by Tara Mackey | Blogroll, Happiness, Health
We all know how important it is to give our bodies a break from “toxic” food and alcohol, but what about giving ourselves a break from toxic attitudes? Just like any toxic thing—like food or poison—toxic people are extremely dangerous. They distract us from our positive or productive habits. They’ll be the people who discourage you from exercise or make fun of you for wanting to be a better person. They’ll come up with reasons for you to stay in other bad relationships. Toxic people get you stuck in the past and focused on the negative, and in that mentality, you can’t move forward and you can’t succeed. It is impossible for them to share in your joy.
It’s worth noting that there is a difference between people who are truly toxic to your well-being and people who have a negative outlook because they struggle with depression. It’s important to let friends and family members who suffer from clinical depression know that you love and support them, not cut them out of your life. But interacting with toxic people who constantly cut you down or manipulate you to their own advantage can take a toll on your own mental health. And yet, it can be difficult to distance yourself from them.
Toxic people can try to cling on—sometimes for years! They can make you feel guilty and because of that, are not always easy to remove from your life. To help you detox your relationships once and for all, here are her tips for getting rid of harmful personalities.
1. IDENTIFY THE TOXICITY.
The first step of getting rid of something—or someone—toxic is actually recognizing the fact that it’s harming you. Toxic people are manipulative and often selfish. They’re difficult to please and impossible to work with, even when you’re trying to help them. They have a hard time owning their feelings or apologizing, and they will consistently make you prove yourself to them.
If a relationship is weighing on you constantly or bringing you down significantly more than it’s building you up, it’s time to let go. Toxic people are a distraction from your true purpose.
2. BE FIRM.
Toxins have to be met with a powerful force. It’s likely that they won’t just respond to ‘Go away,’ and will perhaps even dig their claws in deeper if you try to create a separation. Don’t let this discourage you. Be very, very clear with the person about your intentions, then keep the necessary distance to make sure your message isn’t misconstrued.
3. SET BOUNDARIES…
… and stick with them. Stick with your boundaries long-term or [toxic people] will use any weakness over time to sneak back into your life. If you told yourself you wouldn’t respond to their texts, don’t. Block their number and block them on all social media. Don’t send them any e-mails and don’t check in six months from now. Once you’ve made the decision to end a relationship, you’re responsible for keeping the guidelines clear after the fact.
4. DON’T BE TOO NICE.
It may sound harsh, but since toxic people tend to take advantage of any kindness that’s imparted on them, being overly nice can be detrimental. Realize that they get their energy from draining your loving, good nature. They thrive on your trust and kindness. It doesn’t mean you have to be cruel (to paraphrase Michelle Obama, when they go low, you want to go high), but you should stop going out of your way to be overly accommodating.
5. REALIZE IT’S NOT YOUR JOB TO SAVE THEM.
Toxic people are great at showing up when they need something, particularly during crisis moments in their own lives. They’ll ask for a shoulder to cry on or an ear for you to lend. They may disguise it as wanting advice. All of these are ploys for your time and attention. Do not give in to them, no matter the circumstance.
If things are truly dire for your friend, you can direct him to resources that specialize in his particular issues. Solving his problems is not only not your responsibility, it’s likely beyond your capabilities.
6. KNOW THAT WHEN IT’S DONE, IT’S DONE.
Toxic people will keep coming back if you let them, so when you decide to say goodbye, make sure you’re ready to make it permanent. They will always find a way to create a problem or drama in your life. When you’ve decided to move on, move on for good.
If the toxic person is family, and it’s therefore impossible to make a clean break, you can still establish clear limits for your interactions (be it, we will only speak on the phone once a month or you will only visit during the holidays).
7. TREAT YOUR SEPARATION LIKE THE BREAKUP IT IS.
Yes, we need relationships, but we don’t need every relationship—especially ones that bring us more pain than support. Energy flows where attention goes. The more selective you are about where your focus is, the more successful you’ll be. The more time you spend away from toxic people, the more time you have for yourself and the people that are positive, uplifting, and important to you. Make time for people who bring you happiness, and let go of those who bring you anything less.
This piece was written by Zoe Weiner for Mental Floss and features a lot of commentary by yours truly.
It was originally shared on Mental Floss + MSN.
by Tara Mackey | Beauty, Blogroll, Featured, Health
You guys may remember last year when I judged The Glamour Beauty Awards.
It was SO amazing to nominate + assess the Natural & Organic category for Glamour Magazine ( let’s face it’s – it’s amazing that there even IS a Natural & Organic category at all!)
I felt such a sense of pride to see so many familiar names and faces.
I truly feel like we all started this journey together (many of the companies nominated have popped up in the last decade or so), and it’s been amazing to watch a few of the awesome brands that I once found on Etsy taking their rightful place in the beauty cabinets of women worldwide.
I had a blast, and for months to come whenever I’d connect with a certain brand owner or two, they’d go,
“Oh heeeey! I know you!! You’re the one who nominated us for best lipstick!!!”
or
“Aren’t you the girl who voted us Best Sunscreen in Glamour?!”
Yup.
That was me.
Well, I had the privilege of being asked to do it again this year!
Cue happy dance and confetti!!
I am also in this months issue of Glamour Magazine! Page 88 🙂
I am so excited to share my favorites in Natural & Organic!
Check out Glamour’s full list here and explore mine below:
BEST SUNSCREEN: BABO BOTANICALS (only $8.95!)
This was one of my favorite picks and Glamour featured it! This formula not only provides great sun coverage, it also contains avocado and jojoba oils along with organic shea butter—which is high in fatty acids, so it moisturizes and hydrates skin.
BEST LIPSTICK: KJAER WEIS
BEST MULTI-TASKER: RMS BEAUTY MAGIC LUMINIZER
BEST MIST: ODACITE ROSE + NEROLI TREATMENT MIST
BEST LIP COLOR: 100% PURE MATTE LIPSTICKS
BEST MOISTURIZER: ODACITE BEAUTIFUL DAY MOISTURIZER
BEST DEODORANT SPRAY: EO SPRAY
BEST DEODORANT CREAM: AGENT NATEUR
BEST BODY PRODUCT: UMA OIL BODY OIL
BEST BODY OIL: GENETIX ORGANIC ENHANCEMENT OIL
BEST CLEANSER: PAI SKINCARE CAMELLIA & ROSE CLEANSER
BEST MASCARA: LILY LOLO MASCARA
BEST SERUM OR OIL: MV ROSE PLUS BOOSTER
THE BEST FACE MASK: TATA HARPER PURIFYING MASK
BEST SHAMPOO: RARE ELEMENTS SHAMPOO
BEST HAIR TREATMENT: JOSH ROSEBROOK NOURISH CONDITIONER
BEST CONDITIONER: RARE ELEMENTS ESSENTIAL CONDITIONER
BEST MAKEUP POWDER: RMS “UN” POWDER
Love you guys!
Thanks for tuning in all these years and for always making the healthiest choice!
Big thank you Glamour for giving Natural + Organic brands the highlight they deserve!
Also, if you want to check out my other Top Picks, they’re organized by category now! Just scroll to the top of the blog and check them out!
xoxo
Tara
by Tara Mackey | Beauty, Blogroll, Green Beauty, Health
Want bigger breasts but don’t want implants? How about a tighter tummy without liposuction? Are you looking for enhancements to your body that have no downtime and don’t include invasive surgery?
One of the most common questions I get asked is “Are there natural alternatives to botox, fillers and plastic surgery? And if so, what in the world are they?”
There are a variety of body sculpting techniques to help you achieve your desired affect. They’re safe, surgery-free and in many cases – even organic! Here are my favorite different types of natural body enhancement currently available today:
According to the FDA, “Breast implants are not lifetime devices. You may need to have one or more re-operations over the course of your life due to any combination of local complications.” In fact, over 43,000 implant removals and 108,000 breast reconstructions were performed in 2015 alone!
Last year, I looked for natural ways to enhance my body.
What I gained (surprisingly easily) was two full cup sizes AND a huge wake up call that you CAN enlarge, enhance, tone, firm and shape your breasts – without surgery!
Your breasts are an important component of your femininity, and you should always feel like they are beautiful. This enhancement oil allows women to receive the breast enhancement they desire without extensive surgery and long recovery times. Their breasts remain their own, only larger and fuller. It’s the ideal treatment for women who want a boost in confidence. (PS Use code STAYWEIRD for 25% off!)
Sound a little hokey? I’d never heard of this ritual either, before a little research! But the reviews on Genetix are undeniable and glowing (you can also check their adorable instagram for the latest babes raving!) Turns out this beauty ritual has been around since the days of Cleopatra! I am SO happy I discovered this oil, because with their risk-free return policy, I had nothing to lose and everything to gain!
This organic oil is a doctor recommended top choice and a #1 bestseller for a good reason: my goal of achieving a natural breast augmentation, perky side boob and a natural lift went from daunting and disappointing to EASY – and fun! This beneficial treatment is one that can transform the contours of the body and the breasts.
I am ALWAYS testing products as part of my job for the books I write (I even judged the Glamour Magazine Beauty Awards 2016 & 2017!) I’ve tried DOZENS of products for this purpose and this oil is the only one I really believe in!
It’s absolutely the easiest and most effective way to boost your cup size.
Once I started incorporating this organic massage into my nightly routine, I saw serious results overnight. That’s why I am SO passionate about it!
My fiancé and friends noticed immediately. My bras filled out, then got too small to wear comfortably. My boobs started to bounce when I walked up and down the stairs. Cleavage was miraculously added to the (previously bare) tops of all my shirts, dresses and workout gear. After just a few days, I was really feeling myself.
A little research confirmed that we should actually be doing this daily beauty ritual every single day – and many people are!
From little ladies with an A cup saying they woke up to noticeably bigger boobs the first two days, to momma’s using it to help stretch marks after nursing, to girls saying it helped to ease PMS, PCOS and PMDD symptoms (sign me up, girlfriend!!). Even women who’ve already chosen to get implants absolutely LOVE it!
There’s a reason why every woman in the World has to try this awesome beauty ritual.
How do I know?
Personally, I had to share this because it helped me to increase 2 full cup sizes – and the effects have been long-term! Use code STAYWEIRD for a huge discount that also includes worldwide, same day + free shipping! How great is that?! Just like Amazon Prime – but with customer service! 😉
Check it out…
BEFORE:
AFTER:
Pro Tip: Take in combination with this herb for fastest results!
LIP FILLERS:
Is there a natural way to get the top trend, #KylieJennerLips – without using #KylieJennerMethods. Kylie admitted to using lip fillers a few years ago, which are full of toxins and also need to be kept up with every few weeks. Side effects include permanent scarring, asymmetrical lips, nerve damage and infection.
These three methods act as a natural lip plumper. They are not expensive and have no side effects, so use them without any hesitation:
- Organic Peppermint Lip Balm – for a full, pouty look and a natural plump. Apply before bed at night and allow it to work overnight, then re-apply throughout the day. Peppermint naturally helps to improve blood circulation in lips. When you apply it directly to your lips it creates a slightly swelling, and your lips also become tinted rosy red naturally. However, direct oil can irritate them, so an organic lip balm is a great alternative!
- Cinnamon – Exfoliate your lips once a day with cinnamon and salt. Another way is to just add cinnamon powder and a tiny amount to olive or almond oil, mix them well, apply it. Wait for 5 to 10 minutes, then rinse it off. Wasabi also works for this purpose!
- Cupping – if you’re already cupping, congrats! You know what the heck I’m talking about! If you do not already know, lip cupping is a 100% natural method for lip enlargement. Its concept derives from an ancient suction method known as ‘Cupping’- which may date back to as far as 3,500 years ago. This involves an esthetician using a small “cup” on your lips and pumping. In the long-run, your lips may stay naturally enlarged with daily use of a cupping set. Please begin by asking your dermatologist or acupuncturist to use the smallest one on you and to instruct you on how you may be able to do it safely at home. The clinical trials done with lip cupping showed that lip size increased by 36% from base-line lip size after 60 days of twice daily applications for 2 minutes each time. I do this once a week and have definitely seen great results!
BUTT ENLARGEMENT/LIFT:
According to the 2015 report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), butt implants and lifts are the fastest-growing types of plastic surgery in the United States. The trend started in 2014 (AKA ‘the year of the booty’), and is clearly here to stay: On average, there was some sort of butt procedure every 30 minutes of every day in 2015. Say what?!
I totally get it: those famous fannies are worth envying. But you don’t need surgery to score a toned rear end. Just like with every other body part, the right body products and workout can sculpt you in ways you never thought possible! I’ve learned this the easy way – with a lot of booty to prove it!
Get started with these Major Booty-Boosting Moves. And if you totally hate traditional lower-body exercises (me! hi!) the 14 Day Fitness Plan is for you!
Pro Tip: Apply an organic oil like Genetix nightly to enhance the growth and division of fat cells! It contains natural phytoestrogen-dominant herbs like zhi mu, which naturally enhances curves!
EYES/FACELIFT:
Facelift surgeries were down 4% in 2015. This is because after the surgery became popular in 2011-2013, long-term complication began to arise for those patients. Some experienced permanent nerve damage, permanent face twitches, sagging skin, serious infections and more.
What if I told you that you can make your face seem younger, tighter and brighter – totally naturally?
One of my favorite tricks to taking ten years off my face is a good pair of lash extensions. Lash extensions can lift your face and change your entire look. I know this sounds a little crazy, but it’s SO true! Longer lashes in general can make your face look so much different. One of my friends is a big fan of the Xlash eyelash serum, she said she’s really noticed a difference in the length of her eyelashes and the way she looks. This just shows that, no matter how it’s done, longer eyelashes can make you feel so much more confident. Personally, I love lash extensions. However, some people might want to try a more natural method of enhancing their eyelashes.
Without extensions ^^
With extensions ^^
The first time I got them done by my girl Emily, I almost cried because my face had not looked that youthful in over ten years! Lashes can “lift” the face visually and draw attention to your eyes – instead of to the areas around them. They make you look healthy and I always feel like Scarlet O’Hara when I get them done!
(^^^ the struggle without them is real!!! I will NEVER go back!)
Plus, lash extensions are safer and honestly – they are far superior to glue-on lashes (which I could NEVER do, especially on a daily basis) and mascara. I have a full post on my lash extension experience over the last few months coming soon – I did the deep dive on this one for you guys! SO keep a look out for that!
If you’re in San Diego, get your “natural face lift” from Emily. She’s an absolute pro and doesn’t take 3 hours to do your lashes like 99.9% of other lash artists. Tell her I sent you for BOMB pricing and a great discount!
Another way to give yourself a natural face lift is to wear braids. Hear me out here. I recently got them done and BOY did my face love it! It literally pulls the skin on your face back (with your hair), giving you a youthful look and letting you show off your skin. I absolutely loved braids and will definitely be rocking this look far more often:
TUMMY TUCK:
Abdominoplasty-sometimes called “tummy tuck”-has a higher risk of major complications than other cosmetic plastic surgery procedures, reports a study in the November issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery®, the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).
Want a nip and tuck effects (without the nip and tuck?!) These days, there are trainers-pros at toning up their clients head to toe-who also specialize in particular body parts, such as the abdomen and stomach. I’ve studied from some of the best and created a workout plan that can be done at home. This plan focuses on toning and firming your entire body, with a focus on enhancing the butt and toning up the belly.
Many people decide to try different types of exercise and workouts to try and get their desired body shape. For some people, regardless of how much they exercise, they won’t see the outcomes that this should bring and they may have no other option than to look for something similar to this tummy tuck surgery in Tulsa to help improve their self-confidence. You should always try exercising first as you may be surprised by the results that it could bring, but always be aware that, even if other people don’t agree with it, that there are other options available to you to get your perfect body.
The results can be as effective as a tummy tuck – or even lipo! Those who get surgery have to keep up with exercise any way. This is the only way that your abs will last long-term and is much safer than surgery.
Questions? Comments? Love?
by Tara Mackey | Blogroll, Health
Dusting. Sounds like something your parents warned you about in grade school.
Turns out it’s the hottest (and easiest!) wellness trend!
I’ve been sneaking dusts (that is: earthy herbs, beautifying flowers and superior vitamins that release plant based, powerful medicine straight into your system) into my teas, kombucha and smoothies for almost six years! So when Moon Juice specifically customized these powerful (and might I say adorable!) superfood medicines to help you combat different ailments, I was immediately hooked. It’s so genius.
These delicious dusts work synergistically at the deepest levels to enhance your beauty, brain, body, sexual energy, sleep and spirit. Transformative formulas are alchemized with the most potent organic and wild-crafted herbs, adaptogenic plants, and bioactive minerals available. No woo-woo here. Check out some of the impressive ingredients for each formula below. Super nourishing and top-of-the-line elements that truly support the body – and pack the punch they promise.
Simply add these botanical blends to your daily routine to aid your body in adapting to physical, mental and environmental stress. They can be tasty or tasteless (depending on how you prepare them!) and they’re the best way to feel balanced. Here’s why I’m obsessed: each type of dust has been curated for it’s different natural wellness properties, such as beauty, sleep, adrenaline support and more!
I love how customizable and travel-size they are. Just pop one in your purse and you’re good to go. The multi-pack is a great way to get acquainted with each choice. For instance, I use my long-time staple Beauty Dust in my morning tea, sip on Power Dust throughout the day and I make a hot tea with a tablespoon of Dream Dust as my nightcap. The possibilities are endless!
HOW TO USE YOUR DUSTS:
- Add one teaspoon to 8 oz of any hot or cold liquid.
- Delicious with nut milk water or tea.
- Makes anywhere from 25 – 50 servings depending on taste and desired level of potency.
- Don’t be afraid to double dose!
WHICH DUST IS FOR YOU?
SPIRIT DUST: A spirit medicine designed to feed harmony and extra sensory perception through pineal gland de-calcification and activation. This dust helps to sustain the physical body, uniting the mind and spirit to enhance an overall sense of confidence, awareness and appreciation. (INGREDIENTS: Wildcrafted: Goji, Reishi, Longan, Astragalus, Salvia, Stevia)
SEX DUST: This aphrodisiac warming potion will send waves of blood to all the right places. Sex Dust is a holistic approach to deeply enjoyable sex and fertility for both men and women, supporting brain chemistry, hormone production, as well as glandular and fluid replenishment. Creates a lusty state of mind that will increase sexual vigor and adventurousness. Sends waves of sensitivity + power to all the places you need it. (INGREDIENTS: Wildcrafted: Epimedium, Ho Sho Wu, Schizandra, Cistanche, Shilajit, Maca, Cacao, Lo Han Guo, Stevia)
POWER DUST: Utilizes an ancient formula to support peak performance, stamina and longevity while aiding in a healthy recovery from intense workouts. Supports your peak performance, stamina and longevity, while aiding in healthy recovery. Imbibe this athletic, adaptogenic potion to regulate the body’s vital energy, healthy metabolic function and maximize your ability to withstand stress and injury. (INGREDIENTS: Organic Astragalus, Ginseng, Organic Eleuthero, Organic Schisandra, Rhodiola, Organic Stevia)
DREAM DUST: Primes you for beauty sleep with a special formula alchemized to lull you into a deep, calming sleep that will leave you feeling revitalized + refreshed. This nightcap tranquilizes blood flow, promotes natural melatonin release and stabilizes REM. As you sleep soundly your pancreas and liver are gently led to a nocturnal detox. (INGREDIENTS: Wildcrafted: Polygala, Chamomile, Zizyphus Spinoza, Schizandra, Lo Han Guo, Stevia)
BRAIN DUST: An adaptogenic potion that lights up your brain and increases mental flow by feeding neurotransmitters and brain tissue. Neuron velocity and vision are fine tuned by toning the brain waves, in particular the alpha waves that connect to creativity. (INGREDIENTS: Wildcrafted: Rhodiola, Astragalus, Gingko, Lion’s Mane, Shilajit, Maca, Lo Han Guo, Stevia.)
BEAUTY DUST: An ancient empiric formula that calms the nerves, increases collagen and silica production and tones and firms tissue, while hydrating and fortifying skin, hair, nails and cell membranes from the inside out. (INGREDIENTS: Wildcrafted: Pearl, Goji, Schizandra, Rehmannia, Lo Han Guo, Stevia)
DO YOU DUST? WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU:
by Tara Mackey | Blogroll, Health, Skincare
The healthy beauty market went from 0 to 100 real quick. With so many options out there today, it’s difficult to pin down exactly which healthy beauty products you should spend your hard-earned money on. Today, I’ve narrowed down my healthiest must-have’s to 5 products that you need to own. Now you can consider yourself the ultimate feminine health guru!
No matter what oils or toners you use, there is one extra step to a great complexion: a glow that comes from the inside, out. Vitex not only gives you a killer glow, but it can help with all kinds of feminine health problems like PCOS, PMS, Endometriosis, Fibromyalgia, cystic acne, hormonal acne, thyroid issues and more. It’s also been reported to improve female fertility, promote lactation and lower menopause symptoms. It’s a preventive medicine MUST for every woman! This supplement is beauty in a bottle. Check out the overwhelmingly great reviews!
No beauty ritual is complete without a jade roller! It’s an amazing way to roll organic oils onto your skin as a DIY facial treatment. It’s so luxurious. I love how it feels and my skin responds to it really well. Jade rollers improve blood circulation and skin tone, improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles and puffiness. Your jade roller can easily reduce dark under eye circles and eliminate toxins. Leave your jade roller in the freezer and use it nightly for ultimate benefits. The jade roller can also tighten pores since the jade remains cold even when in direct contact with the skin. To use the jade roller, you simply roll upwards and outwards on your face and neck. You literally “lift” and roll the wrinkles and impurities up and out of your skin. 
I preach the holy word of DIM and I always will. This one supplement CURED me of embarrassing cystic acne. Not helped, not improved, not kind of did something… CURED. My acne is gone and it’s been gone for years now – as long as I take DIM Plus! If you struggle with acne, especially acne that is hormonal, this supplement is your must-have and don’t think twice about it. Don’t just take it from me. My good friend Greta recently started trying it as well and reported on her blog that she saw improvements in her skin overnight! Reviews on Amazon are glowing, too. For $12, it’s a no-brainer. Give it a try for a month. I believe the bottle says to take 2 a day, but if you struggle with BAD acne, take 3 or even 4 a day. I take 4 a day (2 in the morning and 2 in the afternoon), which is when I really saw improvements. My pores shrank, my oil was controlled, my T zone was less shiny, my skin was smoother and miraculously, I woke up the first week acne FREE! Previously I had tried EVERYTHING, including Accutane. DIM truly WORKS.
The reviews on Genetix Organic Enhancement Oil are glowing, from women with an A cup saying they woke up to noticeably bigger boobs on day 2, to mom’s using it to help stretch marks after nursing, there’s a reason why every woman in the World absolutely HAS to try this awesome oil! Personally, it helped me to increase 2 cup sizes in just 90 days! Seriously! (There’s photographic evidence here.) I use this enhancement oil in conjunction with Pueraria Mirifica, an herb which the oil also contains. In fact, this oil has nine potent organic herbs and carrier oils that help to increase breast size, depth and fullness.
Also, it’s the ONLY option I’ve found that is totally natural and trust me – I’ve really done my research. Every other option contains scary toxins, parabens, PEG, alcohol or fillers like water or a gel substance (or all of the above!) No thank you! Stick with this affordable, organic option! I just love it! Seriously my best kept beauty secret. This oil also works on plumping and softening other areas, like lips, cheekbones and your neck to chest.
I owe my physique to this oil. Don’t forget to use code “STAYWEIRD” for a huge discount! I also have to mention that there’s worldwide shipping (wheeee!) Many of you asked so I thought I’d include this!
I actually can’t believe that it took soooooo long for organic tampons and pads to exist! Here are a few MAJOR reasons to make the switch (Like, today.)
- Every year, BILLIONS of plastic laden pads and liners are disposed of, often ending up in landfill sites and even the oceans of our world.
- Most of these pads are made from over 90% crude oil plastic which goes on to pollute global environments forever.
- Most tampons and pads are bleached with chlorine which leads to a toxic byproduct called dioxin, which is linked to cancer as it’s a known carcinogen and endometriosis.
- You often see “Elemental chlorine-free bleaching” on a label (also referred to as chlorine-free). This bleaching process is NOT free of chlorine at all but means that it is not a chlorine gas bleaching process! This does not exclude the use of other types of chlorine in the bleaching process. It is easy to be confused when manufacturers play with language in order to confuse you. Grrrrr!
- Recycled cotton any better? Nope. Again… tricky marketing at play. Recycled still cannot be chlorine or pesticide free because there’s no way to ensure that the cotton products recycled were clean.
- Pesticide-residue getting into your lady parts? 26% of the world’s pesticide is sprayed on cotton. These pesticides have been shown to affect the health of wildlife and humans in a devastating way from infertility, hormonal imbalance, even cancer. In third world countries, up to 70% of farm workers are children aged 5-15 and many involved in spraying these potentially cancer-causing chemicals onto the cotton that your tampons are made from. This is just so wrong because these children are being exposed at such a young age.
- If the cord of your tampon has been dyed, then it’s a possible source of toxic heavy metals, thanks to azo dyes.
(The list above was written by Candice Shrieker of Joyous Health)
My favorite brands are Natracare, Seventh Generation + Veeda.
by Tara Mackey | Beauty, Blogroll, Featured, Health
I was so excited to sit down with The Chalkboard Mag this month to talk about natural beauty and healing from the inside, out. I’ve been a huge fan of The Chalkboard Mag since I first began my wellness journey in 2011. They provide an incredibly curated hub for all things healthy for beauty, mind, body and spirit. I was super honored when they approached me about doing a Green Goddess Guide and happy to answer some questions about my own personal routine. You can read the full article here or check it out below. Chalkboard shares:
Simplicity is a glow’s best friend. Gorgeous wellness blogger, Tara Mackey, is sharing her secrets for natural beauty, reminding us that it’s not all about the potions and products…
IT’S EASY TO GET swept away by the clean beauty scene. With so many cool products to play with, we sometimes forget that simplicity is a glow’s best friend – and love being reminded by Green Goddesses like Tara Mackey. We love that this blogger, author (and soul singer’s!) approach to natural beauty is easy to embrace. More than that, we love that her path reminds us of why this all matters in the first place.
Diagnosed at a young age with medical conditions that required a slew of prescriptions, Tara made a hard left turn for the West Coast and a new lifestyle of non-toxic, intensely nourishing living. Her book, Cured By Nature, tells the inspiring story in full.
Tara’s does not disappoint – read on and be sure to grab her personal beauty elixir recipe below!
CAN’T TRAVEL WITHOUT…
My supplements. They solve everything from fatigue to a mood crisis and even balance out my tummy, my skin and my hormones throughout my travels. I could forget everything else in my bag as long as I had my supplements.
IN A PINCH I…
Grab some Waxelene and go! It solves dry skin, chapped lips and can even add a glow over or under makeup. It’s my totally organic Vaseline replacement!
ALWAYS IN MY EVENING CLUTCH:
Dr. Bach’s flower remedies. If I’m stressed out or tired, I’ll grab my flower remedy of choice and add just a few drops under the tongue for instant and natural relief.
BEAUTIFYING SNACK/MEAL:
A fresh fruit salad. I add almonds, tofu and greens for an extra boost and glow!
BEAUTIFYING DRINK:
My Beauty Juice recipe. I’ve been making it every day lately! Great for dark circles, redness, hair and nail growth; it fights acne scars and puffiness. It’s amazing – get the recipe below!
FOR ULTRA-GLAMOROUS EFFECT:
I’m really simple, but normally to “glam it up” I add a dab of RMS Beauty highlighter to the corner of my eyes. I know it sounds subtle, but it truly makes all the difference!
PERFECT POUT:
I’ve been loving Nudus Australia lately – their formulas are organic as well as very nourishing and long lasting.
BEAUTY TOOL:
Food is my favorite beauty tool. I’m loving my Body Boosting smoothie lately. It really kicks my glow up a notch!
WEIRDEST BEAUTY HABIT:
I’m crazy about oral hygiene so maybe my charcoal coconut oil pull, which I do nightly. I recently pulled this one out around my family and they were like, “What are you doing?!” because the charcoal turns your teeth black. It’s temporary though! Brush, rinse and your teeth will be as white as ever!
ON MY BEDSIDE TABLE…
Books, crystals and a journal.
ONCE A MONTH I…
Treat myself to a self-love date. Sometimes I get a blow out, other times a massage, some days I just take myself to a museum. It’s a must for me!
AFTER A LONG NIGHT OR ROUGH WEEKEND…
I drink a ton of water. Then I boil chamomile tea and use my chamomile tea bags as under-eye patches. Works wonders.
ON LITTLE SLEEP I RELY ON…
Music! This gets me motivated more than anything.
THE PRODUCT THAT CHANGED MY SKIN…
MOST TREASURED BEAUTY TIP…
Twenty minutes of cardiovascular exercise every day.
MY GO-TO DIY RECIPE OR SMOOTHIE RECIPE:
FRESH BREAUTY JUICE INGREDIENTS + RECIPE:
? 1 batch of organic carrots
? 1 handful of organic rose petals
? 1 tablespoon of Sun Potion Ashitaba for healthy blood + a sun kissed glow
? 1 tablespoon of Sun Potion Moringa for all the essential amino acids (building blocks of life) needed by the body
? 1 tablespoon of Moon Juice Beauty Dust to increase collagen
Add:
? 1 sprig of mint
? 1 sprig of sage
? 1 organic lemon
? 2 squirts of Sleeping Monk Goddess in Bloom elixir for beauty + rejuvenation
? Add ice + water, blend on high!
? Drink up and enjoy!
