FTC Disclaimer: The Yoga Body Hip Opening Flow DVD mentioned in this post was sent to me by Stacy McCarthy, free of charge. I was not paid to write this review. The opinions in this post are my own thoughts and were not bought. Links to Amazon are affiliate links, should you want to shop through my affiliate link and help keep Raw Juice Girl blogging.

As I mentioned in my Shame on Me post, I’ve been neglecting yoga – to the point that I’m stressed and stiff. I need yoga in my life to ground me. It calms me. Sooths me. Makes life’s stresses melt away.

And of the various yoga videos I’ve tried, Stacy McCarthy has become my favorite. I love the way she teaches. Her voice – and the music – is so calming.

She’s a very positive person and is just delightful to practice yoga with! It’s just a DVD after all, but Stacy has a way of making you feel as if you’re in the room with her. It’s awesomeness.

This morning, I woke up with pep in my step and knew it was the day designated to return to my yoga practice – with all my heart, body, mind, and soul!

I rolled out my pink Aurorae Yoga Mat, tossed my Aurorae slip-free rosin bag on the mat, grabbed my laptop and a cold water bottle from the fridge. I was set to go!

Stacy has sent me three yoga DVD’s so far:

Yoga Body: Lean & Defined Total Body Workout

Yoga Body: Hip Opening Flow

Busy Mom Yoga – Core & More

That’s a pretty awesome selection right there. How can a girl choose?!

Well, I’ve already practiced using the Yoga Body: Lean & Defined Total Body Workout – numerous times. The Busy Mom Yoga speaks to me because I definitely need to strengthen my core and hey, it’s always great if we can save a few minutes, eh?

But…

I chose Yoga Body: Hip Opening Flow this morning. My hips are definitely tight and since it’s been so long since I’ve practiced yoga, I knew this would be a good place to start.

My hips have always been tight. I was never one of those youngin’s who could plop down into the splits.This is an area I really need to work on. I’m not saying I’ll ever be able to do the splits, but open hips sounds nice.

This is how the screen looks when Yoga Body: Hip Opening Flow comes up on your computer (or TV). 

I’ll admit, I started to give up half-way through the DVD – not because it’s so difficult it’s impossible or anything, but just because it’s been so long since I practiced yoga and I’ve allowed myself to get so stiff.

But I stuck it out.

When it came time for poses I couldn’t follow through with, I just rested in child’s pose until I could move on. I think I skipped two poses.

Let me tell you, the yoga poses Stacy teaches in this DVD are absolutely hip opening – you feel it for sure!

It’s a nice feel, though. The long, slow stretches are telling the hips to open and they work beautifully.

I couldn’t be more pleased with this video. I absolutely enjoyed it!

Before I knew it, the 45 minutes were up – and I was lost in shavasana.

I had forgotten how good shavasana feels. It’s such a peaceful feeling. It’s also a feeling of accomplishment and great joy!

I’m so happy with the DVD and I will be using it ‘till it’s worn out, I assure you.

Bonus Mini Maintenance Practice!

Stacy included a mini maintenance practice at the end of the Hip Opening Flow because she says it’s “better to do a mini practice regularly (only takes a few minutes!) than to do a lengthy practice once a week.”

Great advice, Stacy!

I’m going to be following that advice. I’m tired of being stiff! 

A HUGE thank-you to Stacy for her generosity. That DVD will NOT collect dust, promise!

Have you ever practiced yoga using Stacy McCarthy’s DVD’s? What did you think? So far, I’ve had the privilege to try out two – and it’s an A+ on both!

And…

Don’t forget to enter my SWEET GIVEAWAY!!!!

There will be FOUR winners!!!

Yep, that’s right! My husband can make yumilicious meals – I am SO lucky!

Friday, September 9th was our one-year wedding anniversary, and the night before, he peeled and sliced a ginormous cucumber, chopped two homegrown tomatoes (that we bought from a local vendor), sliced about a third (or so) of a big onion, and then put a whole bottle of Italian dressing in the bowl and stirred it all together. Oh, and he added some water (about half the dressing bottle full).

He popped the lid on the bowl and put it in the fridge so the flavors could marry overnight. YUM-O!

I know what you’re thinking: a WHOLE bottle of processed dressing?!

But hey, who can complain when their husband loves veggies AND whips up a flavorful salad?! Not I, says Raw Juice Girl, not I! LOL!

If you’re interested in the overnight salad recipe my husband made, you can see it at Mainline Gardening: Overnight Salad – Made By My Husband.

The Night Before

We got the tomatoes homegrown from a local vendor, using my eco-friendly Bite bag (which I reviewed HERE).

He also thawed some beef and pork steaks and hot dogs and made his own marinade concoction.

I busied myself making old-fashioned potato salad and (hand-grated!) cole slaw. I also made a fresh pitcher of tea (black tea bags mixed with green tea bags). Delish!

Next Day, Our Anniversary: Sept. 9th!

I got busy slicing red, yellow, and orange bell pepper + onion to get ‘em ready for grillin’!

SO Pretty—the Colors!

On to the Grill!!

And…. on to the table!!!

Set for four – we had a couple of guests!

As you can see from the table setting, I love old-fashioned stuff and flowers are my favorite thing in the whole world. Well, maybe chocolate and caramel are my favorite things, but you know…

Anyway…

Our anniversary dinner was a success. But even more important than the tasty meal, was spending the day with a true sweetheart – my soul mate. I have the BESTEST husband ever!!

I’m a happy girl!

Don’t forget to enter my SWEET GIVEAWAY!!!!

FTC Disclaimer: I’ve been buying the plastic bowl/cup covers I talk about in this post with my own money for quite some time now. I’ve never been sent any to review. I’m just sharing tips with you. The PB Free NuttZo WAS sent to me for review. The links to Amazon are affiliate links, should you want to shop and help keep Raw Juice Girl’s blog alive and well. 

Hi, everyone! How are y’all? Have you been getting your daily smoothies in? Or raw juices? How about healthy Omega 3? Protein? Nut butter? Green tea?

Have I got the smoothie for you!

I love smoothies, as you know, and I love changing things up and trying new concoctions. I love the various nutrients, vitamins, and goodies I get when I drink a smoothie. And I love how they’re thick, creamy, delicious, and filling – can’t beat a smoothie for a quick, nutritious snack or meal!

Well, maybe Greek yogurt, but… Today I’m talking smoothies.

Right? Right!

Here’s a photo of the finished PB Free NuttZo-Banana Smoothie. It was decadent, let me tell ya! Yum!

Bubbly Banana!

PF NuttZo = YUMILICIOUS!!!!

Cutesy, Useful Bowl/Cup Covers

I’ve been using bowl/cup covers for a while now. As pictured above, these covers resemble a shower cap and have elastic so they fit tightly over your bowl, cup, or glass. Each package comes with one that is big enough to cover a plate! I love that one.

But there’s also a few that are for small bowls, cups, or glasses.

I use them ALL the time. They’re washable and reusable and one of the ways I count myself an eco-friendly kind of gal.

Do you use them? Have you ever heard of them?

I ended up drinking my entire smoothie at once but should you want to make a double batch or just end up with way more than you want to drink at once, these bowl/cup covers are magic! Cover your cup or glass with one that’s size-appropriate and seal the goodness in until the next day.

Saving a smoothie in the fridge “for hard times” is a great way to make sure you have something filling and nutritious that you can grab when you’re on your way out the door or it’s just one of those chaotic days that absorb all your time and energy.

And… now for the recipe!

PF NuttZo-Banana Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 cold banana, peeled and broken into chunks
• 4 ice cubes
• 3/4 cup tea (I used black/green mixture.)
• 2 TBSP PF NuttZo (details HERE)

Directions:

Add ingredients to blender.

In this order, if you have the buttons on your blender:

1. crush ice
2. blend
3. liquify

It makes for a YUM-O smoothie, in my opinion.

Watch out for upcoming, in-depth reviews of NuttZo AND PF NuttZo – I’m LOVING ‘em!

Have you had your smoothie today? What about NuttZo? Have you ever tried it? It’s addictive, I tell you – there’s NOTHING like it! Talk to me, people!

Disclaimer: I was not paid to write this post. I bought the four-pack of YoCrunch (Blueberry) Parfait with my own money and love it so much, I decided to share my love for it with y’all. The link to their site is not an affiliate link. I just genuinely love the product and wanted y’all to know about it.

Hi, y’all!

Did you enjoy my fruity breakfast post? Have you entered my amazing giveaway yet? No? Why not? This is an awesome opportunity! There will be FOUR winners. Hurry, get your entries in now: Enter HERE!

I’m going to be posting what my husband made for our anniversary dinner soon but here’s a sneak peek of the salad he made. I just posted it over at Mainline Gardening. Check it out: Overnight Salad – Made By My Husband!

And now on to Greek yogurt – I adore it. It’s thick, creamy, delicious, filling, and just plain GOOD! It’s also good for us.

It can be a quick snack on your way out the door or a small meal if you’re in a hurry.

Add it to smoothies, on top of fruit, top it with nuts – or nut butter. Possibilities are endless. You can add it to recipes, too!

The most recent Greek yogurt I picked up at the store is YoCrunch Greek Parfait.

Check out the YoCrunch Nutrition Page for more information.

I’m loving it!

Do you like Greek yogurt? Have you ever tried it? After trying it, I can’t go back to regular yogurt – it seems to runny for me. And Greek yogurt is so creamy, decadent, and filling…. I can’t look back!

How do you use your yogurt? In smoothies? Recipes? Or just plain out of the tub? What did you have for breakfast?

Hi, y’all!

Have you entered my SWEET giveaway yet? If not, why? Hurry, get your entries in. There’s LOTS of options!

Enter HERE!

Yesterday was my anniversary – and it was a WONDERFUL day filled with sweet blessings and all things love. I’m going to post about the meal he prepared for us soon – it included a SALAD!!!!   

I know, I know! A husband who cooks AND makes salad. I’m so lucky, huh?

I did eat the salad – which was totally delicious! – but I also ate meat, too. (Yep, Raw Juice Girl ate meat. I had posted a while back that I added eggs and meat back into my diet. I feel much better now.)

I took photos of the whole process, and the results, so I’m working on that post.

That post is soon to come.

But here’s what I had for breakfast this morning…

Fruit + Yogurt Bowl

Pear + Kiwi + Banana + Greek Yogurt = YUM!

Fruit Chopped + Dropped in a Bowl

With Greek Yogurt + Granola on Top!

Sooooooooooooo Good!!!!

What about you – do you like fruit + (Greek) yogurt bowls for breakfast or a snack? What’s your favorite fruit? What’s your favorite yogurt? Do share!

And….

Don’t forget to enter my giveaway!

Taking a day off… Today is my one-year wedding anniversary!

And…. Don’t forget to enter my giveaway – there’ll be FOUR WINNERS!!!

Remember I moderate comments so your entries won’t show up right away. I’ll be back Saturday to approve them. So make sure I have LOTS of entries waiting for me!  

FTC (Federal Trade Commission) Blog Disclaimer: NuNaturals sent a package of their products for my enjoyment. This package was free of charge. I was not paid to post for them or to write a review. Any opinions you read here are based on my own thoughts and have not been bought.

Hi, y’all!

As I recently promised in my Stevia Freebies post, here is your giveaway post!

But first I want to say I’m lovin’ my NuNaturals coffee cup (Thank you, Ron!) And I’m loving the sweet addition of both the powdered stevia and vanilla liquid stevia to my coffee. YUM-O!

There’s a chocolate liquid stevia I’m going to try as well – maybe I’ll remember in the morning?

It’s funny that I used to NEVER drink coffee. I mean, I was in my thirties before I’d even TRY it. I hated the smell. It made me SO sick. I hated to smell it brewing. People found that odd. Now, it’s pure Heaven when that aroma wafts through the house. Hello, morning!

Once I tasted it, though, it began to find its way into my belly on a daily basis. I’ve gone through periods where I’ve quit but I’ve always gone back. I love hazelnut in my coffee. And pumpkin spice coffee…. Oh, goodness. Caramel. Sweet caramel. It’s so good, it feels like a SIN! LOL

Okay, okay…. on to the giveaway. I know you’re dying to find out the rules.

One more thing… The country tin is part of a set I found at a thrift store the other day. I LOVE my bargain shopping. It’s part of my eco-friendly lifestyle: buy used products/clothes, reuse instead of buying new as often as possible! And that cute, country-ish tin makes a perfect home for my stevia packets!

What FOUR of you will win:

NuNaturals has graciously offered to give FOUR of Healing with (Raw) Juices readers….

1 box of  NuStevia Packets, 50 ct.

AND…

1 bottle of NuNaturals Vanilla Stevia Liquid, 2 oz.

(which I’ve previously blogged about HERE)

Contest limited to U.S. residents, ONLY to avoid costly shipping & International customs regulations.

To enter this contest, there’s only…

ONE Required Entry!!

Visit www.NuNaturals.com and let me know which products you’d most like to try – AND come back and leave a comment letting me know that you did. That’s it – easy peasy!

BUT… If you want to put in a little extra effort….

(and receive a LOT of extra entries – aka chances to win) keep reading…

Numerous ways to get extra entries!

20 ways total to enter this contest!!

Note: Don’t forget the above, one required entry.

2. For FIVE EXTRA ENTRIES, share this contest on your blog, linking back to this post. Leave FIVE SEPARATE COMMENTS to let me know you did. (Yep, you’ll really leave FIVE different comments for this so you’ll be able to get five extra entries. )

3. “Like” NuNaturals on Facebook. Then, come back here and leave a comment to let me know you did that – or that you already are.

4. “Like” Raw Juice Girl on Facebook. Leave a comment on this post saying you did -or that you already are.

5. Follow Healing with (Raw) Juices on Facebook’s Networked Blogs. Leave a comment on this post saying that you did – or do.

6. Do you use Twitter? Follow @RawJuiceGirl on Twitter. Comment on this post, saying you did – or do.

7. Follow @NuNaturals on Twitter. Leave a comment on this post that you did that.

8. Tweet about this contest and then leave a comment with your Twitter name. You can use this tweet (or your own, just be sure to include via @RawJuiceGirl @NuNaturals) – Then, leave a comment that you did – with your Twitter name or status link.

@NuNaturals @RawJuiceGirl are giving away (SWEET!) prizes to FOUR winners! Enter now!! (http://tinyurl.com/3v3pw3a) U.S. only Ends 9/22

FOR EVEN MORE ENTRIES: For tweets, Facebook shares, or Plurk you may share the contest up to 5 times a day, but each tweet/share must be 1-2 hours or so after the previous one. (Thanks so much for understanding my position of keeping things fair and square, y’all!)

9. Comment on this post: Sweet Stevia Review: NuNaturals NuStevia NoCarbs Blend, letting me know your thoughts and/or questions. Come back here and leave a comment so I know you did. If you’ve already commented on that post, just comment here letting me know you already have a comment there.

10. Comment on this recipe post where I made Inside-Out Coconut Peanut Butter Cups using NuNaturals products.  Come back here and leave a comment letting me know you did that. If you’ve already commented on that post, just comment here letting me know you already have a comment there.

11.Comment on the post where I made Averie’s Raw, Vegan Chia Seed Pudding using NuNaturals Stevia and let me know if you’ve ever tried chia seed pudding, or if you’d like to—or if you love/hate the chia texture. Then come back here and let me know you did that. If you’ve already commented on that post, just comment here letting me know you already have a comment there.

12. Subscribe to Healing with (Raw) Juices via e-mail (sign up here) – be sure to verify your subscription or this entry won’t count. Then comment and let me know you did – or that you already are.

13  Subscribe to Healing with (Raw) Juices via RSS (sign up here). Then leave a comment telling me you did – or that you are.

14. Subscribe to Raw Juice Girl’s newsletter (sign up here ). Then comment here and let me know you did - or that you already have.

15. Do you Plurk? Plurk about this contest and leave a comment with your Plurk URL.

16. Add me as a friend on Wellsphere . Leave a comment saying that you did- or do.

17. Add me as a friend on Give it to Me Raw. Leave a comment saying that you did- or that you are.

18. Subscribe to Raw Juice Girl’s YouTube channel. Leave a comment saying that you did- or that you are.

19. Are you a Stumbler? Stumble and review any post you want to–just leave the link to your SU review in (its own) comment.

20. Do you have a Digg account? Digg this post. Come back and leave a comment on this post with a link to your Digg post.

NOTE: Please leave a comment for each entry (tweet, plurk, etc.) because each comment will be counted as a number when I enter the total number of comments at Random.org once the contest ends.

Contest Deadline: Thursday, September 22, 2011

I’ll accept comments until midnight. (Central Time).

Random.org will be used to select the winner, who will be posted the next day.

That gives you TWO WEEKS to get your entries in! Hurry and spread the word.

The more entries you have, the higher your chances (FOUR of you!!) of winning this SWEET giveaway!!

Go tell all your friends and have FUN!!!!

Let the contest begin!!!

And don’t forget about the SPECIAL BONUS :

www.NuNaturals.com  has been very gracious and generous and have offered an amazing deal – group of deals, actually, for HWJ readers.

Check out this AWESOME tidbit of info, folks:

Message from NuNaturals: “This offer to your readers EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, ENDS SEPTEMBER 30, 2011.”

Receive a SPECIAL DISCOUNT of 15% on your TOTAL ORDER by entering this CODE : 

BLG930

And by ordering from www.nunaturals.com, you’ll ALSO receive FREE SHIPPING (in the Continental U.S.) on all orders totaling $35.00 and over, AFTER this special discount.

“This offer is EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, ENDS SEPTEMBER 30, 2011.”

FREE SAMPLES!

Get your FREE SAMPLES of NuStevia Packets! Just send a SELF-ADDRESSED, STAMPED #10 envelope to the following address:

NuNaturals, Inc.

2220 West 2nd Ave. #1

Eugene, OR 97402

Okay, go get your freebies and get your entries in. You have TWO WEEKS to work on your entries. This is a sweet prize for FOUR of you. Thanks so much to NuNaturals for their generosity!!!

Hi, y’all!

I went shopping today. And not just any shopping – whole foods shopping. Can I get a hurray?!

As I mentioned in my recent confessions post, I’ve been a bad, bad girl. I’ve let processed foods slip back into my diet (aka mouth). I’ve grown away from those every day raw juices, smoothies, and Greek yogurt snacks.

But no more!

I’m taking control of my health and life and am getting back on track. I’ve gained weight since being married. But I’m not the only one, I know. Just ask The Healthy Apron!

Nah, I won’t really blame my husband. I’m the one who put the food in my mouth. LOL!

It’s just that since being married, I think I’ve let my guard down and just eaten whatever I want, whenever I want, and have lost sight of my original health goals.

Believe me, it’s easy to get caught up in how juicy or creamy something tastes and just thinking “oh, I’ll get back on the wagon tomorrow” – knowing tomorrow might never come.

I’m not saying just give up all those on-a-whim treats. Those little moments and yummy tastes are the spice of life. I’m just saying I have to reign myself back in and get with the program! My own program!

Look at all the yummy produce!

Yep, our bicycles are parked in the kitchen. LOL! 

Whole Grain, All Natural Oats for chilly mornings!

Cashews ‘cause they’re SO yummy!  

Onions – I love ‘em raw or cooked!  

Bananas aka Nanners – for smoothies + snacks!

Broccoli + Carrots for nibbling!

Potatoes (aka taters) – love ‘em raw or cooked!

My long lost love, Greek yogurt!

Kiwi – SO juicy and delish!

Pears – crisp and delish!  

Avocados – you won’t BELIEVE

what they’re going in!  

Lemons & Limes – for tea and salad!

Grapefruits!

Purdy bell peppers! 

Cantaloupe – for snackin’ + smoothies!

Cucumbers – I could eat gazillions of ‘em!

So many bright and natural colors! 

I also bought some canned goods, tea, eggs, and meat (the husband loves meat and has shared the love with me – he’s a fantabulous cook and I’m spoiled!).

I’m excited to be getting back to more whole foods, my yoga practice, and living a more healthy lifestyle. As friends have called me in the past: healthatarian. LOL! 

So, what about you? Do you cram as many whole foods into your meals as you can? Have you been eating whatever is available just so you can make it through the day? It’s SO easy to fall into that rut. Do you judge others for falling into food and exercise ruts? Do you judge yourself?

If you’re in a rut, just start climbing out like I am. Purpose in your heart to make tomorrow different, even if it’s baby steps. Just start.

We must love ourselves, love whole foods, and enjoy life…

Are you on board? Talk to me, people!

And don’t forget the sweet freebies. You have until the 30th before your coupon code expires!

FTC (Federal Trade Commission) Blog Disclaimer: NuNaturals sent a package of their products for my enjoyment. This package was free of charge. I was not paid to post for them or to write a review. Any opinions you read here are based on my own thoughts and have not been bought.

Hi, y’all!

So, what’d you think of my Shame On Me post? Are you in the same boat? Or, have you won the battle and are standing on the mountaintop of pristine health and success?

As I mentioned in that post, NuNaturals has sent me some awesome stuff to review. I absolutely love their stevia. It’s great in oats, rice, tea, coffee, desserts, etc. Love it!

But I’m not the only recipient of their generosity – you’re in the cool, sweet club too!

Message from NuNaturals: “This offer to your readers EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, ENDS SEPTEMBER 30, 2011.”

Receive a SPECIAL DISCOUNT of 15% on your TOTAL ORDER by entering this CODE : 

BLG930

And by ordering from www.nunaturals.com, you’ll ALSO receive FREE SHIPPING (in the Continental U.S.) on all orders totaling $35.00 and over, AFTER this special discount.

“This offer is EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, ENDS SEPTEMBER 30, 2011.”

FREE SAMPLES!

Get your FREE SAMPLES of NuStevia Packets! Just send a SELF-ADDRESSED, STAMPED #10 envelope to the following address:

NuNaturals, Inc.

2220 West 2nd Ave. #1

Eugene, OR 97402

Be sure to take full advantage of the FREE SAMPLES offer, as well as the 15% SPECIAL DISCOUNT and FREE SHIPPING offers. This is an excellent opportunity to grab the reins to your health!

Get ready for a GIVEAWAY!!!!!!!!!!

I’ve been:

• neglecting yoga, letting it slide ‘till I’m stiff and stressed
• allowing processed foods back into my diet – um, mouth
• letting white sugar sweeten me up
• focusing on life’s chaos – instead of what’s most important

Join me as I:

• move back into my yoga practice, with confidence and grace
• incorporate more whole foods back into my diet
• begin to cut white sugar from my foods and drinks, replacing it (once again!) with stevia, honey, and other natural, healthful sweeteners
• find peace, hope, strength, and a harmonious balance in my life

And what is going to help me accomplish all this? Besides determination and desire to take my life back, Stacy McCarthy, Brendan Brazier, and NuNaturals are going to help me!

Check out the awesome stuff they’ve sent me for upcoming reviews:

What about you? Have you been so caught up with all that life throws your way ‘till you’ve lost sight of yourself and your health? Have you caved and eaten that donut? Or melted when that plate of processed food passed your nose’s path? We haven’t gone too far – we can take control of our life today!

And a great big thank-you to the sponsors!

P.S. Did you enjoy the Labor Day sale?

Hi, y’all! How’ve you been? I know I haven’t posted much but I promise, I’m working to change that!

Did you enjoy my Aurorae Yoga Denim Mat Sak Review? I sure hope so – ‘cause I’m loving it! It’s super cool to store/transport my yoga mat. Although I never really leave the house with it (I do yoga at home) it’s going to be awesome to use when/if I decide to go for a long bike ride in the park and want to take a yoga break!

I feel autumn’s cool breezes today, do you? I LOVE autumn – it just never lasts long enough, in my opinion. Here in Missouri, it seems to go straight from summer to winter without much of a true autumn transition. I remember autumn lasting a lot longer when I was a kid.

But what I really want to talk to you about today is the Labor Day sale going on at E3Live.com!

You can save 15% off your whole order using coupon code:

LABORDAY2011

Offer good through September 5th.

If you’ve been a reader for a while, you might remember that I wrote a couple of in-depth reviews of the following products:

Klamath Lake Blue-Green Algae E3Live Review

E3Live Review: BrainOn

They now even have E3Live products for moms and babies!

And we can’t forget our pets. I think I’ll have to introduce Gingersnap to E3Live for pets!

Hurry, so you can save 15% off your whole order using coupon code:

LABORDAY2011

Offer good through September 5th. Just visit: www.E3Live.com and get shopping!

Disclaimer: Aurorae Yoga sent the products mentioned in this post for free. I did not pay for them. I have not been paid to write this review.

Now, on to the good stuff!

A HUGE thank-you to Aurorae Yoga for their generosity. I really appreciate the opportunity to try out and review their products.

Check out the goodies I’ve reviewed so far from this awesome company:

Aurorae Yoga Mat

Aurorae Yoga Sport Sweat Towel

Aurorae Yoga Slip-Free Rosin Bag

Now, let’s take a look at the  Aurorae Yoga Mat Sak, shall we?

Normally, I give a glimpse about the company but since I’ve already covered that (read all about it here), we’re jumping right into the review itself.

I love this bag not only because it’s jean material, but because it has a cool design, is easy to carry around, has pockets for goodies and personal items.

Big Strap For Easy Transport!

Quick & Easy Drawstring!

Cool Pocket For Storing Personal Items!

All the cool info:

Yoga Denim Sak by Aurorae, 8.6 ounce 100 percent Premium Ring Spun Cotton Denim washed the way you like your favorite jeans.

Vintage Wash – Stone washed, worn and broken in like your old favorite pair of jeans. Midnight Wash – Power Washed to a soft hand to maintain a deep rich indigo color.

Universal Denim fabric that goes with everything and all colors.

Light to carry and Machine washable, Extra long 28 inches in length that will fit most size yoga mats with room to spare.

Extra Wide 8.3 inch diameter that will fit your mat plus accessories with easy access and drawstring closure.

Large cargo pocket with Velcro Flap to carry all your accessories plus outer easy entry cell phone pocket.

Zip pocket to hold your valuables with no worry of falling out.

Adjustable Shoulder Strap to make it easy to carry.

There are no other Yoga Bags of this quality made of denim in the market, Our Aurorae Logo is Embroidered on the the Sak which is our Symbol of Quality and great service.

Aurorae Yoga Sak a Practical approach with a sense of Fashion

Remember “It’s Your Yoga” Relax, Enjoy and Namaste

Your Friends at Aurorae

I know, now you really want an Aurorae Yoga Mat Sak, don’t ya? Join the cool kids – order one today!

Free shipping on purchases of $25.00 or more!

Do you practice yoga? Do you already have a bag to transport (or store) your yoga mat in? What do you think of the Aurorae Yoga Mat Sak? Let’s talk! 

Hi, y’all! Hope you’re all doing fantabulous these days. I know I’ve been MIA for quite a while now but am making my way back.

I’m working hard to revamp my writing career – and all while updating my name.

You’ll now find my writing under Michele Miller – not Tune. I know it may be confusing for a while and folks won’t quite recognize me but I’m still the same writer so I have confidence we’ll get there, eh?

I have written a few pieces over at MainlineGardening.com that you might enjoy.

What This Gardener Grows

Refresh Yourself With Rainbow Grass!

Packaging A Pink Pepper Patch

I’ve also been busy with this sweet gal. Her name is Ginger. Sometimes I call her Gingersnap. My husband likes to call her Gin. Whatever we call her, we love her and she loves us. She’s such a blessing!

See you all soon! *hugs*

Hi, y’all! It’s been a while, I know. How have my fantabulous readers been doing?

Summer is here! Woo hoo!

You may think cinnamon is only for a hot bowl of oatmeal in the wintertime but it isn’t. And I’m feeling cinnamon love lately so I decided to share with you the health benefits of cinnamon and give you a few ideas of how to incorporate this delicious, healthy spice during the warmer months.  

Fun Fact!

“Cinnamon is one of the oldest spices known. It was mentioned in the Bible and was used in ancient Egypt not only as a beverage flavoring and medicine, but also as an embalming agent. It was so highly treasured that it was considered more precious than gold. Around this time, cinnamon also received much attention in China, which is reflected in its mention in one of the earliest books on Chinese botanical medicine, dated around 2,700 B.C.” – WH Foods

Cinnamon is more than just a spice you can mix with sugar for your toast or something you can sprinkle on your oatmeal in the morning (just a couple of examples that seems to be pretty familiar with folks overall). It not only packs a powerful punch on taste, but provides some cool nutrients our bodies definitely appreciate.

(source)

A few health benefits that may come from consuming cinnamon:

1. enhanced brain function
2. more stabilized blood sugar
3. preventative colon and heart health

Cinnamon is also known to have anti-clotting and anti-microbial properties.

“Seasoning a high carb food with cinnamon can help lessen its impact on your blood sugar levels. Cinnamon slows the rate at which the stomach empties after meals, reducing the rise in blood sugar after eating. Researchers measured how quickly the stomach emptied after 14 healthy subjects ate 300 grams (1.2 cups) of rice pudding alone or seasoned with 6 grams (1.2 teaspoons) of cinnamon. Adding cinnamon to the rice pudding lowered the gastric emptying rate from 37% to 34.5% and significantly lessened the rise in blood sugar levels after eating. Am J Clin Nutr. 2 007 Jun;85(6):1552-6.” – WH Foods

For even more information on cinnamon and its nutritional value, click here.

Some of my favorite ways to get the health benefits of cinnamon follows….

Overnight Oats

I’ve made a pretty wide variety of overnight oats concoctions but haven’t only posted a couple of my recipes. Both recipes are below and make for a super yummy, cold and refreshing breakfast or snack during the hotter months.

Coconut Peanut Butter Overnight Oats <—Click link for recipe.

NuttzOats <—Click link for recipe.

Fun Fact!

“Cinnamon is the brown bark of the cinnamon tree, which when dried, rolls into a tubular form known as a quill.” – WH Foods

Cinnamon-Honey Tea

(source)

Ingredients:

1. honey of your choice

2. cinnamon of your choice

3. cup of hot water

Directions:

1. Pour 1 teaspoon of  honey in your cup.

2. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of cinnamon in your cup.

3. Pour hot water, stirring as you pour to mix well.

4. For hot weather, add ice and a wedge of fresh lemon. In colder months, sip while hot and warm the bones!

Note:

You can add honey and cinnamon to your tea of choice (whether it’s plain, old-fashioned Lipton or green, nettle leaf, etc.).

Other Cinnamon Ideas

1. herbal tea concoctions

2. sprinkled (generously) on a baked sweet tater

3. in iced coffee

Did you run and check your cupboards only to find you’re fresh out of cinnamon and/or honey? You’re in luck! With a few clicks, you can order  and have it delivered right to your front door.

If you’ve found yourself needing them, you can order honey here and order cinnamon here.

What’s your favorite way to consume cinnamon? Do you love the spice? Hate it? I love to smell it, eat it, drink it… What about you? Do you love adding honey to cinnamon like I do? Spice up the comments with your answers!

Credits:

Cinnamon Benefits and Nutrient Chart: WH Foods

Photo source

Hi, y’all!

This is a guest post from my friend, Jeremy Day. I’ve enjoyed his writing for quite some time now and feel very honored that he’s sharing his thoughts on buying local produce with us.

I won’t keep you waiting. Give Jeremy a warm welcome!

Why Buy Local Produce – A Guide To Taking The Plunge

By Jeremy Day

So you’ve been thinking about buying local produce, but haven’t taken the plunge? To be honest, it can be difficult to eat all your food locally, if not downright impossible. But there are many reasons, and many ways to start buying and eating more local produce today.

First, the reasons…

1. When was the last time you ate something freshly picked off the plant? I can still remember the taste of the strawberries we used to grow on my parents property. They were so good and so full of flavor. If anything, this should be your biggest motivation for eating more local produce.

2. Buying local produce saves a lot on transportation costs. By some estimates, food will travel on average up to 1,500 miles before it gets on your plate. Imagine how much less we would really on oil if food didn’t have to travel that far.

3. Local produce has more nutrients in it. The longer it is off the vine, the more nutrients it will lose. The only exception to the rule is produce that is flash frozen. And if it’s frozen it is costing even more to keep it frozen when it is transported.

4. By getting to know the farmers that grow your food you are building a better sense of community. I think we can agree that we all benefit by being more knowledgeable about how food gets onto our plate, and into our bellies.

5. What might be the most important thing about buying local is keeping more dollars in your community. The more money that stays in your community the better off your community will be.

Now for some ways you can buy local…

1. You can buy direct from your farmer. Hopefully you have a farmer close by.

2. You can go through what is called a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program. The way these basically work is that you buy “shares” in a farm earlier in the year. As the farmer harvests his crops he will send the first fruits to those who own shares in his farm. You normally will receive a box every week of the freshest produce in your area.

3. If your area is lucky enough to have one you can also visit your local farmer’s market. This is a way to get an even larger variety of produce, and other things people are wanting to sell. Specifically you can get baked goods, honey, and other things you might not get directly from a single farm. And it will all be goods made from local products and as you may know, local honey can be helpful with allergies.

4. Food coops have become pretty popular as well. These are basically a store owned by everyone who has a share in it, and it basically cuts out the middleman. So you get the best local produce and products at a more reasonable cost.

5. Finally there are many delivery services popping up around the nation to have fresh local produce delivered to your door. These may cost a little more, but people sure love the convenience of getting local produce delivered to them.

So there you have it. All the reasons and ways for you to start buying more local produce today. Since summer is almost upon us this is a great time to start looking at all the local produce you have access to.

Just remember when buying local produce that you double check if it is organic or not. While the majority of it tends to be organic, you still have to ask.

In any case, have fun finding the best local produce in your area.

Jeremy writes about local business news at Lokolee.com. If you love supporting local business, then Lokolee is the place to be.

Thank you, Jeremy!

Okay, y’all. What do you think? Do you buy local produce? Chime in and make Jeremy feel welcome!

Photo Credit: Lori L. Stalteri

Hi, y’all!

How’ve ya been doing? I know you probably thought Raw Juice Girl “flew the coop” but I didn’t. I’ve just been busy as a little worker bee doing all sorts of cool stuff – including gardening and writing about gardening!

I’ve also been hunting for treasures (which I’ve found!) for unique container gardening. I’m so excited to be growing yummy goodies to eat. Not only is gardening fun and healthy exercise, it’s rawsome to be able to eat produce you’ve grown yourself.

First up, is an old wheelbarrow that was full of junk. I knew right away it was a treasure that could be filled with rich soil and that it would make a wonderful home for produce of some sort.

Now that I think about it, strawberries would have loved living here, but pepper plants it was: cayenne, jalapeño, and sweet bell peppers to be exact.

Before

After

Note two things:

1. The recycled trash can lid turned upside-down in order to lift the bottom and result in using less soil.
2. That the wheelbarrow is now PINK – my all-time favorite color!

(I blogged about my “Pink Pepper Patch” here!)

Next up is an old shelf that was laying in someone’s yard and would have literally just rotted away to nothingness. I could envision a fantabulous raised garden bed and just had to have it!

Thanks to my sweet husband, with some scraps of thin plywood nailed on the back to make a bottom, I was in business….

Before

After

On each end of the above raised garden bed is yellow crooked neck squash (four plants on each end).

Along the back, is four cucumber plants.

Down the three center rows is tomatoes (green zebra striped and beefsteak). I’ve never grown green zebra striped tomatoes. I bought them from a lady down the road. They’re supposed to stay green even after they mature. Now, she also sold me some Ananas Noir tomatoes – more about that in a future post.

Squash Blooms Already!

Tomato Blooms!

(I blogged about How Gardening with Grandma as a Child Brings Writing Success Today HERE!)

Lastly is an old, rusty washtub. Oh, the joy!  This beauty was lost in the weeds and it just spoke to me. Yep, it did. It said, “Michele, you need me. I’ll grow delicious spinach and basil for you!”

It won my heart over. (I blogged about the story: Grandma’s Washtub Transformed!)

Before

After

And so it grows….

What about you? Are you a gardener? Have you discovered the peace and joy of gardening? Do you love garden-fresh produce? Do you remember gardening as a child? What’s your favorite veggie or fruit?  How has life been treating you? I’ve missed you so – fill me in!

Keep your eyes peeled for more gardening adventures!

Hi, y’all!

Hope you enjoyed my last post (on the health benefits of blackstrap molasses). It’s actually quite delicious in smoothies and oatmeal.

As I was weeding through emails tonight, I came across one from Diane Ferraro. Her email touched my heart. As a survivor of domestic violence – and someone who has found such significant healing and peace through yoga – I knew I had to share her message with y’all.

I’ve blogged about yoga several times before. And Diane’s email hit really close to home for me, as I’m a survivor of domestic violence myself. Yoga also helps me cope with living with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fibromyalgia. It truly grounds me….

Here’s the press release included in Diane’s email:

Contact: Diane Ferraro                          FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Office: 347.457.6823
Cell: 917.376.1302
Email: diane@littlefloweryoga.com

LITTLE FLOWER YOGA JOINS NATIONWIDE YOGATHON Raising Awareness and Prevention Efforts around Domestic Violence

Yoga is widely credited for effectively reducing stress, improving concentration skills, and developing a healthy and holistic approach for personal development.

By offering yoga to children, Little Flower Yoga is providing a resource that children can use to help them as they navigate through some of the most challenging developmental stages they will ever face, and a tool they can access for the rest of their lives.

To learn more or become involved in this fundraiser with Little Flower Yoga
visit http://www.littlefloweryoga.com/special-events/peace-by-peace-yogathon.

Yoga teachers and studio owners can sign up as ambassadors and hosts by May 1; yoga students may join the cause starting May 1st. Participation is simple and as a community we can make a tremendous impact in the lives of domestic violence survivors.

1.      http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/DELTA/
2.      http://www.futureswithoutviolence.org/

###

If you would like more on this topic or to schedule an interview with Jennifer
Cohen Harper, contact Diane Ferraro at 347.457.6823 or
diane@littlefloweryoga.com and feel free to visit www.littlefloweryoga.com

What about you? Have you tried yoga? Does it bring you peace? Strength? Joy? Have you found healing through yoga?

Hi, y’all!

Glad you enjoyed my Berserk for Bazura post. How fun, huh? It’s super cool to have a good time while educating about the environment and sharing creative, awesome products!

But let’s get on with the yumilicious topic at hand: blackstrap molasses.   

Fun Fact!

“It is not often that a fateful tragedy occurs that centers around a food, but unfortunately, in 1919, one such event did occur. The event is referred to as the Great Molasses Flood and occurred when a molasses storage tank holding over two million gallons of molasses broke, and its sticky content came pouring throughout the city streets of Boston, Massachussetts, traveling as fast as 35 miles per hour and creating a thirty foot tidal wave of sweetener. Unfortunately, this was not a sweet matter as twenty-one people died and significant amounts of property was destroyed.” – WH Foods

That is SO wild to me. Can you even imagine a RIVER of molasses? I mean, a TIDAL WAVE?! Isn’t that just insane? And such a sad fate that people lost their lives. Gosh, the things we learn as we blog, eh?

So what about the goodies in blackstrap molasses? There’s quite a list of vitamins and minerals – nutrients galore!

 Vitamins

1. B2 (riboflavin)
2. B3 (Niacin)
3. B6 (folate)
4. pantothenic acid

Minerals

1. copper
2. calcium
3. iron
4. manganese
5. magnesium
6. phosphorus
7. potassium
8. selenium
9. sodium
10. zinc

Health Benefits

So what actually comes from absorbing the above nutrients?

Just to get an idea…

According to WH Foods, energy levels may soar: “In addition to providing quickly assimilated carbohydrates, blackstrap molasses can increase your energy by helping to replenish your iron stores.”

And the calcium found in blackstrap molasses will help with strong bones, teeth, removing toxins from the colon, and so much more!

All this provided by just a couple of spoonsful says WH Foods: “Two teaspoons of blackstrap molasses will meet 11.8% of your daily needs for calcium.”

Other benefits may include ridding your body of free radicals, healthier joints and nervous system, and improved cholesterol levels.

“Look for blackstrap molasses that is unsulphured since not only does it not contain this processing chemical to which some people are sensitive, but it has a cleaner and more clarified taste. Blackstrap molasses made from organic sugar cane is also available in some markets.” – WH Foods

Check out my Blackstrap Smoothie recipe over at the Mainline Gardening blog.

What about you? Are you a molasses person? Do you drizzle it over your pancakes or bread? Do you splash some in your smoothies? How about stirring some in your oatmeal? Yum-O! Get sticky in the comments. Do tell! 

Credits:

Blackstrap Molasses: WH Foods

Photo: Wikepedia

 Disclaimer: The kind folks at Bazura Bags (www.bazurabags.com) sent me the awesome items in this post to review. I was not paid to write a post. The thoughts and opinions are my own.

Hi, y’all! How are you on this beautiful April day? Fantabulous, I hope!

I’m sharing my thoughts on Bazura with you today. I hope you enjoy the photos and my reflections on this company, what they’re doing for the environment, and maybe you’ll even want to order something for yourself!

I love what this company promotes and stands for.

Check out this press release (my review follows):

BAZURA BAGS BRINGS ECO-FASHION TO AMERICA
  Stylish Bags & Accessories Handcrafted from Recycled Materials
Toronto, Ontario (June27, 2006) – On the heels of the thriving organic movement, eco-fashion is gaining momentum in North America. Much of the surge of consumer interest is due to the fact that the latest eco-fashion products place equal emphasis on quality and style as they do with environmental benefits.

  Bazura™ Bags (

www.bazurabags.com) is a social entrepreneur that is proving that one person’s trash is another’s treasure. The Toronto-based company has launched a line of high quality bags and accessories handcrafted by a women’s cooperative in the Philippines from colorful discarded juice containers that would otherwise clutter landfills, fields and streets in their community. While the company has a compelling environmental and social story behind the product, Bazura Bags were carefully designed to be chic, high-quality, functional, durable and stylishly colorful.

  The line of Bazura Bags introduced to the U.S. features more than 80 styles that serve many functions. The company’s most popular designs are coin purses, messenger bags, lunch bags and purses. New styles include camera and cell phone bags, key chains, placemats, cosmetic bags and fruit baskets. The fun collage of colors that are the signature of the Bazura line are derived from the attractive labels of the juice containers they are made from. The eye-catching brand labels feature slogans and exotic fruit names like "Sun Glo" and “Zesto.” The recycled juice containers also impart a hint of fresh fruit scent.

www.bazurashop.com. For more information about the company and its social mission, please visit www.bazurabags.com.

About the Company

I’m in awe of Bazura and how they’re taking what most consider as trash and using it to not only create super cool products, but to provide employment and to educate children on how to reuse what’s already available to help preserve our beautiful earth. 

From the Site:

Welcome to Bazura Bags!

For the past 8 years Bazura.Biz has worked closely with a Women’s Co-operative in the Philippines, who collect used juice containers, recycled rice bags and discarded advertising banners. The Co-op then has their members transform this trash into hand bags and accessories.

The collection of this trash helps clean up the environment in and around Manila and through out the Philippines, while eliminating tons of material from local land fills. The use of Bazura’s many Shopping and Tote bags also helps eliminate the use of disposal plastic shopping bags which produce millions of pounds of waste that clutter our environment, clog our landfills and use huge quantities of petrol chemicals in their production. Bazura recommends that everyone switch to environmentally friendly bags.

This past September 2009 the Co-op was devastated by Typhoon Ondoy. Two of their members drowned during the typhoon and scores of the members’ homes were flooded. Many donations from the Co-op’s buyers and friends have been collected and, with great determination and hard work, the women of the Co-op have repaired their headquarters and most of their members’ homes.

Bazura.Biz is very proud to work with and support this marvelous group of women.

Note: Bazura.Biz donates an additional five percent of its total purchases from the Co-operative to their Foundation’s Scholarship Fund as well as continued support of their Disaster Relief Fund.

Woven Key Fob

Cute and fun! Check ‘em out HERE.

Bazura Bags

The MW-2 Stripped Messenger Bag is really cool. This bag can be used for carrying books, personal items, or whatever you wish.

“Aluminum Beverage Bags from Bazura Bags are handcrafted in Vietnam. These bags are constructed using recycled aluminum soda and beer cans. The aluminum is backed with vinyl, then shaped, edged and hand stitched.” – Bazura

Crochet Place Mats

These place mats are fun, colorful, cheerful, and are easy to clean up – just wipe off, dry, and leave on the table or keep packed up for picnics!

Pros

Bazura products have a long list of pros. Below are just a few that impress me.

• eco-friendly
• fair trade
• anti-sweatshop
• train children to recycle
• reduces trash sent to landfills
• encourages environmentalism
• bright, cheerful, fun designs
• creative (re)use of items considered as trash
• “donates an additional five percent of its total purchases from the Co-operative to their Foundation’s Scholarship Fund as well as continued support of their Disaster Relief Fund.”

Bazura products are also perfect for fundraisers!

FUNDRAISERS

“Over the past few years, BAZURABAGS have achieved remarkable success as fundraising items.

Parent associations from both public and private schools as well as environmental groups, seniors residences and youth clubs have organized successful fundraisers using BAZURABAGS.” — Bazura

…and much, much more!

Well, see for yourself.

Read… 

 The Story

Every day, children from the local schools collect   over 50,000 used drink containers, called doy packs, then sell them to the co-op.  The bags are sanitized and the women sew them together into attractive, durable bags.

We estimate that millions of these containers get thrown in the trash everyday in the Philippines. Until we find a way to recycle them, or stop using this material altogether, we would like to reuse as many empty drink containers as possible and, in the process, support fair trade.

The Co-op has recently started  to collect used  Rice Bags and discarded Advertising Banners and transform this trash into beautiful hand bags.

The Women

Unlike most third world factory workers toiling away in sweatshops, these women are entrepreneurs and shareholders. They work for themselves and have a positive impact on their community and, at the same time, they encourage environmentalism.

We are proud to promote their enterprise.”– Bazura

Cons

Hmmm… I always try really hard to think of the pros and cons because I do strive to give honest, heartfelt reviews. I cherish that y’all trust and value my opinion and I desire to keep things that way. The only thing I can truly think of as a con with these products and/or this company (as far as the environment is concerned) would only be the shipping aspect. (But that can’t really even be considered a con because all companies have to ship!) Everything else seems to be green.

Verdict/Grade?

Let’s give Bazura a big, fat…

A!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I’m confident that Bazura is doing all they possibly can to promote recycling and eco-friendly living. And I think it’s wonderful that they provide a wholesome work environment for their employees (anti-sweatshop!) and that they’re teaching children to walk lightly on Mother Earth.

Bravo, Bazura, bravo!

You can contact the Bazura Company HERE or browse their online shop HERE. Read about their shipping policy HERE.

Have you ever heard of Bazura Bags? How do you feel about the eco-friendly process of recycling materials to make bags, place mats, and other cool items? Do you recycle? Would you purchase recycled or other green merchandise? Chime in and share your juicy, green thoughts!

“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” ~ Albert Einstein

Hi, y’all! Oh, how I’ve missed you…

I assure you, I will get back in to posting regularly. I’m on my way!

But for now, I’ve been pretty quiet online and have been doing some soul searching, finding peace, and growing and changing.

Like the trees in this photo (which are just a few feet away from me), I’m standing stronger than I ever have in my life. Life can be a treacherous journey, but it can be a peaceful one at the same time.

Don’t you agree?

So… how ARE my fantabulous readers and precious online friends?

Do you love nature? Does it bring you peace and serenity? Are you a gardener? Check out my first post at Main Line Gardening: Gearing Up for Gardening with Black Grass.

Yes, I’m the fresh face on that beautiful gardening site! Take some time to browse the other gardening articles as well.

Quote Source: http://www.quotegarden.com/nature.html