Articles with the yoga Tag
Hi, y’all!
As I promised myself – and y’all – I’m getting back to healthy eating and my yoga practice.
My first morning back to yoga practice was spent with Stacy McCarthy and it was AMAZING!
I tried out one of her new DVD’s: Yoga Body: Hip Opening Flow – which I LOVE.
But you can read all about that HERE.
On to the oats, right?! Right!
You’ll notice the specs and dark color of the oats. That’s because I loaded ‘em up with cinnamon.
I heart cinnamon.
And it’s not just for the spectacular aroma and yummy flavor, it’s because it’s so good for me, too! See for yourself by reading my Health Benefits of Cinnamon post.
Get ready for something that’s….
Warm, Crunchy, Fluffy, Delish!
I also had a cup of yumilicious coffee with breakfast. I added a few drops of vanilla stevia AND cocoa bean extract. I’m living on the wild side, aren’t I? LOL 
NuttZo-Cinnamon Oatmeal
Ingredients:
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3/4 cup old-fashioned whole-grain oat flakes
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1 1/2 cups milk
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10 drops vanilla stevia
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healthy dose of cinnamon (to taste)
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1-2 TBSP NuttZo
Directions:
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Following directions on the container, heat on stove or in microwave, if you use one.
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Once done, stir in NuttZo, vanilla stevia drops, and cinnamon.
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Enjoy!
Cute Item found @ a Thrift Store: $1.00
Are you a patient person? Or does this quote sum you up?
How do you like your oatmeal? Do you like to switch up the flavors and textures or are you partial to a certain oatmeal concoction? Do share!
And…
Don’t forget to enter my SWEET GIVEAWAY!!!!
There will be FOUR winners!!!
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
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!!!
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?
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 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!
Holiday shopping can be super stressful. So why not do something special for your health – and the health of those you love?
That’s why I’ve gathered up some of my all-time favorite health products and included them in this post. There are currently some awesome holiday deals running. With each product I list below, I share links to the reviews I wrote about them so you’ll be able to see WHY I am recommending them. Some of these products are currently on sale – others are a deal, regardless.
Ready, set, go!
First up is…
E3Live
I reviewed their Klamath Lake Blue-Green Algae (check it out by clicking HERE). I even hosted a giveaway for an awesome package deal of E3Live, BrainOn, and their cool shaker cup (see that HERE).
Their products are RAWmazing – and that’s why I’m so excited to share the following discount with you!
A word from the folks at E3Live:
“We are offering an end-of-the-year Thank You of 20% off (using coupon code: HOLIDAY) which can be used on any of our products except the soaps and Patented Stem Cell product. This is a great time to purchase frozen items for yourself or others – it’s a great savings and our way to say Thanks to all of you.”
Offer valid until Friday, December 31st
• 20% discount does not apply to soaps or Patented Stem Cell Enhancer
• 20% discount does not apply to Earth’s Essential Cream and E3Light Polish, as they are already 30% off
• offer valid until Dec. 31st, midnight PST
• to get the 20% off, please enter coupon code: HOLIDAY during online checkout
Don’t forget to enter HOLIDAY to get your 20% off!
Next up…
Amazing Grass
Y’all might remember that I introduced Amazing Grass during my 30-day juice fast. You may remember me raving about wheat grass during that time. (Get your Organic Wheat Grass Powder Here!) I love this stuff! It does have an earthy/green taste, I’ll be honest but I love it so much – and how it makes me feel – I don’t mind at all. Besides, if you DO mind, that taste is easily disguised in a fruity smoothie! 
Or you could go for one of their other mixes that contains wheat grass but has a bunch of other flavors (like fruit or chocolate).
Look for the red sale tags, folks. Amazing Grass products are worth every penny – so give the gift of health to those you love!
Order your Amazing Grass products here!
Gotta have some entertainment, right? Why not make it healthy…
Simply Raw
If you or someone you love is battling diabetes, their weight, or even other health issues, I urge you to watch this series of films. You’ll learn about raw foods, how they can heal, and so much more!
Here’s a snippet of my thoughts on the powerful message Simply Raw provides:
Simply Raw gives you a peek into the journey of six Americans who are battling diabetes. Some of them are also battling obesity. While staying at The Tree of Life in Arizona, under the supervision of Dr. Gabriel Cousens, the six individuals (with various diabetes levels and insulin problems) were carefully monitored and cared for.Looking into the lives of these people and watching their struggles, their honest attempts, and then more struggles as they tried to make it through the 30-day program just broke my heart. I’ve been obese morbidly obese. I know the pain. I know how discouraging it can be to wake up every morning with a heavy person weighing your life down and feeling like life is hopeless and like you can never, ever achieve the healthier, slimmer body you so desire.
I also used to be on diabetic medication because my blood sugar was atrocious. I related so much to the stories these people shared in this DVD. It was almost as if I were living my own morbid obesity and blood sugar problems all over again!
So, I absolutely believe in the power of raw foods and know from personal experience and my own journey that blood sugar can stabilize. I’ve lost over 100 pounds and am now eating 100% raw food–no more diabetic medication for me!
You can read more about my thoughts on reversing diabetes with raw food by clicking HERE and/or HERE.
Time to get physical…
Exercise
I really love yoga. I’m still amazed at how much yoga grounds me, calms me. But it does. For years, I stayed away from it, was afraid to try it, and boy was I missing out! I’m still no super yogi by anyone’s standards. But yoga is a practice I plan to carry with me throughout life. I’ve been away from the mat for the past few months (although I’ve been getting plenty of exercise on this pink beauty) but yoga is still dear to my heart. And Aurorae Yoga
See my review of their products at the following links:
Aurorae Yoga Mat Review – Don’t have time to read? Hop on over and buy yourself – or your loved one! – Get an Aurorae Yoga Mat
Aurorae Yoga Sport Sweat Towel Review – Too busy to click? Rush to get your Aurorae Yoga 100% Cotton Sport Sweat Towel
Aurorae Yoga Slip-Free Rosin Bag Review – OR snatch up this awesome Aurorae Slip Free Rosin 5-Pack
And check out this awesome discount Aurorae is offering!
As a token of our appreciation, we would like to offer you a Friends & Family Discount of 15% off any of our products on Amazon.com between now and December 31, 2010. In order to redeem this discount, make sure to add Aurorae9 in the promotional code when checking out.
My favorite yoga DVDs
I alternate between the following yoga DVDs. I love them both, each for different reasons. I feel I get something different from both of them. I can’t choose a favorite so that’s why I just switch up.
Yoga Body Lean & Defined Total Body Workout DVD – Stacy McCarthy (Grab your copy HERE.
Yoga Mind & Body – Ali MacGraw ( Grab your copy HERE.
And we can’t forget about our skin, can we?! Introducing…
ShimmerOrganics
I chose this product because I love that it’s eco-friendly and works so well. And because you’ll use such a small amount each time, the price is totally reasonable.
Check out my review of the raw, organic ShimmerOrganics Mandarin and Honey Revitalizing Mask.
Remember when I put my face out there during that review??!! 
You can also read my interview with the awesome lady who created and runs ShimmerOrganics, by clicking HERE. And see what a fantabulous job she does with her heartfelt, cheerful packaging!
Get your ShimmerOrganics products at Lisa’s Online Shop!
And… don’t forget to check out THESE FREE SAMPLES AND DISCOUNTS!
Here’s to Happy Holidays and Healthy Shopping!
Watch for another holiday post with my favorite eco-friendly products – including Bite Bags, which I recently reviewed! What are your favorite healthy products? Do you give them as gifts? Isn’t it a joy when you can buy gifts for people who are health conscious? Chime in, fantabulous people!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, but the products I’ve chosen to share are recommended from my heart. I was not approached by any of the companies I mentioned to include them on this list. I was not paid to write this post.
Disclaimer: The generous folks at the Aurorae Yoga company were kind enough to send me a beautiful, luxurious yoga mat from their collection to review. They also sent their Sport Sweat Towel and their Yoga Slip Free Rosin Bag. However, I was not paid – or asked – to write a review or host a contest.
Thank you, Aurorae!
Hi, y’all! How are ya?
SO sorry for the delay on posting the winner! I do hope you’ll forgive me.
For one, I’ve been super busy on the farm. Who said Amish livin’ was peaceful and serene? It’s hard work and chaos, I tell ya! Well, I suppose the peace and quiet is thrown in there, too.
Two, there’s been a gazillion things pulling me in a gazillion directions and every time I came to work on this post, I got pulled away. Ack!
Anyway….
I’m excited to announce the winner of the Aurorae Yoga giveaway. I know y’all have been anticipating this day for two weeks so let’s get to business, shall we?!
There were 116 entries. And, as usual, I visited Mr. Random (www.random.org) to find a winner.
I totally wish each and every one of you could have won this prize – but only one takes away this awesome Aurorae Yoga package today…
And who does #103 belong to?
Well, it belongs to Emily of Random Recycling!
Emily@random recycling said:
Just signed up for the newsletter.
Thanks!
Emily
Emily@random recycling´s last blog ..Green Decorating Ideas for Summer Parties
Enjoy yoga-ing, Emily:-D
Didn’t win? Don’t worry! You can still get yourselves the same awesome Aurorae set!
Get an Aurorae Yoga mat HERE!
The Aurorae Yoga Sport Sweat Towel HERE!
And/or the Aurorae Yoga Slip-Free Rosin Bag HERE!
Thanks to everyone who entered! Look for ANOTHER Aurorae Yoga review and giveaway in the future! And a VERY, VERY special thank you to the fine folks at Aurorae Yoga who made this AWESOME giveaway possible!!!!
And….
Congrats, Emily! You’ll hear from me soon!!!
Disclaimer: The generous folks at the Aurorae Yoga company were kind enough to send me a beautiful, luxurious yoga mat from their collection to review. They also sent their Sport Sweat Towel and their Yoga Slip Free Rosin Bag. However, I was not paid to write this review – or even asked to write one.
Thank you, Aurorae!
And…. Hello, fantabulous friends!
How’s your week going so far? Did you have an awesome day yesterday? What about today? Have you had a smoothie? Were you brave enough to try my black smoothie?
And I’m tickled pink (hehe) that y’all are so excited about my garden-inspired Meatless Monday recipe: Raw Rainbow Wraps. Those are definitely friendly for a yogi lifestyle, don’t ya think?
Speaking of yogi lifestyle, do you use a slip-free rosin bag as a part of your yoga practice? If so, have you tried Aurorae’s? And if not, would you?
I was pretty excited when I received mine. Of course, I’ve found quite a few yogis seem to think that “extras” aren’t always necessary (like blocks, etc.) but hey, if they enhance your practice and/or motivate you to get yoga-ing, why not use ‘em?!
In this photo, you can see Aurorae’s Slip-Free Rosin Bag fits in the palm of your hand. It isn’t huge and doesn’t take much space. It’s the perfect size to toss in the pocket of your yoga bag – or even your purse! Well, for that matter, I suppose you could even put it in your pocket if you were in a rush or just prefer that method.
Before I get busy telling you all the juicy details about this magical little bag, let me refresh your memory…
Remember my in-depth review of the beautiful, inspiring, pink (my favorite color EVER!!!) yoga mat?
You can read it HERE, if you missed it.
And did you see my thoughts on Aurorae’s Yoga Sport Sweat Towel?
Read all about that HERE.
Now, on to my thoughts regarding the Slip-Free Rosin Bag….
About Aurorae’s Slip-Free Rosin Bag
If you’re a natural sweater and find yourself slipping on your yoga mat – whether or not you’re in a hot yoga class – you might be in need of Aurorae’s Slip-Free Rosin Bag.
Why?
Well, this little creation can indeed be the answer to no more slipping and sliding on your yoga mat. Who wants to be interrupted when you’re in that still, calm yoga moment?! Yoga poses are meant to be enjoyed, savored – not cut short by sweaty palms or feet!
And Aurorae knows just that:
Product Description (from the site):
Aurorae Yoga Rosin Bag has been developed to aid in the prevention of slipping on your Yoga mat. Similar to gymnasts, tennis players and baseball pitchers, perspiration creates slipping problems when a firm grip is necessary to maximize their performance. Our Aurorae Yoga Rosin Bag increases your gripping power and absorbs perspiration with the slight touch of the bag. The Rosin should be applied to both your hands and feet before your practice and added as needed during your practice. Please make sure to store your Yoga Rosin Bag in the Zip lock bag it comes with to increase its life. We at Aurorae are always looking for simple and cost effective ways to help you improve, as well as enjoy your practice. Remember "It’s Your Yoga". Relax, Enjoy and Namaste.
Ah….
I can relax and enjoy, can’t you?
Pros
As I mentioned above, this rosin bag helps create a dry, enjoyable experience for you and your yoga mat (well, your hands, feet, and mat anyway!)
Here’s a little more information…
Product Features (from the site):
- Innovative new technology to prevent slipping
- Increases Gripping Power
- Product exclusive to Aurorae
- Absorbs Perspiration
- No Odor, Non Sticky
- Made in the U.S.A.
Did you read that? You don’t have to be bothered with any type of smell – this rosin bag doesn’t have any type of odor.
And for just $6.95, what do you have to lose?
I had to squish it and smear it on my hands to get a feel for it…
Can you see it?
And it works! How cool is that?!
Cons
I genuinely try really hard to find something that some of you may consider a con – but I simply can’t think of anything here. I always try to consider low budgets when I write reviews (I’m a VERY frugal gal myself!) – but this bag merely costs a few dollars.
Verdict/Grade
Aurorae Yoga’s Slip-Free Rosin Bag gets an A+ from Raw Juice Girl!
Great job, Aurorae!
Have you ever tried a slip-free rosin bag? What did you think? Do you love it? Enjoy it? Look forward to using it?
And… the Surprise?!
How would you like to own an Aurorae Yoga set? That’s right! Look for the next post, because I’m launching an Aurorae Yoga Giveaway! Winner will get to choose whichever mat they want PLUS you’ll receive the same Aurorae Yoga Sport Sweat Towel and Slip-Free Rosin Bag that I’ve reviewed.
Ready?
Off to get that giveaway post ready. Woo hoo!!
We have a winner!! I know everyone’s excited and anxious so I’ll just get right to it. The contest for the yoga mat (from The Bolder Mat Company) and the yoga DVD (by Stacy McCarthy, of Yoga Nama Stacy) has now ended. We owe a BIG thank you to both of these companies for sponsoring the review and contest and allowing us the amazing opportunity to enjoy their healthy products!
By the way, it always hurts me that I can’t give away whatever prize I’m offering to each and every one of you… 
On to business: There were 65 comments in all, and I used random.org to select a winner.
Here’s Mr. Random’s answer:
So, who was the lucky owner of comment #58?
PlaidEarthWorm (Beth Bartlett, of www.plaidearthworm.com)!!
Her winning comment said:
- 58 plaidearthworm { 08.19.09 at 5:55 pm }
You should get the pingback, but I thought I’d let you know I also mentioned you and the contest on my personal blog: http://plaidearthworm.livejournal.com/21207.html
Her first comment (there was seven ways to enter):
- 45 plaidearthworm { 08.15.09 at 10:47 pm }
Before today, the last time I tried to do yoga a year ago, I cried, because I was too heavy to do the poses anymore, and didn’t have enough room in my living room to move my big body. Today I did 45 min. of yoga b/c I’m 90 lbs lighter. It felt great! I’d love to win Fish Wish, so I can keep swimming upstream against the stress.
Congratulations!
I’m so happy for you, Beth! Comment #45 is a real tearjerker, in my opinion! Let me tell you, folks: Beth has been on a journey to improve her health. I’ve lost over 100 pounds myself, so I know that her losing 90 pounds is NO EASY TASK! I commend her for sticking to it and keeping her eye on the prize. She’s persevered and deserves applause–and this prize! *claps hands*
So, keep swimming, Beth. Keep swimming! Just zip me an email (healingwithjuices at gmail dot com)with your mailing information and I’ll get it to the companies. They’ll be in touch with you and you’ll get to tell them you want that Fish Wish mat. I know you’ll enjoy years of yoga with your mat and DVD. Yay!
Didn’t win?
Don’t worry! There are a TON of upcoming contests!!
You’ll definitely want to stay tuned!
Be sure to subscribe to Healing with Juices’ Feed for free updates. You can get free updates to your email as well (sign up here). You’ll also receive inspiration, juice and smoothie recipes, and juice fasting tips and encouragement to help keep you motivated toward your ultimate health–and more personal posts about stuff that’s going on in my life PLUS get to enter all sorts of awesome contests! 
First, I’d like to remind you about the current contest I have running: The Bolder Mat Company Yoga Mat + Stacy McCarthy’s Yoga DVD. (Contest ends Wednesday, August 19th. There are SEVEN ways to win!!)
“As always, your positive energy leaps off of my computer screen and makes me smile.”–Mika Hebeka
The morning started like any other morning (recently, anyway): I woke up, did an hour of yoga (with my Stacy McCarthy DVD), hopped in the shower, and then had a rich, creamy organic Greek yogurt with frozen blueberries on top. I checked my email, did some writing, a couple of loads of laundry and all that good stuff.
Then, I got my mail. I tore open the envelope and peered inside. Here’s what I found: Ali MacGraw – Yoga Mind & Body
Yoga DVD + Sweet Card
Mika had sent me the most precious gift: her all-time favorite yoga DVD, and not just any DVD–her personal yoga DVD that she’s enjoyed for the past 3 years! Gifts like this mean SO much more than new ones. It came from her heart, from her own personal belongings. Gifts like this one are what I treasure most. They mean the most because they’re thoughtful and not just grabbed off some shelf while walking through a store in a rush.
This is the first gift a reader has ever sent me–that makes it even more special!! Thank you, Mika, from the bottom of my heart. I’m so honored and blessed.
The very next morning, I practiced my hour of yoga with Mika’s DVD–I LOVED it! I was so relaxed during the Shavasana, I almost fell asleep! It’s wonderful!
Mika recently won one of my contests (for Nomi Shannon’s raw recipe books) and is starting a raw revolution in her small town. Go, Mika!!!
As Healing With (Raw) Juices grows and evolves, I dare to wonder: Where would I be without you readers? Your subscriptions increase my readership, your comments bring value to the site, your emails brighten my day and encourage me beyond belief, your presence brings joy to my life…. Thank you, Mika (you’re the bestest!!), and each of you, for continuing to be such huge blessings to me!!!
Be sure to subscribe to Healing with Juices’ Feed for free updates. You can get free updates to your email as well (sign up here). You’ll also receive inspiration, juice and smoothie recipes, and juice fasting tips and encouragement to help keep you motivated toward your ultimate health–and more personal posts about stuff that’s going on in my life PLUS get to enter all sorts of awesome contests!
First, I’d like to remind you about the current contest I have running: The Bolder Mat Company Yoga Mat + Stacy McCarthy’s Yoga DVD. (Contest ends Wednesday, August 19th. There are SEVEN ways to win!!)
My day started out with an hour of yoga, which was fantabulous! I almost fell asleep during Shavasana, I was SO relaxed! (Have I mentioned lately that I’m in LOVE with yoga??!!) After that, I gobbled up an organic Greek yogurt with frozen blueberries on top (this is by far my FAVORITE, non-raw meal)!
Then, I did some writing + blog work and some other stuff. Once it was time for lunch, I was STARVING.
Spinach Salad
a bunch of baby spinach leaves (this is a bigger bowl than it seems)
organic tomatoes (from my garden)
frozen peas +organic bell pepper from my garden (lightly steamed with coconut oil + Italian herbs)
hemp seeds (from www.manitobaharvest.com)
macadamia nuts
THIS SALAD WAS DELICIOUS!!! YUM!!! 
Once lunch was finished and cleaned up, it was time for me to stop procrastinating and make some chocolate pudding from avocados! Enter: Chocolate (Avocado) Pudding Heaven!
Cleanin’ Out the Fridge + Garden Overflow
There was a little of this, that, and the other in the fridge where veggies are concerned. I’ve been eating a LOT of salad but needed to clean out those odds and ends. Also, I needed to use up some freshly-picked garden veggies…
Organic, Heirloom Tomatoes
Organic Heirloom Bell + Banana Peppers
All from My Garden
First Up: Tomato Juice
(After I washed all that garden dirt off!)
Beautiful Tomato Juice Bubbles!
Made 3 Cups + a Little Leftover
Just for me!
Next Up: Juice Concoction
rest of the tomatoes
3 bell peppers
5 big banana peppers
whole bag of organic carrots (16 ounce) + a few other stray (organic) carrots
2 big cucumbers (from my garden)
teeny bit of spinach
Juice Concoction Bubbles
Juice Concoction Pulp
(The pulp went to the ducks, chickens, and turkeys.)
Organic, Heirloom Cucumbers
9 big cucumbers went into this juice!
Gorgeous Cucumber Juice Bubbles
Those 9 cucumbers made 3 cups of juice (shown above) + half of my oversized, favorite cup for drinking right away!
Cucumber Juice for Me!
It’s a Raw Juice Party!
In all, I ended up with:
1 – 3 cup container of tomato juice
1 – 3 cup container of cucumber juice
1 – 3 cup container which contained 3/4 cucumber juice + 1/4 juice concoction
2 – 3 cup containers of juice concoction
1 – 12 ounce Amazing Grass shaker cup of cucumber juice
1 – 12 ounce Amazing Grass shaker cup of cantaloupe juice
leftover 8 ounces or so of cucumber juice, which I drank in my polka-dotted cup (shown above)
Cantaloupe Juice
I forgot to take a photo of the cantaloupe but it was organic, heirloom (from my garden) as well.
It made 12 ounces–which fit perfectly into an Amazing Grass shaker cup! This one went into the freezer for later. Yum!
Juices in a Nice, Clean Fridge!
What’s in your fridge?
Be sure to subscribe to Healing with Juices’ Feed for free updates. You can get free updates to your email as well (sign up here). You’ll also receive inspiration, juice and smoothie recipes, and juice fasting tips and encouragement to help keep you motivated toward your ultimate health–and more personal posts about stuff that’s going on in my life PLUS get to enter all sorts of awesome contests!
First of all, I’d love to thank Stacy McCarthy and The Bolder Mat Company for providing this awesome Yoga DVD for my review and enjoyment, and so I could share it with all of you!
“Having a balanced approach to your health is like having a set of maps all leading to the correct destination yet with possibly different routes to choose to fit you and your life.”—Stacy McCarthy
About the DVD
I’ll be honest: It sort of scared me a little that this Yoga DVD lasts an entire hour! I’m fairly new to yoga and have only been doing 10 – 20 minute routines about 5 mornings a week. In the past, when I’ve tried any type of exercise workout video that lasted an hour or so, I always felt overwhelmed and just turned it off and gave up. I was worried that would happen with this DVD—especially since I’m so new to yoga and have only been practicing a few minutes of the morning. I thought I may get 20 minutes in and have to pause it and come back later. Guess what? That didn’t happen at all! Eeeek!
Let me tell you, I LOVE this DVD and will cherish it and use it until it wears out and won’t turn another single time in my DVD player! Not only did I make it the entire hour, it seemed like only moments had passed and I didn’t want it to end at all!
About the Instructor
Stacy McCarthy, the Yoga Instructor, is a Raw Food enthusiast. She has even hosted several Raw Food/Yoga events! Her voice is calming and soothing and she has such a beautiful outlook on practicing yoga. She started her own yoga journey almost 20 years ago, but has been in the health and fitness industry for over 20 years.
Stacy emphasizes numerous times for you to NOT focus on actually achieving certain poses, but to focus on staying aligned while stretching only as far as your body will go at that time. In her words: “Be slow to judge and quick to acknowledge your efforts toward a healthy life.”
We’re all at different fitness levels. Some of you are recovering from injuries; others haven’t exercised in years—or ever—so there’s no way you’ll be as flexible as a Yogi who has been practicing for years and has become flexible enough to do those amazing Yoga poses.
I love how reassuring Stacy is as she encourages you to not judge yourself based on performance. Instead, she wants you to feel good about yourself for actually trying to do something healthy for yourself!
You can visit Stacy’s website: Yoga Nama Stacy (I LOVE that clever title!) and she has a blog in the works, too!
About the Yoga Style
Stacy teaches a Yoga form she developed that is based upon the Ashtanga. At the beginning of the video, she mentions the three unseen fundamentals of yoga:. The first of the three unseen fundamentals are called Bandhas: 1) Mula Bandha, the Root Lock 2) Uddiyana Bandha, which is the Abdominal Lock and 3) Jhalandara Bandha, the Throat Lock. This one is used less frequently than the first two.
Then we learn that the second unseen fundamental is breath. The breath type Stacy uses in this video is called Ujjayi breathing (through the nose), which means victorious. As you’re breathing through your nose, your breath deepens toward the back of your throat, Stacy says.
She mentions Pranayama, which is breath control.
The example Stacy gives is to imagine yourself breathing like Darth Vader (of Star Wars) and you’ll be doing it right.
The third unseen fundamental we learn is the Gaze, the Drishti . This is your focus as you keep your eyes steady.
Overall Grade
I honestly give this Yoga DVD an A+! If I (of all people!) am able to make it through an entire hour of exercise—without it even seeming like an hour has passed!—then I know you all can. I’m still so amazed at how each pose flows harmoniously into another pose until an hour has gone by and you’re wondering where it went!
Namaste,
Michele L. Tune
aka Raw Juice Girl
Upcoming Contests Featuring these Fabulous Companies
- 2 Food Matters DVDs (Haven’t had a chance to watch this one yet, but do check out their site–they have a RAWsome message to share!!)
- Detox 4 Women by Natalia Rose (I read this book last night and it’s awesome; it really helps you understand water retention, etc!)
- Oh Nuts! (raw macadamia nuts and pecans) <— These are seriously delicious nuts–and they’re JUMBO sized!
- E3Live (Green-tasting (which I don’t mind!), but I REALLY notice that it’s making me feel better. It was definitely put to the test through my recent stressful events!)
- 2 books (Coconut Water for Health and Healing
and Oil Pulling Therapy: Detoxifying and Healing the Body Through Oral Cleansing
by Dr. Bruce Fife
- and MORE!
You’ll definitely want to stay tuned!
So… be sure to subscribe to Healing with Juices’ Feed for free updates. You can get free updates to your email as well (sign up here). You’ll also receive inspiration, juice and smoothie recipes, and juice fasting tips and encouragement to help keep you motivated toward your ultimate health–and more personal posts about stuff that’s going on in my life. 
First, I’d love to extend a huge thank you to Amber Dehn (and everyone) at The Bolder Mat Company for sending me an absolutely beautiful yoga mat (pictured below) to review + a yoga DVD, which I’ll review in the next post!
I was ecstatic when I received my yoga mat from The Bolder Mat Company. The bright colors and design are beautiful and it’s thick, cushy, and extra sticky. Check it out!
7th Chakra Heaven Yoga Mat
(2 foot x 6 foot, 1/4 inch thick)
About 7th Chakra Yoga Mat (from the site):
“All seven of the chakra symbols are featured on this beautiful red yoga mat. The chakra orbs with a purple mountainous back ground will be sure to stimulate your energy system!”
Balance and harmonize your energy system with this soothing yoga mat. Featuring all seven of the chakras inside of golden orbs, starting the the Crown Chakra at the top of the yoga mat, in the following order; Crown Chakra, 3rd Eye Chakra, Throat Chakra, Heart Chakra, Solar Plexus Chakra, Sacral Chakra and the Root Chakra.
The yoga mat is red, the chakras are yellow, and the Japanese mountain scene features waterfalls, clouds, and bonsai trees in purple. Find balance and poise as you flow with the ancient energies.
Our Yoga Mats are great for Hot Yoga, Power Yoga, Bikram Yoga, Pre-Natal Yoga…. well, any type of Yoga and Pilates! Because our Yoga Mats are extra thick, phthate and heavy metal free, we are confident that you will love your printed yoga mat!”
Isn’t that awesome??!!
About the Company
The Bolder Mat company (www.theboldermatcompany.com) not only offers quality yoga mats, they offer a variety of other products and services. I’ve brought those options here so you can see for yourself just what a fantabulous job they do!
Donate your old yoga mat
What do you do with your old yoga mat when you get a pretty, new one? Pack it up, and send it to The Bolder Mat Company! They’ll clean and refurbish it and, well, I’ll share their words–they say it best!
From the site:
“When you donate your gently used yoga mat to The Bolder Mat Company, we will clean and refurbish it, and then donate it to yoga-inspired charities across the United States. Your mat will then be used to teach at risk populations about the benefits of yoga. There is no limit on how many mats you can donate… Support your local and international yoga communities by donating your gently used yoga mat and help spread the positive message of yoga throughout the world.”
That is such a worthy donation, y’all–and imagine how good you’d feel after helping a cause like that!
Plus, you’ll receive a “$5 off coupon for any Bolder Mat Company Online Purchase!“ Woo hoo!
Eco-friendly yoga mat bags
Are you interested in doing your part (big or small) to help preserve the environment? If so, you’re going to love this: The Bolder Mat Company offers eco-friendly yoga mats made from T-shirt scraps!
From the site:
This eco-friendly yoga mat bag is made from pre-consumer T-shirts fabric scraps, conserving our precious natural resources: land, water and energy.
How awesome is that? And look at how beautiful that bag is?! Eeeek!
Vegan yoga mat cleaner
This product sounds great, in my opinion. I haven’t personally used it, but I did check out the ingredients. Apparently, it’s made up of “Witch Hazel (obviously! ), a natural disinfectant, peppermint, and other essential oils.
So, it definitely sounds like an eco-friendly, safe and natural yoga mat cleaner!
You can get one-of-a-kind, custom yoga mats from The Bolder Mat Company, and they offer wholesale opportunities as well.
Overall Grade
I give The Bolder Mat Company an A+! Not only are they concerned about our beautiful world, they are actively finding ways to contribute and trying to do their part to preserve it. According to my personal experience with them, they are not focused on making sales and sales alone. While, like any other business I’m sure they appreciate sales, they send a strong message that they care about the environment, us as people, and are genuinely striving to share the health benefits of yoga with the world. That, in my opinion, shows that the eco-friendly minded people who make up The Bolder Mat Company have big hearts, solid character, and are truly passionate about what they do. Way to go, you all!
Upcoming Contests Featuring these Fabulous Companies
- 2 Food Matters DVDs (Haven’t had a chance to watch this one yet, but do check out their site–they have a RAWsome message to share!!)
- Detox 4 Women by Natalia Rose (I read this book last night and it’s awesome; it really helps you understand water retention, etc!)
- Oh Nuts! (raw macadamia nuts and pecans) <— These are seriously delicious nuts–and they’re JUMBO sized!
- E3Live (Green-tasting (which I don’t mind!), but I REALLY notice that it’s making me feel better. It was definitely put to the test through my recent stressful events!)
- 2 books (Coconut Water for Health and Healing
- and MORE!
You’ll definitely want to stay tuned!
So… be sure to subscribe to Healing with Juices’ Feed for free updates. You can get free updates to your email as well (sign up here). You’ll also receive inspiration, juice and smoothie recipes, and juice fasting tips and encouragement to help keep you motivated toward your ultimate health–and more personal posts about stuff that’s going on in my life.
I’m still sticking with Polly’s yoga videos. I love her positive attitude and her style!
I went with Yoga for yummy abs again this morning. I’m going to see how switching things up goes for me. So far, I’ve tried the following of Polly’s videos: Yoga for low back, Yoga for yummy abs, and Yoga for newbies. I love ‘em all!
Let me tell you, although Polly’s yoga videos seem gentle and easy, I’m feeling the soreness, people! Sheesh, who knew?! LOL
I think I’ll take at least one day off each week to let my muscles rest. Maybe two? How many days each week do you practice yoga? Do you take a day or two off?
Breakfast
Anyway, after yoga with Polly, I decided to have a bowl full of frozen blueberries. I absolutely love frozen blueberries! They’re so tasty!
Frozen Blueberries
I drank some herbal tea after that (I didn’t make my warm lemon water this morning). I also had my daily shot of E3 Live.
Lunch
By lunch time, I was starving! My eyes were bigger than my appetite, though, when I made this ginormous salad. LOL
Giant Veggie Salad
Napa cabbage
Spinach leaves
Heirloom lettuce
Sliced celery
Sliced carrots
Sliced beets
Sliced tomato
Diced bell pepper
That was a huge salad and I was only able to eat about half of it. That’s okay, I’ll finish it off as a mid-afternoon snack, or as my dinner. It won’t go to waste!
Snack
I still have some more Amazing Grass products to sample (but couldn’t because I was juice fasting when they arrived) so I thought I’d try out the Chocolate Green SuperFood Drink Powder for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Oh. My. Goodness! It’s DELICIOUS!!!!
(Just click on the photo below to read all about this yummy chocolate superfood powder! )
Amazing Grass Shaker Cup
Added Organic Rice Milk
Added Chocolate SuperFood Powder
All Shook Up
Up Close
Non-Raw Milk?
No, the organic rice milk is NOT raw. I’m not a milk person, really. I have never been one to just guzzle milk–even before my raw food adventures. When I ate the S.A.D. diet, I only used milk on my cereal. I tend to shy away from processed cereals nowadays, so I pretty much don’t use milk at all–not even in my smoothies (I use herbal tea instead).
Anyway, although it will be pretty rare, I may decide to enjoy a treat once in a while that isn’t 100% raw. I’ll let you know when I do, like today with this organic rice milk.
I would have made a smoothie with the chocolate powder, a frozen banana, and some herbal tea but my blender died on me. So, I remembered Jenna saying she just added the Amazing Grass chocolate powder to her shaker cup with rice milk so I just went for it–I’m so glad I did! I’m telling you, it’s soooooooooooooooooo good!!! Yum!
Dinner
For dinner, I had the other half of my salad from lunch. And now I’m ready to call it a night. Can’t wait for yoga in the morning!!
Off-Topic:
I’ve mentioned before that I’m a freelance writer. I write about all sorts of things, including writing! Check out my latest post over at The Writer’s Round-About: 7 Tips for Getting that Writing Gig Without an English Degree.
Coming next: various foods I’ve eaten when breaking other juice fasts I’ve been on, and also why I don’t incorporate vegetable broth into my juice fasting regimen like some juice fasters do. <—– I am working on this post!! 
You’ll definitely want to stay tuned!
So… be sure to subscribe to Healing with Juices’ Feed for free updates. You can get free updates to your email as well (sign up here). You’ll also receive inspiration, juice and smoothie recipes, and juice fasting tips and encouragement to help keep you motivated toward your ultimate health–and more personal posts about stuff that’s going on in my life. 
Wow, today was day 4 of my yoga journey. It’s crazy that I love it this much! I can’t get enough! But I’m taking my time so I don’t strain or hurt myself. I have to be careful with my back.
Speaking of back, I did a new video today: Yoga for low back by Polly at Yoga is Yummy. It was totally awesome. My back really did feel better afterward!
YogaDownload.com
Both Cindy and Jocelyn have mentioned yogadownload.com, so I checked it out and downloaded a beginner’s class: Gentle Hatha Yoga #1. I haven’t tried that class yet, but I will!
After my morning yoga, I remembered to make my favorite morning drink.
Warm Lemon Water
After I drank that, I got busy with laundry, dishes, etc., and forgot to eat!
Snack
Around noon, I wasn’t really hungry so I thought I’d just have a banana and sample some of the raw products Premier Organics sent me to review. (More about this fantabulous company and their organic, raw products in an upcoming post–and contest!!!)
Premier Organics Samples
1 banana, sliced and served with
raw pecan nut butter
raw macadamia nut butter
raw cacao bliss
Yum!
Macadamia nuts are my favorite nut ever, so of course I had a conniption over the macadamia nut butter. Pecans are my next favorite nut, so I chose it to sample on my banana as well. And, how can you go wrong with cacao bliss (aka raw chocolate)??!! Oh my gosh, y’all, these nut butters and the cacao bliss RAWKS! Soooooooooooooo tasty–and good for you!!!
Mid-Afternoon Snack
A little while later, I still wasn’t really hungry so I thought I’d drink my other juice from yesterday in my E3 Live shaker cup, with a scoop of Amazing Grass (I prefer my E3 Live liquid straight up ).
Dinner
I was craving a yummy salad for dinner, so I threw this together…
A little of each of the following:
Napa cabbage
heirloom lettuce
sliced celery
sliced carrots
diced bell pepper
baby tomatoes
fresh blueberries
Check It Out!
And I leave you with this: When I went to read Choosing Raw today, I discovered Gena had written a guest post for Fitness NYC. I knew it’d be great, but I didn’t realize it’d really be so relevant to this last few days of my own journey with yoga. I knew the post was about yoga. She mentioned it in her short post. I didn’t know it would be so touching, so beautiful, so true! You have to read this post. It’s fantabulous!
Coming next: various foods I’ve eaten when breaking other juice fasts I’ve been on, and also why I don’t incorporate vegetable broth into my juice fasting regimen like some juice fasters do. <—– I am working on this post!!
You’ll definitely want to stay tuned!
So… be sure to subscribe to Healing with Juices’ Feed for free updates. You can get free updates to your email as well (sign up here). You’ll also receive inspiration, juice and smoothie recipes, and juice fasting tips and encouragement to help keep you motivated toward your ultimate health–and more personal posts about stuff that’s going on in my life.
I can’t believe this is day 3 of my yoga adventures and I’m still excited about it–I LOVE it!
This morning, I did the video called Yoga for Yummy Abs by Polly from Yoga is Yummy.
I did the cobra pose, too! Fantabulous, people!
I was hesitant to try a different video. I’m trying to be very careful with my (bad) back. But, while I could really feel the yoga poses and stretches burning and using my muscles, it was a good, warm burning and relaxing experience. I’m just madly in love with yoga!
After my date with yoga, I had breakfast:
Blueberry-Kiwi Salad
1 whole kiwi, peeled + sliced
handful frozen blueberries
Yum-O!
I also had some herbal tea and, of course, added a tablespoon of organic apple cider vinegar to one of my glasses of water.
About mid-morning, I had my daily shot….
E3 Live Brain On
I think the Brain On formula tastes just a little stronger (or a little different) than the original E3 Live I’ve tried but it’s definitely do-able for me. You could always disguise the taste (if it’s too strong–aka green–for you) in a smoothie or juice. I just take a tablespoon straight up. What? I love my greens–and I’m lovin’ how it makes me feel: clear-minded and mentally alert!
Juicy Ingredients!
4 small heirloom organic beets, with leaves (from my garden)
3 organic carrots
2 heirloom organic cucumbers (from my garden)
small apple
2 handfuls spinach
handful Alfalfa sprouts
1-inch piece of ginger
medium heirloom organic bell pepper (from my garden)
1 whole kiwi, peeled
Raw Beauty!
Juice Pulp
(Looks Like Confetti!)
Yummy Juices
Raw Lunch
1 celery stalk, cut up
1 carrot, cut up
shaker cup full of today’s juicy concoction
+ a scoop of berry flavored Amazing Grass SuperFood powder
(To learn more about this berry-licious superfood powder, click on the photo below! )
Snack
I had another carrot and another celery stalk (I was craving carrots and celery today! LOL)
And…. some of the juiciest, most delicious…
Organic Cherries
Dinner
I thought about having my other juice in the place of my dinner but then I had an overwhelming craving for the following spinach-based salad. I absolutely adore baby spinach leaves–they’re my favorite veggie! I love them raw, in juices, in smoothies, in salads… you get my point.
Oh-So-Good Salad
generous handful of baby spinach leaves
heirloom organic cucumber slices (from my garden)
generous handful of fresh blueberries
Manitoba Harvest hemp seeds (Yum!)
2 stalks heirloom organic okra, sliced
Have you ever eaten okra raw? It’s delicious! I’m serious! The above combo is absolutely YUM! What’s your favorite salad combo? Do share!
Coming next: various foods I’ve eaten when breaking other juice fasts I’ve been on, and also why I don’t incorporate vegetable broth into my juice fasting regimen like some juice fasters do.
You’ll definitely want to stay tuned!
So… be sure to subscribe to Healing with Juices’ Feed for free updates. You can get free updates to your email as well (sign up here). You’ll also receive inspiration, juice and smoothie recipes, and juice fasting tips and encouragement to help keep you motivated toward your ultimate health–and more personal posts about stuff that’s going on in my life.
Hi, y’all!
I hope you enjoyed my reflections on the 30-day juice fast.
I started my day out with yoga again this morning. I love it!
I took Cindy‘s advice and stuck with the Yoga for Newbies video.
I’m learning about different poses and how (majorly) important breathing is!
This new yoga journey is sooooooooooooooo exciting!
Okay, now for raw eats throughout today:
- handful of heirloom, organic banana peppers (from my garden)
- a green apple
- a not-so-delicious plum
- a handful of organic dark cherries (Yum!)
- a handful of raw, unsalted nuts/seeds
- small handful of grapes
- half of a (big) carrot
(I know that doesn’t really seem like a lot of food, but when I’ve been juice fasting I’m not that hungry once I start eating again.)
I also drank lots of herbal tea with lemon. (I forgot my warm lemon water this morning, though!)
My blender died on me, so no green monsters for a while. And (shame on me!) I didn’t have a raw juice, either! I’m making time tomorrow to juice some raw goodness and absorb all those living enzymes, vitamins, and nutrients my body absolutely loves.
Do you enjoy yoga as part of your exercise routine? What’s your favorite part about yoga: the stretching, the relaxing, the benefits? Do you combine the raw food diet, raw juices, or raw juice fasting with yoga? Who is your favorite yoga instructor? What’s your favorite type of yoga to practice? Tell us all about it!
Coming next: various foods I’ve eaten when breaking other juice fasts I’ve been on, and also why I don’t incorporate vegetable broth into my juice fasting regimen like some juice fasters do.
You’ll definitely want to stay tuned!
So… be sure to subscribe to Healing with Juices’ Feed for free updates. You can get free updates to your email as well (sign up here). You’ll also receive inspiration, juice and smoothie recipes, and juice fasting tips and encouragement to help keep you motivated toward your ultimate health–and more personal posts about stuff that’s going on in my life.
Photo Credit:
Today (day 28 of this 30-day juice fast) started like any other day: by drinking warm lemon water.
Then my mind started wandering…
Yummy Yoga
I’ve mentioned recently that I have been researching yoga. Many of you have recommended I try it as a healing exercise for my bad back. So, I’ve been reading blog posts and articles about it and also watching videos.
Anyway, it dawned on me! I have a yoga mat in a box out in the shed! So, I went traipsing across the farm to get it. And then it happened: I opened the shed door, saw my yoga mat box, reached in to get it, and out of the blue was attacked by a swarm of the biggest, nastiest, meanest red wasps! Ouch!!!
Wicked Wasps!
I was stung several times on my arm, hand, neck, and leg. It was craziness! They were even all in my hair. I couldn’t believe it! You better believe I did a little (okay, a LOT) of screaming and dancing. (It’s okay if this mental picture makes you laugh.) It really was painful, though. Seriously!
I came in the house and when I told my Mom, she rushed me over to the neighbor’s house (he smokes) and he donated 2 cigarettes worth of tobacco. He put it in a bowl and added water and then my Mom put it on the places I’d been stung and held it there. My skin was already swelling bigtime, but the tobacco really helped shrink it quickly.
When we got back home, I poured myself a glass of herbal tea and added lemon. I needed a refreshing break!
Since it seemed like I was going to be okay, and the swelling had gone down considerably, we decided to go ahead and leave to run the errands we’d planned on pre-wasp attack.
I made myself an iced, herbal tea to-go (with lemon) and grabbed a to-go bottle filled with water and a tablespoon of organic apple cider vinegar and hit the road.
School Time?
And here’s the highlight of my day…
I was standing at the counter in a store with my mom and brother. And an older man walks over. He decided to make small talk: “So, are you gearing up for school to start?” He asks, enthusiastically.
I looked around to see if he was talking to me. No one else was there, so he must have asked me if I was getting ready for school. Huh?
“You mean me?” I asked, shocked.
“Yes, are you ready to go back to school?”
Okay, I’m thinking the wasp venom must have gone to my brain because I couldn’t fathom that this man was honestly asking me if I was preparing to go back to school!
“Sir, I’m almost 34 years old.” I smiled.
Total shock bombarded his face. “No, I don’t believe it!” He gasped.
Folks, I had to show him the birth date on my driver’s license!
“I thought you were 17 years old!” He said–after he was finally able to talk again.
“My daughter is an English teacher here. I thought she’d be teaching you.”
How funny is that?! LOL
“All I can say, girl, is that life has treated you well.” He said, shaking his head and smiling. (Could it be my diet and the raw juices and fasting????)
“Actually, I am a survivor of domestic violence. I barely escaped with my life. I’ve also been through many other things.”
But, yes, I am truly blessed.
And…. since I didn’t have photos of juices today, I’ll leave you with a few photos from my garden.
Heirloom Watermelon
Heirloom Cantaloupe
Heirloom Cucumber
(These are all doubling and tripling in size due to the rain the past few days!!) Eeeek!
I didn’t squeeze in my E3 Live or Amazing Grass powder today and I ended up just drinking water and herbal tea–it was too hectic and crazy!
Oh, and on the way home, we stopped and bought some chewing tobacco. Yep, how funny is that?! Know what kind? Long cut natural (next time I’ll get short cut!)
Until tomorrow… happy juicing!
Don’t forget to catch up on my 30-day juice fast…
Day 1 of a 30-Day Juice Fast and Juicer Mishaps
Day 2 of a 30-Day Juice Fast–and AMAZING GRASS!!
Day 4 + Wheat Grass Galore + a Juicer!!
Day 8, Let’s Talk About Weight!
Day 11, Grapefruit Juice Heaven!
Day 15 + Living Tree Community Contest Winner!
Day 16 + Books by Dr. Bruce Fife
Day 17 + Green Pineapple Juice
Day 19 + July 4th Celebrations!!
Upcoming Contests Featuring these Fabulous Companies
- 2 books by Nomi Shannon, The Raw Gourmet (These two books have GORGEOUS photos and the recipes are amazing!
- 2 Food Matters DVDs (Haven’t had a chance to watch this one yet, but do check out their site–they have a RAWsome message to share!!)
- Detox 4 Women by Natalia Rose (I read this book last night and it’s awesome; it really helps you understand water retention, etc!)
- Oh Nuts! (raw macadamia nuts and pecans) <— These are seriously delicious nuts–and they’re JUMBO sized!
- E3Live (Green-tasting (which I don’t mind!), but I REALLY notice that it’s making me feel better. It was definitely put to the test through my recent stressful events!)
- 2 books (Coconut Water for Health and Healing
- and MORE!
You’ll definitely want to stay tuned!
So… be sure to subscribe to Healing with Juices’ Feed for free updates. You can get free updates to your email as well (sign up here). You’ll also receive inspiration, juice and smoothie recipes, and juice fasting tips and encouragement to help keep you motivated toward your ultimate health–and more personal posts about stuff that’s going on in my life. 
It’s always fun to come across cool contests across the Web. I thought I’d share a few with you that I know about. Be sure to hurry and enter these, they end soon!
- Yoga Love Giveaway (ends July 13th)
- Ginormous (House-Warming) Giveaway (ends July 13th)
- Juicy Beauty Products (ends July 13th)
- Crofter’s Superfruit Spread (ends July 17th)
I am also gearing up for lots more reviews and contests right here on HealingwithJuices.com, so be sure to keep reading below…
Upcoming Contests Featuring these Fabulous Companies
- 2 books by Nomi Shannon, The Raw Gourmet (These two books have GORGEOUS photos and the recipes are amazing!
- 2 Food Matters DVDs (Haven’t had a chance to watch this one yet, but do check out their site–they have a RAWsome message to share!!)
- Detox 4 Women by Natalia Rose (I read this book last night and it’s awesome; it really helps you understand water retention, etc!)
- Oh Nuts! (raw macadamia nuts and pecans) <— These are seriously delicious nuts–and they’re JUMBO sized!
- E3Live (Green-tasting (which I don’t mind!), but I REALLY notice that it’s making me feel better. It was definitely put to the test through my recent stressful events!)
- 2 books (Coconut Water for Health and Healing
- and MORE!
You’ll definitely want to stay tuned!
So… be sure to subscribe to Healing with Juices’ Feed for free updates. You can get free updates to your email as well (sign up here). You’ll also receive inspiration, juice and smoothie recipes, and juice fasting tips and encouragement to help keep you motivated toward your ultimate health–and more personal posts about stuff that’s going on in my life.
dd
I’ve mentioned before that I suffer from back pain (because of injuries from domestic violence) and I have received quite a bit of feedback/emails/comments suggesting I try yoga to strengthen my core and for possible healing benefit to my back. Well, I’m always game to try something new, healthy, beneficial, and that will make me feel better! So, I have been seriously enjoying Polly’s yoga videos. I love her soothing voice, her friendly, down-to-earth way of teaching, and her passion for living a healthy, good life!!
As I’ve searched through her videos, I came across this one for the lower back. I haven’t tried it yet but I wanted to share it with you right away…
More of Polly’s (free) yoga videos can be seen here at her Yoga is Yummy blog. You can also order Polly’s Yoga is Yummy video!! Not sure you want to buy a yoga video yet? Check out what folks are saying about Polly as a yoga teacher! (I love Polly’s cartoon!!! )
Is yoga part of your exercise routine? Did it help you with back problems? Did it help you lose weight? Tell me all about it!
Don’t forget to catch up on my 30-day juice fast…
Day 1 of a 30-Day Juice Fast and Juicer Mishaps
Day 2 of a 30-Day Juice Fast–and AMAZING GRASS!!
Day 4 + Wheat Grass Galore + a Juicer!!
Day 8, Let’s Talk About Weight!
Day 11, Grapefruit Juice Heaven!
Day 15 + Living Tree Community Contest Winner!
Day 16 + Books by Dr. Bruce Fife
Day 17 + Green Pineapple Juice
Day 19 + July 4th Celebrations!!
Upcoming Contests Featuring these Fabulous Companies
- 2 books by Nomi Shannon, The Raw Gourmet (These two books have GORGEOUS photos and the recipes are amazing!
- 2 Food Matters DVDs (Haven’t had a chance to watch this one yet, but do check out their site–they have a RAWsome message to share!!)
- Detox 4 Women by Natalia Rose (I read this book last night and it’s awesome; it really helps you understand water retention, etc!)
- Oh Nuts! (raw macadamia nuts and pecans) <— These are seriously delicious nuts–and they’re JUMBO sized!
- E3Live (Green-tasting (which I don’t mind!), but I REALLY notice that it’s making me feel better. It was definitely put to the test through my recent stressful events!)
- 2 books (Coconut Water for Health and Healing
- and MORE!
You’ll definitely want to stay tuned!
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