca!
1st-Pharmaca carries QUALITY products.
Yes, you read that right. It’s not some retailer selling random things. They carry all the big name green beauty brands, natural living brands and supplement brands. Plus, their selection is amazing!
2nd-It’s all in ONE place.
No more going back and forth between five websites trying to get green beauty brands in one place and supplements in another. Now, you can just do it all at once and save yourself some precious time.
3rd-Shopping at Pharmaca SAVES you money.
Yes, you heard me right! They are always having a great sale or gift with purchase. Plus, you get free shipping after $35- hello. Most retailers are $50 and higher.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gone to their website to purchase something and was amazed to find they also carried another one of my products too. Pharmaca has made my life more streamlined and easier as a mom and fellow natural living enthusiast.
Isn’t it amazing?! Huge savings plus quality products. I wanted to share some of my very favorite brands and products that you can find at Pharmaca below.
100% Pure Caffeine Eye Cream This eye cream wakes up my tired mama eyes and helps minimize the puffiness. I’m so impressed with the price and the quality of the product! I even put mine in the fridge to help de-puff even more.
Radius FlossThis floss is always the best deal on Pharmaca. I love knowing that it’s free from teflon and other chemicals they put on conventional floss.
Himalaya Toothpaste I was excited to try this toothpaste for the first time. I had read rave reviews about it. I really like the formula. It isn’t overly foaming and my teeth feel clean and polished after using. I’ll have to wait and see how much it whitens but so far I’m impressed!
Dr. Bronner’s Soaps Love these soaps in general, but love this convenient travel size for all my trips! You can use it to wash your hands, your body, even get a stain out of a shirt. I love the hemp scented one.
Max Green Alchemy Hair Paste- I’ve been on the hunt for a texture paste that works and isn’t going to blow the budget. Well, I finally found one! I had heard good things about Max Green Alchemy Scalp Rescue Texture Paste and was excited it lived up to the hype. It comes in tube form and retails for $14.99, but at Pharmaca they are always having discounts so you can usually get it for 20% off! This works on my husband’s hair to give him a nice textured look and some decent hold without it looking wet or crispy. It also works on my hair too. I take a small dime size amount and rub through my hands. After, curling I take my hands and work it through to piece out the curls and add some texture and hold. A great product all around and at a great price!
Evan Healy Sweet Blossom Hydrating Oil- This body oil has been in my beauty arsenal for 5 years- it’s so good! I love the smell. It has notes of frankincense, neroli, and ylang ylang in it. When you apply it to your skin it soaks right up. But leaves behind a silly smooth feeling. Made with a combination of jojoba, sunflower, sesame and apricot kernel oil. It envelops your skin and leaves lasting moisture.
Preserve Razor Tripe Blade- These razors are made from recycled materials, some of the recycled products are yogurt cups. Pretty cool! Also, the whole razor is recyclable itself. They give my skin a smooth feeling but I don’t feel like they’re so sharp that they are going to nick me easily. I love that they’re easy to travel with too and budget friendly. A great pick instead of getting a plastic one you can’t recycle.
Acure Captivating Light Body Oil- This body oil is great for travel! I love having it on hand for trips. It doesn’t come in glass like the Evan Healy one, which makes it perfect for a trip. You can easily toss it in your bag and not worry about it breaking. Plus, it smells so good and sprays too- pretty cool. If coconut isn’t your fave, they also have other scents too.
ZuZu Lipsticks- These lipsticks are another great value for a green beauty lipstick. It goes on so smooth and doesn’t bleed. I love the color Starlet! A cool candy apple red. The perfect statement lip for those days when you want to look pulled together but don’t want to do a full face of makeup.
100% Pure Eye Mask-I love these masks! They can wake up any tired eyes. Plus, they are great at de-puffing and minimizing dark circles. You apply them underneath your eyes and it instantly feels cooling and refreshing. The eye gels are made from a combination of aloe vera gel and plant cellulose. I love bringing these with me on trips, and also for early mornings when my eyes need a little bit of help. Trust me- you’ll be hooked!
Juice Beauty Sport Moisturizer Sunscreen SPF 30-I love a good mineral based sunscreen and this one by Juice Beauty did not disappoint! It is packed full the natural mineral zinc oxide which helps block the sun without the harmful chemicals. It does go on a bit whiter, which is typical of mineral based sunscreens. But sometimes I prefer that when applying to my kiddos. It helps me to see where I’ve applied it and I find they don’t burn as easily. This sunscreen stood the test of pool days quite well!
Inika Organic Liquid Foundation- This foundation had me at first swipe! I really can’t get over it. It goes on so smooth, doesn’t look cakey and lasts the whole day. I tried their bb cream but I prefer their liquid foundation over it. It makes your skin look so dewy and lit from within. I would apply it with my fingers or a foundation brush. It blends so easily into the skin. A great foundation for those with dry to normal skin types.
Inika Organic Mineral Blush Duo- I’ve quickly fallen for anything and everything Inika Organic! Their products speak for themselves. This is the first time I’ve tried one of their baked Mineral Blushes. This blush is so pretty. It has a mix of blush rose pink and a soft peach hue. A great mix! I love that it’s a pressed blush. Makes it so easy to use and less messy. The blush color is very light and subdued. It really gives an overall natural look. I like layering this blush on top of a cream blush. This helps the blush last longer and gives it a little glow too! A great blush for anyone who likes an overall soft, understated look.
All Good Body Lotion- This is a great budget friendly body lotion. It really performs so well one comes in a tube which makes it so easy to travel with.
So excited to share my Organic California Travel Guide with you! If you’ve been following me then you know I took a 2 week trip throughout California hitting up some of the best organic food, and eco resorts. California has it all when it comes to living out a natural lifestyle. Their produce is some of the best, the ocean is always a welcome calming playground and when it comes to eating out they’ve got the natural and organic menus down to a science. Oh and they have loads of sunshine!
I wanted to outline all my favorites after traveling there for so many years and also share some of my favorite resorts and lodging accommodations with you. Whether you’re traveling with your family, a significant other or just by yourself, I’ve got something for everyone.
I’ll be sharing my favorite places by city so you’ll know exactly where to find them. California is one place where any organic and natural traveler can have their cake and eat it too! They have a little of everything. You will be sure to have the best time and come back refreshed and with a full belly.
There’s nothing like playing at the beach in your dress!
Laguna Beach, California
I mean what’s not to love about Laguna Beach? Really nothing. It’s the quintessential little beach town. Standing on one of the highest points it almost looks like a little Italian coastal village. The shops are all quaint and easy to access, as well as the beach area. There’s a playground on the beach where the kids can play, volleyball games taking place and lots of sunbathing. Everyone who lives there seems to loves it. It feels like you step back in time a little to a slower pace. I love how walkable the little city is. Bottom line, if you haven’t been then you need to go- it won’t disappoint.
We had the pleasure of staying at one of the finest resorts there. It was truly a little getaway even from the hustle and bustle of Laguna Beach. I wanted to share my full experience as this resort is one of kind and truly special, especially when it comes to sustainability.
Sharing my full experience staying at The Ranch At Laguna Beach.
The Ranch At Laguna Beach
Check out the video below to take a peek inside The Ranch!
Where do I even begin with this gem? It was such a treat to stay here. If you want to feel completely relaxed, away from it all, yet still close to the action- The Ranch At Laguna Beach is it. You feel completely carried away into the resort’s slower chill pace. It’s between the canyon and the beach. You wake up to birds chirping and golf games happening. You can easily get right to the heart of Laguna Beach quickly, but it feels nice to be away from it all as well.
Trust me, you won’t get bored. There’s a salt water pool- yes salt water, I was ecstatic to find this out. Also, Sycamore Spa complete with facials, massage, wraps, scrubs and a co-ed infrared sauna. You can easily get a golf cart lift to the beach where you can enjoy dining at their Lost Pier Cafe. Of course the Ben Brown’s 9 hole golf coursecan keep you busy. And don’t you worry about food, there is plenty to go around at The Ranch. From their Harvest restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as has a full bar. If you’re wanting a more casual feel Ben’s Pantry is a great pick, or even grab some food in your room through in room dining.
We stayed in one of the cottage two bedroom suites.
I love how they have Spring on The Porch Mondays- Saturdays at The Ranch. Live music is played, corn hole games are on and the fire pits are going with toasty specials. It feels like grown up glamping. Plus, you can stargaze at night with their master astronomer. In between all the activities I would recommend just pulling out your favorite book and settling down on your resort rooms porch into a rocking chair- now that’s the good life! Check out all the activities they offer here.
Of course you know I’m always looking for resorts taking it to the next level when it comes to sustainability and The Ranch At Laguna Beach is a cut above. I was so impressed with all the efforts they take to make this resort eco friendly. I had the pleasure of getting a tour of The Ranch and seeing their sustainability practices in action. There are a few I wanted to highlight.
The organic gardens on site is one of my favorite things about the resort!
Glass Bottles Repurposed- Every glass bottle on The Ranch is crushed on site into sand and used to fill bunkers on the golf course, filtration in the pool and pavement repairs. The Ranch is the first resort in America to have a GLSand glass-bottle crusher on site. It is a compact machine that creates sand like product from glass bottles. Pretty cool if you ask me!
New Eco Water System- The Ranch also installed a new water system in 2015 that uses reclaimed water for watering the resort grounds, including gold course. This new system will save 21.2 million gallons of water annually.
Organic Garden- 1/2 an acre of land is dedicated to organic gardening at The Ranch. The produce is then used in The Harvest Restaurant by the Chef for seasonal specials, seasonal drinks and for testing new recipes. They also practice composting as much as they can. I got a full tour of the garden and it was amazing! Truly taking farm to table to the next level.
National Geographic Unique Lodges Of The World- The Ranch is the first hotel in California to be in The National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World. It is one of only 6 members in the United States alone to hold this title. Such an honor considering the criteria for receiving this recognition is showing a dedication to sustainability, unique local experiences, and superior service and hospitality.
Paper Staws- In an effort to reduce plastic use, The Ranch only offers paper straws for use with their partnership with National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World.
Room Keys- Their room keys are so cool! As a designer himself that was one of the first things my husband noticed. Instead of plastic key cards, they are made wooden and bamboo circles. You can keep them as a souvenir or return to the front desk. If they do get thrown away they will just dissolve into the soil. The Ranch estimates that around 25,000 less plastic key cards will not go into a landfill because of this small change.
I can’t forget the rooms. They are as luxe and relaxing as you would imagine. I had my husband and two girls with me so we stayed in thetwo bedroom canyon suite. It was perfect. It has a living area downstairs with outside porch and bathroom. Then you go upstairs and you have two bedrooms and a bathroom. It can technically sleep six since the sofa downstairs pulls out into a bed. The rooms upstairs are roomy and the closest spacious. We had more than enough room with our little family. The beds felt so soft, I slept like a baby.
One of the bedrooms upstairs had a deck off of it as well, complete with rocking chairs. The bathroom was complete with two sinks and ample room. Plenty of room for even a larger family. I loved knowing we could go out and enjoy the activities, yet come back and retreat to our room if we wanted. A true resort feel. Check out all their accommodations here!
If you’re in the Laguna Beach area and you’re wondering where to stay- wonder no more. The Ranch At Laguna Beach has it all. It is truly a sustainable resort, leading the way with their efforts. Even though their sustainability is a hallmark for them, every other detail doesn’t go unnoticed. You still feel like you’re staying in complete luxury. This definitely won’t be my last stay at The Ranch, already planning a girl’s trip with my sisters!
These gluten free and dairy free ice cream sandwiches from hiveXO were off the hook!
hiveXO-
A lot of you had recommended this place to me and let’s just say it did not disappoint. They offer a ton of dairy and gluten free treats that are absolutely delicious. I got two gluten free chocolate chip cookies between some coconut ice-cream. Let’s just say it was a match made in ice cream sandwich heaven! They also list all the ingredients on the label! Pretty cool to see exactly what you’re eating. All the ingredients are organic too! Trust me, you need to go there. They don’t really have a website, I had just found them on Yelp. Check them out here!
Some other recs that we didn’t get a chance to try out but people recommended to us are:
The Stand Natural Foods
Babette’s Newport Beach- not right in Laguna but super close
Newport Beach
I love Newport Beach! It has the ocean, fun restraints, good shopping and lots of good food. I love the walking/biking path along the ocean. Renting bikes there and riding along that path is seriously therapy in itself. Feels so good. The beach is always hopping with activity. I love how you can walk to a lot of things too. If you get the chance to go, do it!
Hyatt Regency Newport Beach-
We stayed here our first night in Southern California. I was a little disappointed in the room size. It felt really small and just not as nice as the photos had shown online. I’ve learned that internet photos are very deceiving. I did mention to you on my stories that we were bummed. My hubs actually went and spoke with them and they ended up giving us a different room in the main hotel. It was much roomier and the door didn’t hit the bed when you opened it.
I’m not one to complain but the hotel wasn’t cheap by any means and typically when I book a Hyatt I think I’m going to be getting pretty good quality. Anyways, they were very sweet and accommodating about it all and even comped our parking. I would stay there again if we were staying in the main building. The pool was amazing and girls didn’t want to leave it. It has a slide and water fountains for them to play in. I also love the location. It’s close to a lot of fun shopping and restaurants. Check it out here!
I got the seasonal chicken gluten free wrap from True Food Kitchen- so good!
True Food Kitchen-
I’ve gone to this True Food Kitchen in Newport Beach more times than I can count. It’s always fun because you can sit outside. If you haven’t been to a True Food Kitchen you need to go! This is the holy grail of organic, local, real food. Dr. Andrew Weil founded True Food Kitchen. His desire was that food should make you feel better not worse. They offer gluten free, organic, vegetarian, vegan- really however you want it. They believe in the anti-inflammatory diet and eating food that truly nourishes the body. I love their whole mission! They have so many good options there. A few of my favorites are: Herb Hummus, Kale Guacamole, Charred Cauliflower, Ancient Grains Bowl, Inside Out Quinoa Burger, Grass-fed Burger, Spaghetti Squash Casserole, and Grass-fed Steak Tacos. For drinks I love their Kale Aide and Original Ginger “O.G.”- so much goodness there! Check it out here.
The organic açaí bowls at SEJUICED were nothing short of delicious.
SEJUICED-
This is a new gem I stumbled upon this last trip. It is this superfood cafe that is just over the top! Their standards are amazing, organic, non-GMO, plant based, and dairy free. They offer smoothies, smoothie bowls, superfood lattes, vegan treats, cold pressed juices, and salad bowls. I basically had to restrain myself from trying one of everything! We got the Warrior smoothie bowls and they were delicious. FYI you could definitely share it with someone, they are huge. We also got the blue mojo cold pressed juice and raw almond joy bar. They did not disappoint. If you have a chance to go there, do it! Check it out here.
The Black Bean Burger on a gluten free bun never disappoints.
Cafe Gratitude-
This is a staple I always go to when I’m in Newport Beach. It’s an all vegan farm to table restaurant. Side note they’re decor is always on point and so chic. Every time I go I want to order something new. I’m not vegan but I do appreciate eating vegan on occasion and the variety of flavors they offer. If you can go for brunch you should make it happen- so good! A couple items I love our their guacamole, roasted brussel sprouts, Mucho Mexican Bowl, Magical Black Bean Burger. Their Effervescent House Gingerale is amazing as well as their Healing Chlorophyll. You really can’t go wrong with their selections, the atmosphere and overall vibe.Check it out here!
Blue Bowl has won my heart for best açaí bowl!
Blue Bowl-
This isn’t technically in Newport Beach but they have several locations not crazy far. I have to mention it because it’s my favorite açaí bowl place I’ve found! What makes them so great is you can customize it to your liking. You literally get to create your own bowl! Sometimes I find I don’t like what’s being offered on açaí bowl menus. So this is amazing. They also offer unique toppings, like chia pudding or steel cut oatmeal. I love how I can layer different things in. Trust me, once you try them you will be hooked! I discovered them last November and every time we are in the area we make a point to stop there. Check them out here!
Palm Desert
We stayed in Palm Desert for a week with my mom and dad and siblings and their families. It was so fun! If you want some heat and sunshine the desert is the place to go for sure. It was only an hour and 45 minute drive from Newport Beach. We made most of our meals here since we had a kitchen. We stocked up at Costco, Whole Foods and Sprouts.
We loved staying at the Wyndham Indio Resort!
Club Wyndham In Indio-
We stayed at Club Wyndham in Indio, California. It’s a little over a 20 minute drive from Palm Desert. I absolutely loved staying here! They are condos. So you have a full kitchen and washer and dryer. We stayed in a 2 bedroom unit with 2 bathrooms. We had plenty of room. The pool was the highlight for sure! Or I should say pools. They have a main pool that is quite large and offers a lazy river and kiddie/toddler pool, plus hot tubs. The lazy river was so fun! You pick up a tube and just plop down and float around the river. I didn’t want to leave. They also have another pool and kiddie pool in a separate area of the resort. The kiddie/toddler pool was so nice! It is so shallow you didn’t even have to worry about the kids as much and they loved playing in there. I was kind of surprised how much they liked it. They also have 2 tennis courts, game room, tons of outdoors grills, fitness center, and playgrounds. If you’re looking for a family friendly place to getaway, I would definitely recommend it! Check it out here.
This organic dairy free ice-cream hit the spot!
Nitroinfusions-
One night we went out for ice cream to Nitroinfusions. They actually make the ice-cream right in front of you- pretty cool. All the kiddos liked that! All their ice cream is organic and not made with any additives or preservatives since it’s made right in front of you. They also had some dairy free options that I was excited about. I got the dairy free chocolate made with coconut milk. So good! If you’re needing a sweet treat, check this out here.
These were some tasty açaí bowls!
Bowl Of Heaven-
This açaí bowl and smoothie place is super yummy. My hubs and I both got the Almond Butter Bowl. This was our dinner one night- super filling and refreshing. Great after a long day in the sun too! Check them out here!
The little shops and streets are so charming in Santa Barbara.
Santa Barbara
This was my first time in Santa Barbara and I must say I was smitten with all the charm. It’s so cute. Seems very European with it’s architecture and close shops. I love the old world feel it has. It’s right along the ocean. Making it fun for outdoor activities. But they also have so many fun shops I wanted to check out too. The vibe feels laid back and easy. We were only there a night, so definitely need to go back to check out all that it has to offer!
These bikes were the cutest at Hotel Milo in Santa Barbara.
Hotel Milo-
We stayed at Hotel Milo in Santa Barbara. I was drawn to it by it’s charm and closeness to the beach. You literally cross the street and the beach is right there. I loved looking out and seeing the water. It’s a boutique hotel. They have table and chairs outside the rooms where you can sit and eat. Also, the cutest basket bikes that are complimentary as part of your stay. It didn’t work for us to use them on this trip but I could see just my hubs and I going back and taking them for a spin. They offer daily wine tasting from 4-6 pm. I loved how close it was to everything. I don’t know if I would go there with a group of girls, as the bathroom was really small. Might make it a little tricky. But then again maybe not. Just something to think about. Check out Hotel Milo here!
Viva Modern Mexican-
This was so good! My hubs and I both wanted Mexican food when we were there. Viva offers cauliflower tortillas as an option and organic ingredients. I ordered the filet mignon tacos and my hubs ordered the steak fajitas. SO good! The food tasted fresh and had such a good flavor. Check them out here!
Loved everything about Lilac Patisserie!
Lilac Patisserie-
This was also delicious. A lot of readers had recommended it to me. Their whole menu is gluten free, which is amazing and their fruit was all organic. I got the vegetable quiche which was amazing! I don’t remember the last time I had quiche! Typically they aren’t gluten free, so this was a real treat. My daughter got the homemade gluten free granola with oat milk. My hubs got the breakfast sandwich and then we got a bowl of organic berries. It was all so good and tasted fresh. It’s so cute in there too! You feel like you’ve been transported to a french cafe- not that I know what that feels like haha but it’s what I imagine in my head. If you get the chance to go there, do it. Check them out here.
Green Table-
We also made a quick stop at Green Table. They offer vegan and gluten free food. I wished we had stayed in Santa Barbara longer but since our stay was so short we just couldn’t eat as much as we wanted- first world problems! I did want to stop and just check them out. Their smoothies and juices looked amazing, as well as their matcha menu. They also had so many salads, and food creations that looked so yummy. I had to get a little sweet treat while I was there after checking out there raw and vegan desserts. We all shared a raw matcha mint brownie and a flourless raw chia chocolate-cupcake. They were tasty to say the least! Check them out here.
Northern California
We stopped at a couple places on our way down from Washington in Northern California and on our way up from Southern California. It’s amazing what you can find when you’re looking for healthier food and eco lodging options.
The views from Costanoa Lodge of the ocean were amazing!
Costanoa Lodge
I was so excited to stay here! I had heard great things about them and it sounded like the perfect place to share some special memories with my family. It is definitely a family friendly place and one of the reasons I was drawn to it in the first place. It’s right on the coast of northern California. It’s liking camping but you’re really glamping. My kind of camping! They have a variety of options for accommodations. You can stay in the lodge, the cabins or tent bungalows. The cabins offer different options depending on your needs. We chose the Coastal Studio RV. They can accommodate up to 5 family members. They offer a queen bed, two bunk beds, sleeper sofa, full bathroom with amenities, two flat screen TVs, full refrigerator, microwave, coffee station, front porch, and outdoor picnic deck. For us a bathroom was important to have in the unit.
The Coastal Studio RV was perfect for our family of four!
I was so impressed with how clean everything felt and well maintained! Even my hubs commented. I love that all the floors were wood and there was no carpet. Just felt easy to keep clean. The bathroom was roomy and nice too. I also loved having a partial kitchen in the unit. They had two stovetop burners where you could cook something on. I want to go back and stay there with my extended family. It would be the perfect blend of nature, yet still having modern conveniences. They had playgrounds, fire pits, tons of biking and hiking trails, kayaking, horseback riding, and even yoga. They even offer guided bird watching tours, stargazing, the-dye workshops, and wine tasting events. Plus, a spa that offers a variety of massages. Great after all your outdoor activities. You can even have group meetings there and weddings. They were actually setting up for a wedding when we were there. Check out all their activities here.
The bunk beds were a hit with my girls!
I have to tell you about my experience at their Cascade Restaurant and Bar. It was over the top amazing! The food is farm to table and they are committed to organic produce and practices. They source from local farmers but also have an organic garden that they use for the dishes as well. I mean how cool is that?! My husband and I said it was the best meal we had our whole trip. I wish I had met the chef because I wanted to thank her for all the deliciousness. We ordered the Deviled Green Eggs and Ham for an appetizer, Rib Eye Steak and the House Salad. Everything tastes so fresh and bursting with flavor. It was the best steak ever- clearly my hubs and I are still talking about it! Sometimes simple foods are the best foods. I can’t recommend the Cascade Restaurant enough. They are open for brunch and dinner. Plus, they have a full bar as well.
The Cascade Restaurant at the Costanoa Lodge was the best meal we had all trip.
I can’t forget the general store on site. I was so impressed with their offerings! Most of the time stores on site can be lacking in the organic food department but not this one. They offered a lot of local and organic food options. Especially for packaged goods. They even had wine you could buy as well. It was nice knowing if I needed something quick or was in a bind I could make a quick trip there to get it.
The deviled egg appetizer was legit at the Cascade Restaurant.
I have been raving about Costanoa since we stayed there! It feels like a truly relaxing getaway especially in today’s fast paced technology driven world. Hearing the ocean, smelling the salt air and being surrounded by the ones you loves is definitely a recipe for a good time. Costanoa offers it all. Check them out here!
The cauliflower pizza at Pieology was really good.
Pieology-
We ate at this pizza place in Sacramento. Its not organic but sometimes you just have to do the best you can when you’re on the road. This is a prime example. What I liked about it, is they offer cauliflower pizza crust and gluten free pizza crust. I also avoid meat at places I’m not sure of the sourcing. For me meat is one I’m picky about. I got a cauliflower pizza crust and it was great! All the toppings seemed fresh and I love that they bake it right when you order it. If you’re needing something kid friendly, and semi-quick this is a decent option. Check them out here!
Nature’s Pantry hit the spot for an off the freeway lunch spot in Yreka.
Nature’s Kitchen-
I was so impressed with this restaurant find! It’s organic and uses fresh ingredients. It proves if you do a little digging you really can find so many fun treasures! We stopped here in Yreka for lunch on our way down through Northern California. They have an organic menu with vegan and gluten free options. They also have a small health store attached to it. I even found my favorite stevia sweetened ginger brew there by Brooklyn Crafted- score! It’s more of a breakfast, late lunch spot. They don’t serve dinner. I got the chicken sandwich and salad. They had this gluten free bread that was amazing! I wished I would have asked the server if they made it. Check them out here!
Roots Juice Bar-
We also stopped at Roots Juice Bar in Redding, California. One of my good friends from college lives there and we met up there. She knew I would love it and she was right. All organic ingredients, they have smoothies, juices, açaí bowls, wraps, and shots. I got the Popeye Smoothie and added cashews and chia seeds to it- so good. Definitely worth going! Check them out here.
That sums up my Organic California Travel Guide. I hope you found it helpful! What are some of your favorite organic food and sustainable resorts in California?
Sharing all my favorite organic and natural food and lodging in California.
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Sharing my 7 tips to living healthy as a busy mom! Have you ever felt like living healthy in the 21st century is challenging? We all have our reasons right? It might be you don’t have time to cook, you can’t find time to exercise or take some time in the morning to pray, meditate or just be still. Whatever it may be, we all know when we are feeling our best and taking control of our health and when we aren’t.
Over the past month I’ve even felt like I don’t measure up! Being pregnant with my third baby has definitely thrown it’s curve balls when it comes to healthy living. I’ve had weeks in the first trimester where I barley cooked because I was vomiting and so nauseous that the thought of cooking anything repulsed me. I’ve had moments where I just wanted pizza and not a salad. Days where I’m so tired the idea of going for a walk sounded like a half marathon. Trust me, I’ve been there!
Having kids can definitely change things up. Your plans don’t always go as “planned” and you’re often feeling like how does everyone do “ALL” the things. I mean I even I think that and I’m a natural lifestyle blogger? I know as a mom it’s really made me prioritize what’s most important and what can wait when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle. Because at the end of the day, there’s only 24 hours in a day and I can’t do it all!
When your single or even just married life can often look a little different. I know it did for me. I didn’t have to plan as much, could do things when I wanted and things didn’t pop up as much as they do now with kids. Any other mom remember those days?
I know as a mom it’s really made me prioritize what’s most important and what can wait when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle.
I realized if I feel like I’m running the rat race when it comes to healthy living at times, how much more are other moms?!
As much as I want to sauna, fix the perfect instagram worthy meal everyday, have my house in immaculate condition, exercise, practice prayer or meditation, do red light therapy, fix my kids the perfect healthy meals…sometimes it just doesn’t all happen. I’m human, and I’m reminded daily by 2 little girls and a growing babe in my belly.
Does that mean I throw in the towel and think this healthy lifestyle isn’t for me?
Not at all! I’ve learned flexibility is key and planning when it comes to life with kids now. There’s also lots of seasons as kids grow and you just have to learn how to pivot.
I wanted to share 7 tips to living a healthy life as a busy mom that have really made such a difference in my own life. I want to fully embrace the season I am in and these babies I’ve been blessed with! I love knowing I can teach them healthy habits and have them grow up living them out for themselves, their family and the environment.
I also realized if healthy living is going to happen in the homes, it’s usually up to the mamas! We hold so much power and can shape how our family operates and lives everyday. For example, I know if I cook healthy food that’s what my hubs will eat! I’m sure it goes for most of your husbands too. We women often set the tone.
I want to arm you with some tips that helped me so much and have shifted my mindset when it comes to creating a healthy lifestyle as a busy mom. These tips have saved me time, money, and stress.
I hope they help you as much as they’ve helped me!
Living healthy as a busy mom doesn’t have to be hard or complicated. With these tips I’ve learned it can be fun and enjoyable!
1. Plan ahead-
I feel like you’re all looking at me going, “Yeah, I’ve heard that a thousand times!” Ok, well my question then is are you practicing it? It’s so easy to hear something but not actually put it into action. PLANNING, will literally change your life! Imagine what it would look like if you didn’t plan out your meals for the week. When it’s time to eat breakfast lunch or dinner, instead of feeling prepared and able to pull something out of the fridge you scramble last minute to throw something together. The end result is it’s not that healthy, maybe it ends up being takeout, a trip to the grocery store where you spend more money, or eating cereal for dinner. The point is you end up frazzled, not well fed and having spent more money than you wanted. Not cool, right?! So what if you took 30 minutes each week and planned your meals. 30 minutes! That’s it. You plan out breakfast, lunch and dinner and snacks if you need them. You take your list to the grocery store and you get everything you need. You then take an hour or two and prep one day. Wouldn’t that make life SO much easier? I know it does for me. We all know what happens to kids when 5 O’Clock rolls around…they turn into hungry hippos and the last thing any mom wants to do is try to come up with some healthy meal amidst whining and crying.
Planning also comes into play for exercise. If you don’t plan it into your schedule the likelihood of it happening is slim to none. Penciling in when you’re going to get some activity into your day is crucial for actually seeing it happen. Right down what your going to do, and tell someone. You’re so much more likely to actually do it if someone else knows.
Planning your life as a family in general. Do you ever feel like your kids are in too many activities, and you’re just running around with your head cut off? A lot of times it might seem necessary to have your kids in every activity but really it might not be. Both my hubs and I have realized we don’t want to live a taxi service lifestyle. I definitely want my kids involved in sports but I also don’t want to feel stressed out all the time, overwhelmed and not having any family time. For each family it will look different, but I challenge you to take an inventory of all your extracurricular activities. Maybe one activity per season is doable but is three? Think about what seems manageable and enjoyable for your family. Every situation is different so do what feels best for you and your family.
One of my secret weapons to living out a holistic lifestyle? Green Smoothies!
2. Drink a smoothie a day-
This one might seem odd but it literally has changed my life. You might be thinking why a smoothie? Well, for one it’s easy. I can prep all my smoothie ingredients, have them in the freezer or fridge and then just pop them in the blender in the morning. Easy peasy! Then I can take it with me on the go to work, dropping off the kids etc. I love knowing that I’m getting a nutrient dense breakfast but on the go. It’s one less meal to have to think about making beforehand too. I make a smoothie for my hubs and I every morning and then in the summer months I make them for my girls for lunch.
I wrote and entire smoothie blog post all about what I put in my smoothies and why. I even have recipes to my favorite smoothies. This isn’t just a sugar smoothie, it’s full of healthy fats, fiber, protein and veggies. You’ll be full until lunch and satisfied. Check out the blog post here! Also, if you want to make it even easier for yourself, you can subscribe to Smoothie Box! It’s an all organic smoothie box that takes the guesswork out of making health smoothies. The smoothies come in prepackaged bags and all you have to do is add it to a blender with liquid and blend away. Check out Smoothie Box here!
3. Wake up before your kids-
Another serious game changer. I used to not wake up before my kids and really made my days so much harder. Instead of feeling prepped and ready for the day, I felt like I was thrown into the fire without any protection. Ok, a little extreme but you get what I’m saying. When I give myself time have a slow morning and do something for me right away my whole day goes better. I have more patience for my kids, I’m able to think a little more clearly, and make better decisions In the end, it always leads to a healthier life.
For me it’s getting up and having some quiet time reading, listening to a podcast or working out. Then I’m able to get breakfast on the table for my kids, make my smoothies and even throw in a load of laundry. Things just flow so much smoother when I allow myself a little “me” time before the kiddos come on the scene. Even if it’s only 30 minutes I challenge you to get up just a little earlier. I promise it will make such a difference in your day!
Vitacost saves me every month! Love this natural online shopping center!
4. Shop online-
I know this might sound counterintuitive to going green but hear me out. A lot of the companies I support are small companies trying to make it in this big world. Not only does shopping online save me a lot of time as a busy mom but it also gives me a chance to support smaller companies I might not. For instance I love shopping on Etsy! It’s one of my favorites for finding thoughtful and unique gifts for friends and family. I also buy online from a lot of local Seattle companies. I live an hour south of Seattle so being able to still support some of my favorite jewelers is awesome. I also get my pastured meat from a small company in California. I love knowing the quality is amazing but that they ship directly to me! Saves this mama so much time.
A few other stores I love shopping at are Vitacost for healthy organic dry goods- I have a whole blog post on my favorites here. I also love Amazon for convenience- and all the moms said AMEN! I have a whole Amazon blog post on all my favorites I get from them here. Just having things delivered when living out a healthy lifestyle helps me a ton. I’m able to spend more time making a decent meal for my family, spending time outdoors and just not stressing about driving here and there. They even have so many grocery delivery services now where you can order online and then have it delivered to your house! Take a little off your plate and start living out your healthy life, instead of feeling like you’re running around with your head cut off to 10 different stores.
Involving your family in activities makes living healthy so much more doable!
5. Make it a family activity-
It’s easy to want to compartmentalize everything but unfortunately that just isn’t reality once you have kids. An example of this is when I want to exercise. I’ve realized sometimes it means including my girls. Whether that’s playing with them outside, going for a walk as a family or even a bike ride. It might not look like an hour at the gym.
My brother and sister in law are a perfect example of this. They have 5 kids- yes I said 5! They had twin girls last year. But guess what? It didn’t stop them from getting working out. They were creative in making it a family activity. They would put the twins in a double bob stroller, walk and run with them, while the other girls would ride their bikes or scooter. They also set up a garage gym, so they didn’t have to go anywhere to get in a workout. They saved time by doing this and were able to show their kids the importance of staying active.
Same thing when it comes to being in the kitchen. I got my 5 year old a kid safe knife set so she can help me when I’m in the kitchen. Instead of having me make meals by myself she can now get involved. The more involved she is in preparing the food the more she learns about how real food is made. When you make things a family affair you may have to get a little creative but I promise it will be worth it!
6. Don’t compare-
Sounds easier said then done. Trust me I get it but it’s so worth it. How many times are you scrolling through Instagram and you see a photo of a someone with a picture perfect life and you start thinking I can’t live that way. Looks impossible. They’re so healthy, look at the meals they make, wow they’re house is always clean and they have the perfect body. Come on, we’ve all been there. But what you might not have seen is that the person you’re comparing yourself too actually is a work in progress too, like us all. Remember no life is perfect, even if it looks that way.
If you need to stop unfollowing people in order to get a right mindset, do it! Your life is amazing and awesome and if you truly don’t feel like it is, then do something about it. Start implementing one of these tips today and I know you’ll see a difference within the month. Small changes add up over time. I have learned to embrace my life, flaws and all. I love my kids and hubs and the messy life we’ve created. It’s not perfect but that’s ok, we’re human. Stop comparing and start loving your own life! Healthy living doesn’t look the same for everyone.
7. Say NO-
This one is so good and needed more than ever in our society! Have you ever felt like you literally are a taxi service for your kids? Or that you are constantly stressed out? Maybe you have to stay up so late every night just to get all the things done. It could be that every weekend you have some sort of family function, birthday party, or sporting event to go to. Sound familiar? I know I’ve been there. I’ve said yes to so many things that I literally end up running myself into the ground and getting sick. Do you know it’s ok to say no? Yes, you can say no and your friends won’t hate you(I mean if they do, are they even your friends), you’ll still have a life and you’ll still have fun. When you say no to things it puts you in control of your life instead of someone else.
I find when we say no, we aren’t rushing around but enjoying one another’s company, playing outside more and just being together as a family. When your gone all the time it doesn’t lend itself to a healthy lifestyle. You won’t have time to prep food, cook, or even have a normal routine. They say that adults thrive off of routine as much as children do. When you can get in a rhythm of life your body thanks you. When I know I’m home for the week I can get my workout in, make healthy meals, eat together as a family- all things that breath health into my life. Sometimes it might be hard saying no to all the invitations but at the end of the day you’re really saying yes to your health!
Do you implement any of these tips into your life? What tips have helped you as a busy mom live a healthier life?
Sharing my 7 tips to living healthy as a busy mom of two!
Sharing my 7 tips to living healthy as a busy mom! Have you ever felt like living healthy in the 21st century is challenging? We all have our reasons right? It might be you don’t have time to cook, you can’t find time to exercise or take some time in the morning to pray, meditate or just be still. Whatever it may be, we all know when we are feeling our best and taking control of our health and when we aren’t.
Over the past month I’ve even felt like I don’t measure up! Being pregnant with my third baby has definitely thrown it’s curve balls when it comes to healthy living. I’ve had weeks in the first trimester where I barley cooked because I was vomiting and so nauseous that the thought of cooking anything repulsed me. I’ve had moments where I just wanted to pizza and not a salad. Days where I’m so tired the idea of going for a walk sounds like a half marathon. Trust me, I’ve been there!
Having kids can definitely change things up. Your plans don’t always go as “planned” and you’re often feeling like how does everyone do “ALL” the things. Can I admit that even I think that and I’m a natural lifestyle blogger? I know as a mom it’s really made me prioritize what’s most important and what can wait when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle. Because at the end of the day, there’s only 24 hours in a day and I can’t do it all!
When your single or even just married life can often look a little different. I know it did for me. I didn’t have to plan as much, could do things when I wanted and things didn’t pop up as much as they do now with kids. Any other mom remember those days?
I realized if I feel like I’m running the rat race when it comes to healthy living at times, how much more are other moms?!
As much as I want to sauna, fix the perfect instagram worthy meal everyday, have my house in immaculate condition, exercise, practice prayer or meditation, do red light therapy, fix my kids the perfect healthy meals…sometimes it just doesn’t all happen. I’m human, and I’m reminded daily by 2 little girls and a growing babe in my belly.
Does that mean I throw in the towel and think this healthy lifestyle isn’t for me?
Not at all! I’ve learned flexibility is key and planning when it comes to life with kids now. There’s also lots of seasons as kids grow and you just have to learn how to pivot.
I wanted to share 7 tips to living life as a healthy mom that have really made such a difference in my own life. I want to fully embrace the season I am in and these babies I’ve been blessed with! I love knowing I can teach them healthy habits and have them grow up living them out for themselves, their family and the environment.
I also realized if healthy living is going to happen in the homes, it’s usually up to the mamas! We hold so much power and can shape how our family operates and lives everyday. For example, I know if I cook healthy food that’s what my hubs will eat! I’m sure it goes for most of your husbands too. We women often set the tone.
I want to arm you with some tips that helped me so much and have shifted my mindset when it comes to creating a healthy living as a busy mom. These tips have saved me time, money, stress and have helped me live out a healthy lifestyle.
I hope they help you as much as they’ve helped me!
1. Plan ahead-
I feel like you’re all looking at me going, “Yeah, I’ve heard that a thousand times!” Ok, well my question then is are you practicing it? It’s so easy to hear something but not actually put it into action. PLANNING, will literally change your life! Imagine what it would look like if you didn’t plan out your meals for the week. When it’s time to eat breakfast lunch or dinner, instead of feeling prepared and able to pull something out of the fridge you scramble last minute to throw something together. It’s not that healthy, maybe it ends up being takeout, a trip to the grocery store where you spend more money, or eating cereal for dinner. The point is you end up frazzled, not well fed and having spent more money than you wanted. Not cool, right?! So what if you took 30 minutes each week and planned your meals. 30 minutes! That’s it. You plan out breakfast, lunch and dinner and snacks if you need them. You take your list to the grocery store and you get everything you need. You then take an hour or two and prep one day. Wouldn’t that make life SO much easier? I know it does for me. We all know what happens to kids when 5 O’Clock rolls around…they turn into hungry hippos and the last thing any mom wants to do is try to come up with some healthy meal amidst whining and crying.
Planning also comes into play for exercise. If you don’t plan it into your schedule the likelihood of it happening is slim to none. Penciling in when you’re going to get some activity into your day is crucial for actually seeing it happen. Right down what your going to do, and tell someone. You’re so much more likely to actually do it if someone else knows.
Planning your life as a family in general. Do you ever feel like your kids are in too many activities, and you’re just running around with your head cut off? A lot of times it might seem necessary to have your kids in every activity but really it might not be. Both my hubs and I have realized we don’t want to live a taxi service lifestyle. I definitely want my kids involved in sports but I also don’t want to feel stressed out all the time, overwhelmed and not having any family time. For each family it will look different, but I challenge you to take an inventory of all your extracurricular activities. Maybe one activity per season is doable but is three? Think about what seems manageable and enjoyable for your family. Every situation is different so do what feels best for you and your family
2. Drink a smoothie a day-
This one might seem odd but it literally has changed my life. You might be thinking why a smoothie? Well, for one it’s easy. I can prep all my smoothie ingredients, have them in the freezer or fridge and then just pop them in the blender in the morning. Easy peasy! Then I can take it with me on the go to work, dropping off the kids etc. I love knowing that I’m getting a nutrient dense breakfast but on the go. It’s one less meal to have to think about making beforehand too. I make a smoothie for my hubs and I every morning and then in the summer months I make them for my girls for lunch. I wrote and entire smoothie blog post all about what I put in my smoothies and why. I even have recipes to my favorite smoothies. This isn’t just a sugar smoothie, it’s full of healthy fats, fiber, protein and veggies. You’ll be full until lunch and satisfied. Check out the blog post here! Also, if you want to make it even easier for yourself, you can subscribe to Smoothie Box! It’s an all organic smoothie box that takes the guesswork out of making health smoothies. The smoothies come in prepackaged bags and all you have to do is add it to a blender with liquid and blend away. Check out Smoothie Box here!
3. Wake up before your kids-
Another serious game changer. I used to not wake up before my kids and really made my days so much harder. Instead of feeling prepped and ready for the day, I felt like I was thrown into the fire without any protection. Ok, a little extreme but you get what I’m saying. When I give myself to have a slow morning and do something for me right away my whole day goes better. I have more patience for my kids, I’m able to think a little more clearly and just make better decisions which in the end always leads to a healthier life. For me it’s getting up and having some quiet time reading, listening to a podcast or working out. Then I’m able to get breakfast on the table for my kids, make my smoothies and even throw in a load of laundry. Things just flow so much smoother when I allow myself a little “me” time before the kiddos come on the scene. Even if it’s only 30 minutes I challenge you to get up just a little earlier. I promise it will make such a difference in your day!
4. Shop online-
I know this might sound counterintuitive to going green but hear me out. A lot of the companies I support are small companies trying to make it in this big world. Not only does shopping online save me a lot of time as a busy mom but it also gives me a chance to support smaller companies I might not. For instance I love shopping on Etsy! It’s one of my favorites for finding thoughtful and unique gifts for friends and family. I also buy online from a lot of local Seattle companies. I live an hour south of Seattle so being able to still support some of my favorite jewelers is awesome. I also get my pastured meat from a small company in California. I love knowing the quality is amazing but that they ship directly to me! Saves this mama so much time. A few other stores I love shopping at are Vitacost for healthy organic dry goods- I have a whole blog post on my favorites here. I also love Amazon for convenience- and all the moms said AMEN! I have a whole Amazon blog post on all my favorites I get from them here. Just having things delivered when living out a healthy lifestyle helps me a ton. I’m able to spend more time making a decent meal for my family, spending time outdoors and just not stressing about driving here and there. They even have so many grocery delivery services now where you can order online and then have it delivered to your house! Take a little off your plate and start living out your healthy life, instead of feeling like you’re running around with your head cut off to 10 different stores.
5. Make it a family activity-
It’s easy to want to compartmentalize everything but unfortunately that just isn’t reality once you have kids. An example of this is when I want to exercise. I’ve realized sometimes it means including my girls. Whether that’s playing with them outside, going for a walk as a family or even a bike ride. It might not look like an hour at the gym. My brother and sister in law are a perfect example of this. They have 5 kids- yes I said 5! They had twin girls last year. But guess what? It didn’t stop them from getting working out. They were creative in making it a family activity. They would put the twins in a double bob stroller, walk and run with them, while the other girls would ride their bikes or scooter. They also set up a garage gym, so they didn’t have to go anywhere to get in a workout. They saved time by doing this and were able to show their kids the importance in staying active. Same thing when it comes to being in the kitchen. I got my 5 year old a kid safe knife set so she can help me when I’m in the kitchen. Instead of having me make meals by myself she can now get involved. The more involved she is in preparing the food the more she learns about how real food is made. When you make things a family affair you may have to get a little creative but I promise it will be worth it!
6. Don’t compare-
Sounds easier said then done. Trust me I get it but it’s so worth it. How many times are you scrolling through Instagram and you see a photo of a someone with a picture perfect life and you start thinking I can’t live that way. Looks impossible. They’re so healthy, look at the meals they make, wow they’re house is always clean and they have the perfect body. Come on, we’ve all been there. But what you might not have seen is that the person you’re comparing yourself actually is single, not married and has no children. Completely opposite of your life. If you need to stop unfollowing people in order to get a right mindset, do it! Your life is amazing and awesome and if you truly don’t feel like it is, then do something about it. Start implementing one of these tips today and I know you’ll see a difference within the month. Small changes add up over time. I have learned to embrace my life, flaws and all. I love my kids and hubs and the messy life we’ve created. It’s not perfect but that’s ok, we’re human. No one has the picture perfect life we think they do. Stop comparing and start loving your own life! Healthy living doesn’t look the same for everyone.
7. Say NO-
This one is so good and needed more than ever in our society! Have you ever felt like you literally are a taxi service for your kids? Or that you are constantly stressed out? Maybe you have to stay up so late every night just to get all the things done. It could be that every weekend you have some sort of family function, birthday party, or sporting event to go to. Sound familiar? I know I’ve been there. I’ve said yes to so many things that I literally end up running myself into the ground and getting sick. Do you know it’s ok to say no? Yes, you can say no and your friends won’t hate you(I mean if they do, are they even your friends), you’ll still have a life and you’ll still have fun. When you say no to things it puts you in control of your life instead of someone else. I find when we say no, we aren’t rushing around but enjoying one another’s company, playing outside more and just being together as a family. When your gone all the time it doesn’t lend itself to a healthy lifestyle. You won’t have time to prep food, cook, or even have a normal routine. They say that adults thrive off of routine as much as children do. When you can get in a rhythm of life your body thanks you. When I know I’m home for the week I can get my workout in, make healthy meals, eat together as a family- all things that breath health into my life. Sometimes it might be hard saying no to all the invitations but at the end of the day you’re really saying yes to your health!
Do you implement any of these tips into your life? What tips have helped you as a busy mom live a healthier life?
NEVER MISS AN EPISODE
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June’s natural beauty box review is here! Sharing about all my favorite natural beauty boxes in clean beauty. With summer approaching we are seeing some fun products for the warmer months, plus some serious savings! Don’t miss out- keep checking back to get the latest as these boxes continue to rollout for the month of June.
If you haven’t tried Agent Nateur then your in for a treat!
Agent Nateur holi(Body) Ageless Body Serum-This body serum is unlike any body serum you’ve used in the past. It is filled with superpower ingredients from argan, jojoba, rosehip, rose, sandalwood and so many more. It doesn’t feel greasy when applied! I repeat doesn’t feel greasy when applied. Not only does it help to restore moisture balance but it also helps to tone and firm the skin with caffeine and theobromine. I love that the scent isn’t too powerful. You get notes of rose mainly with hints of sandalwood mixed in. Your skin will feel all kinds of soft when using this after you shower!
Sidekick: Agent Nateur holi(oil) Youth Serum- This frosted bottle contains a rich oil that smells like roses. Not only does it help smooth skin and wrinkles but it also is extremely hydrating. It doesn’t feel greasy at all and seeps into your skin, giving your face a radiance. My skin looked restored. I used this after several sleepless nights and it literally brought the life back into my skin. It’s true to it’s name- giving you your youthful skin back! There isn’t a long list of ingredients but the ones that are in there are effective. I also love using this before makeup. My foundation glides on. Bonus- my husband can use it too!
Best part is you can get this fabulous box right now for such a steal! This box is valued at $153 but you can snag it for $42.95. This really is such stellar box. Hop on it now if you’re thinking of getting it. Get Beauty Heroes June Discovery here!
5YINA Lucent Hydrolat- I was excited to see this brand in the Boxwalla box for June! I’ve sampled a few of their products and I’ve always been impressed. I love that they combine the power of Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern medicine. Not only do they have training in Traditional Chinese Medicine but also one of the founders Ervina Wu, also received her PhD in TCM Dermatology in Zhejiang Chinese Medical University in Hangzhou & is one of only 50 registered TCM dermatologists in the U.S! Pretty impressive.
The 5YINA Lucent Hydrolat is a refreshing mist. It contains aloe, cucumber distillates, witch hazel, highest grade matcha, lotus leaves and honeysuckle to name a few. Not only does this mist hydrate but it also helps to calm inflammation and overall soothe the skin. A great mist to spray right before you apply your serums or oils or even throughout the day as a refresher.
5YINA Lucent Summer Beauty Oil- This luxurious beauty oil feels rich on the skin and sinks right in. Your skin feels like it’s getting lathered in something extravagant! Although, it feels rich to me it doesn’t leave your skin feeling oily or greasy. It’s filled with a ton of herbs that really target specific skincare conditions. It also included an array of antioxidants, vitamins and active phytonutrients. I love that it acts similar to a serum, penetrating deeper than a traditional oil, yet still hydrating your skin as an oil would. I apply this in the morning and at night.
This box is perfect for the summer months when your skin could use some r&r from all the sun exposure. The box is valued at $190, but you can get it right now for $49.95! Such a great box and the price is amazing! Snag the The Boxwalla Box here!
The Clean Beauty Box: Sacred Sky
June/July’s Clean Beauty Box is one for the books!
I was SO excited to see the products in this month’s Clean Beauty Box! I had tried a few of the products from Moss and AMBAR and couldn’t wait to dive into more of their products. Moss and AMBAR actually come from the same mastermind and creator, Celestyna Higgins. Moss was first created after Celestyna suffered from acne in her teen years and even as an adult. As a physicist she knew how to create effective products that not only were clean but powerful. Her products are known to fight acne as well as minimize aging.
AMBAR is similar in that it still provides the same effective and clean products but in a simple approach. You can tell the passion and love for skincare come through in both of these products.
Moss Potentci- This is an intensive dermal repair hydrating emulsion. This is a very unique product for me. It’s meant to protect the skin with antioxidants, as well as repair it. It is a milky consistency. Offering more hydration than just your typical serum. It helps to balance the skin as well. The powerful antioxidants not only help firm but protect from free radicals. It doesn’t stop there. The formula is also filled with peptides, and niacinamide. Helping reduce acne scars, and create smoothness. I applied it after cleansing before my oils. It’s not hydrating enough for me to wear alone. I also needed an additional oil or cream. I used it day and night. I love the scent. It is light with notes of rosemary and white sage. I loved how my skin felt after using the product. It felt smooth and even. I’m excited to keep using it to see results!
AMBAR Micellar Cleansing Essence- I’ve actually had the pleasure of using this product before! I was elated to see it in this month’s box. If you aren’t familiar with Micellar cleansing it’s essentially a cleanser and toner in one. You don’t need to rinse after swiping this over your face. It helps to remove the daily grime and makeup. There are so many ways to use this product. I personally love using it as my second step in my cleansing routine. After cleansing I like to then take the micellar essence and wipe it all over my face. I love making sure I remove every last bit of dirt and makeup from the day. It also helps to soothe and calm my skin. With calming rose in it that feels both refreshing and calming. Trust me, you will become addicted!
This box is SO special! I would hop on it now if you’re thinking of getting it. This is definitely a skincare lover’s box. Such thoughtfully curated product for such a great price! Get The Clean Beauty Box for June here!
*Check back as more Natural Beauty Boxes roll out for the month of June!
So excited to share with you my Natural Nighttime Skincare Routine. I find people often aren’t sure what a beauty routine is or where to even start. Or perhaps they think they have a routine, yet instead it looks a little more chaotic. In this post, I want to help you create a nighttime beauty routine that you not only love but that works for you. I will also be sharing some of my staples in my beauty routine and how they create the base of it. If it’s one thing I’ve learned since being in the beauty industry for over 14 years it’s that a beauty routine should not be ignored.
Welcome to the #betterforyoucrew! I’ve teamed up with my girls Lisa from This Organic Girl, Sarah from Whoorl, Kate from Root & Revel, Caroline from Olive You Whole and Kristina from Love & Zest to highlight green, yet effective food, beauty and lifestyle products that are rocking our natural mama worlds. This series will publish the last week of every month so check back for the latest. You can also search #betterforyoucrew on our blogs and Instagram to access the entire series. Wanna join in? Tag #betterforyoucrew on social with your picks. We want to see your faves too! For last month’s post on Favorite kitchen gadgets- check it out here.
Step 1- Identify What You Need
In essence, the goal is to find the products that speak to you, work with you and that you love. The end result is creating a nighttime beauty routine that is not only functional but one you enjoy.
For example, some people aren’t into having 7 skincare products. They just want 3 that really work. On the other hand, some love their skincare routine and couldn’t go without one of their beloved products.
Best Natural and Organic Night time Skincare Routine
The point? Do you! Create a nighttime beauty routine that feels right for you, not someone else. After all, I truly believe that’s what holds up many people in having a routine at all. They feel overwhelmed and don’t know where to start. Know what you need, find it and use it. Your body will thank you and so will your subconscious as you take a little time each day just for you.
Step 2- Find Your Favorites & Staples
If you’re wondering how to find those products think about what you always use everyday or what you find you want to use but might not have. Maybe you have really dry skin and to not have a moisturizer would be the end of the world for you. Find what you need and works for you.
Step 3- Commit To Your Routine
Once you know what you need and find the products you love, then it’s time to commit to your routine. Often people complain about beauty results because they aren’t consistent with their routine. The point of finding products you need and love is your more likely to stick with them, because you love using them and they make you feel good.
When you’re consistent with your routine, your skin will show it.
Night Routine-
My nighttime routine is all about restoring and relaxing. At night I really like to take more time and savor my beauty routine. It may sound funny but for me taking 10 minutes for myself at night really helps me mentally process the day and relaxes me. Especially as a mom it’s easy to go throughout the day not really doing anything for yourself. This little act really creates a space to ease my mind. I find myself looking forward to it every night. Restoring my skin is an important part of my night routine. After being in the elements during the day I like to give it the nutrients it needs to help restore it. That being said, morning and nighttime skincare routines look different usually. I’m going to give a brief explanation of products you could use for your morning or nighttime skincare to get you familiar with your options.
Cleansers- A cleanser is meant to be the first step in your skincare routine. It helps to get rid of dirt, debris and get rid of makeup from the day. Of course there are many cleansers to choose from depending on your skin type. Some people like to double cleanse, others not so much. Whatever method or cleanser you choose just make sure that it adequately cleans your skin and you’re not left with any residue. I have a full blog post with all my favorites. Check it out!
Toner/Hydrosol- These terms are used interchangeably to describe a mist that you spray over your skin post cleansing. A true hydrosol contains plant actives. Some people will spray the mist directly on their skin and press in with their hands, others will spray on a cotton round and apply it in on their skin. Either way, a toner or hydrosol helps to calm skin, hydrate, keep pores open for serums/oil and specific skin treatments. A toner helps to also get rid of any oil or bits left from the cleanser, as well as balance the ph of skin.
Treatments- Treatments for the skin can range from anti-aging treatments, redness reducing treatments, hyper pigmentation targeting, and acne treatments. Theses are going to be filled with active ingredients that are really going to perform. Think antioxidants! It really depends on what result you’re looking for in your skin. These aren’t going to necessarily hydrate your skin. Most are made out of water or aloe, some contain oil, but few. They penetrate the skin quickly and feel almost like a gel. They absorb into your skin, opposed to creams that generally sit on top of your skin. The absorption happens easier because serums are smaller in molecular size and easier to penetrate the skin and deliver nutrients. Serums happen after toning or hydrosol when skin’s pores are still open. I have a full blog post on all my favorite serums for the skin here!
Oils- After a serum, now it’s time for an oil. There has been a resurgence of oils in the last 5 years. People used to be afraid of them, but now they are learning how hydrating and restorative they can be for the skin. Just remember not every oil is created equal. Some are comedogenic and can actually clog your pores or cause you to breakout. For example, coconut oil is comedogenic and can actually cause many people to breakout. If you’re not sure about the comedogenic rating look it up or ask the formulator. Oils are very hydrating and can keep the moisture intact for a long time. A great pick for those with dry skin.
Skin Creams/Lotions- Many people aren’t sure what the difference is between an oil, a cream and a lotion. Allow me to explain. An oil is just that- just an oil- nothing added. A cream has a mix of water and oil, but more oil than water and then a lotion is also a mixture of water and oil but the higher percentage is water- which makes it thinner. Creams are great at protecting the skin, especially after applying an oil and if you need additional moisture. I like doing them at night. A lotion is good for in the morning when you want some hydration but don’t want to be too greasy from an oil.
Balms- Balms are another product that really has been popping up all over in the skincare industry over the last two years. Balms are primarily used for intense hydration and protection. In the winter they are great for protecting skin from wind and cold. They are more concentrated than a lotion or cream. A lot of formulators like them because they are usually waterless and therefore don’t need preservatives to keep them fresh. A little goes a long way with a balm- so you don’t need as much as you would with a lotion or cream.
Eye Cream/Oil- Eye products come in a variety of formulas. From creams to oils and even some that are more like a serum. I prefer an oil or serum myself because I suffer from milia. Tiny hard white cysts under the skin. They can form when keratin gets trapped under the skin. I try and stay away from heavy products for the eyes as I’ve noticed they can lead to more. If your under eye area is really dry then you would want to opt for a heavier eye cream or nourishing oil. Some eye oils or serums I’ve found to be oilier than others. I have a full blog post coming on my faves that I’ve been working on forever! I like mine to absorb fairly quickly too.
Exfoliants- Exfoliants are so crucial to effective skincare- can’t recommend them enough! If your skin is dead on top, whatever products you put on top of your skin aren’t going to be able to penetrate and perform. There are many different types of exfoliants. From mechanical, enzyme and chemical exfoliants. Mechanical exfoliants use some sort of manual grain or seeds to manually remove the dead skin. Enzyme exfoliants is similar to chemical exfoliation but much gentler. It breaks down the glue that holds together dead skin. It uses active ingredients like papain, papaya and pineapple to slough off the dead skin. Enzyme exfoliation is great for someone with sensitive skin. There’s no actual manual exfoliant involved. Another type is chemical exfoliation. Chemical exfoliation is stronger than enzyme exfoliation. It uses Alpha Hydroxy Acids(AHA’s) or Beta Hydroxy Acids(BHA’s). AHA’s are not as strong as BHA’s. A lot of peels are considered chemical exfoliants. Chemical exfoliants are great for those with oily skin and acne.
Masks- Love a good mask! Masks are like giving your skin a good shot of nutrients at once. Similar to drinking a really nutrient dense green juice for your body. There are so many benefits to masking. From detoxification, unclog pores, glowing skin, minimizing redness, hydration- the list goes on! It’s great to have different masks for different seasons of life too. In the winter you may need a hydrating mask more. In the summer, a detoxification mask- each season can bring a new set of skincare challenges. Some masks are quick and are just meant to give your skin a glow in 5 minutes before a big event or date.
Ok, now that you’ve just been schooled on all skincare products, let’s break down what you actually need in your skincare routine.
Establish your nighttime skincare routine using products you love.
So it really depends on what you want your outcome to be. Do you want your skin to just feel clean, and hydrated? Maybe you’re not into all the extras but just want a nighttime skincare routine that meets the basic needs and that’s it. Or maybe you want to fade hyper pigmentation, minimize redness and increase collagen- ok then you’re probably going to need a few more products!
Think about your end goal when it comes to your skin and that will help guide you to the products you need.
Cleanse- I cleanse my skin with one cleanser typically. I used to oil cleanse, but I’ve found I really love a cleanser that does it all in one step and that I can remove easily with just water and not a washcloth. A couple of my favorite cleansers in green beauty that do that are- OSEA Ocean Cleanser, an amazing cleanser that leaves my skin feeling balanced, not stripped, removes all my makeup and rinses off easily with water. I also love Marie Veronique’s Cleansing Oil. It acts like an oil cleanser but emulsifies(suds up) ever so slightly. It’s great! It also removes all my eye makeup and everything easily and rinses off with water.
Toner/Hydrosol- I use the same toner for my skin at night that I do in the morning generally. Unless I’m testing out several at once. My top pick would be Maya Chia’s the Optimist!
Exfoliant- Next I will exfoliate if I need too. I generally exfoliate twice a week. People can over exfoliate, creating disruptions to their natural ph. I love Josh Rosebrook’s Active Enzyme Exfoliant, and Laurel’s Honey Berry Enzyme Mask. The Active Enzyme Exfoliant includes manual exfoliants using walnut shells and it incorporates enzymes as well. The Honey Berry Enzyme Mask is great for those with sensitive skin as it uses enzymes to exfoliate.
Treatment/Serum- Next I will apply a treatment or serum. For me this is usually my True Botanical’s Cellular Repair Serum and Antioxidant Booster. These two have literally helped change my skin and given me tangible results! The Cellular Repair Serum goes past the outer most layer of the skin to really get in and provide all the nutrients the skin needs. The Antioxidant Booster is a powder and isn’t activated until you mix it with a liquid. I love this because then you are getting the most potent and active ingredients right away! Most antioxidant treatments are liquid and are not as effective since they’ve already been activated. I apply my Cellular Repair Serum first. Then I mix my Antioxidant Booster with my oil. This helps the Antioxidant Booster to absorb better into the skin, compared to mixing it with the Cellular Repair Serum.
Oil- Now time for an oil! I have been using True Botanical’s Calm Serum since being pregnant, it is completely pregnancy safe.
Eye Cream/Serum- Next I apply my eye serum or eye cream. I’ve been using Odacite’s B+S Eye Serum for a while and love it! It isn’t super oily, absorbs nicely and my eyes look refreshed and revived in the morning. Can’t recommend it enough.
Lips- Ok, last but not least I apply Odacite’s Lip Serum. I love this lip serum! It helps to hydrate, minimize fine lines on the lips and plump. I love applying as my last step in my skincare routine. My lip’s nightly nightcap!
That sums up my nighttime skincare routine! Now it’s time to create your own. I’ve created this free download for you to be able to see what products work for different skin types. I have something for sensitive, dry/normal, and combination/oily. Click the photo below to download!
Also, don’t forget to check my other natural lifestyle bloggers Natural Nighttime Skincare Routines below:
