THE WELLNESS MERCANTILE
CONTENTS 06
08 09
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MOTHER DIRT HOW DO YOU START YOUR DAY? I used to set my alarm super early in the mornings. I would wake up at 5am, get in a workout, breakfast, and be the first one at the office. However, over the last year, I’ve started thinking more about the value of sleep and the tone with which I start my day. I’ve stopped setting my alarm to let my body get the sleep it needs and to start the day off without rushing around. It’s made such a huge difference in my stress levels and alertness. WHAT"S YOUR MORNING & NIGHTLY BEAUTY ROUTINE? I keep these pretty simple. In the morning, I wash my face with the Mother Dirt cleanser, mist, and then moisturizer. I would use a stick concealer by hourglass for my under eye circles (they are always there!) and then my eye makeup and brush my hair. In the evening, it’s pretty much the same, sans concealer. I also like using Living Proofs nightcap on my hair a few times a week.
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- INTERVIEW -
HOW WAS MOTHER DIRT BORN? I’ve always loved putting together a story around a product, especially a story that’s grounded in science. I love teasing out the pieces that can connect with a broader audience and creating an experience around those. I met Jamie Heywood and David Whitlock, the co-founders of AOBiome in the summer of 2014. I was fascinated by the bacteria that they were working with and the implications on not only the cosmetics industry, but in the realm of public health as a whole. I knew that in order for the idea to reach large amounts of people, that the story needed to be told in a specific way. I eager for the challenge of building a brand around the bacteria and the idea of biome-friendly. We just hit the ground running. ADVICE TO WOMEN BEING HARD ON THEMSELVES WHEN LOOKING INTO THE MIRROR... Start being hyper aware of all the messages that are sent your way about what we ‘should’ look like. We know they exist, but I think often we are surprised at the extent to which they are present throughout our day. They ooze in at every opportunity, even the seemingly benign ones. This creates a powerful subconscious, unrealistic, and inaccurate push to what things should be like.
Every time you see these, think more logically about the motivation of the people/team behind the image or message and the purpose of it. It’s all part of a strategy typically built to make money. Magazine covers and cover girls are made to sell, beauty products are also made to sell. Sometimes when we start peeling back the curtain we can limit the effect these things have on us, and start having a friendlier relationship with ourselves, versus an antagonistic one.
"PERFECT IS OUT. BALANCE IS IN." ADVICE YOU'D GIVE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF Don't be in such a rush to get to the next stage of your life. HOW DO YOU PRACTICE BEAUTY FROM THE INSIDE OUT? Kindness to yourself and others. 5 THINGS YOU"RE LOVING RIGHT NOW 1. Archer Roose - amazing new wine company 2. May Lindstrom Clean Dirt 3. Fresh flowers 4. Homegoing (book by Yaa Gyasi) 5. Nice hot baths
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During your bleeding phase it’s time to dream more and sleep more. As you lose blood, you also lose minerals and it’s easy to feel depleted. Some women even become anemic. Carrying on as if nothing is happening will result in you pushing
Words by
yourself too far, which in turn can result in
LATHAM THOMAS
moodiness, low blood sugar, and symptomatic headaches, etc.
BEFORE, DURING & POST MENSTRUAL CYCLE During your bleeding phase, just say no, to When we bleed it is a sacred time, although it’s
everything. Even if you feel like you have the
often internalized as a curse. When a woman
energy, allow yourself the opportunity to rest. A
experiences PMS and a symptomatic cycle, it often
practice of setting boundaries, resting, dreaming,
means she is spreading herself too thin and not
eating well, phone fasting, and meditation will help
listening to her internal rhythms. Scheduling your
you to get the most out of your bleeding phase and
life, as often as possible, so that you’re not taxing
boost your glow power. Whenever possible, you
yourself when your cycle can’t handle it will keep
should steer clear of making any major
you from senselessly depleting your energy. When
commitments that will put you through a lot of
you feel tired, slow down. It’s not that anything is
pressure or unnecessary stress. For example, I will
wrong with you, but that you are not listening to
not take on any late appointments or commit to
yourself. The body speaks in very clear terms about
evening events that will keep me out late at night
what it needs and desires from you.
during my period I want to be finished with my work day by 2pm.
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I work from my desk at home the first two days of
Feed yourself blood-building, robust foods
my period and temper with much-needed rest
including green juice coconut, beets, beans,
during this time. I essentially mark a red line
squashes, and avocado and adequate protein
through the times I bleed and I request this of my
through smoothies and light snacks throughout the
clients as well. Reclaim that time to rest your body.
day. Sip on infused ginger tea to help ease any
And fortify with foods that support your hormonal
cramps.
health. After Period- Renewal Phase Before Period- Ovulation – Blooming Phase Recommended foods for this period include sweet
Eat heartier meals containing healthy fats like
potatoes, cacao, maca root powder, spices, coconut
avocado, walnuts, quinoa, black beans, and
oil, dates, and leafy greens.
almonds. One of my favorite recipes for Rosemary Almonds comes from Alicia Keys It’s one of my go-
Period- Releasing Phase
to glow foods to carry while in the renewal phase, made with peeled almonds, rosemary, olive oil, and
This first phase of the cycle, which lasts on average
sea salt. Have a smoothie containing low glycemic
from 5-7days, begins with the first day of our
berries, like blueberries, along with hempseed oil
menstrual flow and is an opportunity for us to
and Maca powder (an adaptogen that works on the
clear out and let go. During this phase of your cycle
reproductive system). Goji berry tea helps to
allow yourself to rest, refrain from doing any
restore the body after menses and offers an array
strenuous physical activity. Instead take a walk and
of amino acids. Simply place 2 tsp of dried goji
get fresh air.
berries into a cup of boiling water. Allow them to soak and release their power into the water, then drink.
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Even the triggering Heart Greens releases with ease and delight as I Ha — Ha — Ha through it! Laughter Yoga is fun! It’s silly! It’s working! The door is open and we’re laughing through our chakras in a pink room with white curtains.
Words by DIANA STAHL
Then we get to the Throat Blues. And I feel them. A lump, a pain, lodged awkwardly in my esophagus.
Sitting on a meditation pillow in a (sort of) lotus
Real un-cute, un-lovely, un-flowing, un-pink
I’m taking my first Laughter Yoga class. Yoga,
SORROW shoots from my pelvis to my throat and
sometimes means union. As in union with your
suddenly I’m weeping. My chin goes slack and
higher self. And laughter meaning Ha — Ha — Ha!!!
quivers like a Whitney Houston belt. I feel like a
The class is lead by a mature woman wearing an
baby. My pain grabbed me by the throat in the
amazingly long skirt, many bracelets with a
middle of this pink room yelling, “Don’t hide me!”
sensuous and infectious laughter. She is old school
as tears squirt through my tight eyes. It was dark
New Age. She’s seen more than one trend here in
and scary and I could almost smell the dragons.
the West. Sitting across from her feels like being in the meditation circles of my parents.
In the next exercise we had to say out loud what’s really stressing us out and giggle around it. And all
We sit across from each other and we giggle up the
this stuff about my Dad comes up through my
chakras. The Red Root, the Orange Sex, and the
Throat Chakra into words. Times I hadn’t stood up
Power Yellows come up easily as I chuckle their
towards him. Times I had hidden to protect him.
release.
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Stuff I’m not ready to say to his face but definitely
Some of these practices would not be taught to a
stuff I needed to say out loud. And it became clear,
person if they weren’t ready. Eager students would
the only way for me to release in this moment was
be turned down by the masters. You had to show
to say these things out loud to this amazing teacher
real, pure, devotion. You had to show humility. You
and let my Throat Chakra know, “Okay. That is sad.
had to be worthy of the teachings to receive them.
That is really hard stuff.” Both tears and laughter
Now its a little different. If you want to be Reiki
emerged and a great weight had been lifted. There I
attuned you can take a class. If you want to teach
was — lighter. This pain was hiding inside of my
yoga you can go on a retreat to get certified. If you
light. It was deep down there, where I couldn’t see
want to hop on a plane and get healed by a Balinese
it. And it needed out.
healer you can do that. And you can get points on your credit card all at the same time! And that is a
I think in the West, and certainly with my, “Diana,
beautiful, wonderful, powerful thing. And our
Goddess of the Hunt — shoot those arrows! Get it
ancestors are smiling upon the availability of it all.
done!” mindset we can fast forward through the harder stuff of this work to get to the light. We may
At the same time, we must have respect for these
feel a great release in the beginning of our practice
powerful teachings. Just like it says in Spiderman,
and believe that doing this work means only the
“With great power comes great responsibility.”
light. The airy—fairy. Wearing flowing dresses,
Some of these teachings take a long, long, long,
teaching yoga, speaking in a relaxed tone and
long, long, long time. I was raised by meditation
smiling all the time. And while all of that stuff is
teachers and spiritual counselors who brewed the
really rocking — it’s not really the whole picture, is
smelliest kombucha in our living room and I am
it? Most of these practices — even relatively new
constantly being smacked in the face with patience.
ones like Reiki — are hundreds, even thousands of
It doesn’t get easier. But it gets more and more
years old.
fulfilling.
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(Not that I’m an authority — I’m not. I just happen
Or maybe you need to say, “Enough!” and kick it
to be the writer of this article you’re reading. PS —
out of your house and throw it’s dress shirts on the
thanks for reading — back to the article.)
street. Maybe you need to hold a burning ceremony for it. Maybe you need to tell it, “I see you.”
This isn’t to say this work can’t be pink and fun and flowing and lovely! It is! Of course it is! It can also
I saw Wonder Woman this weekend and (spoiler
be bronze and turquoise and those deep deep reds.
alert) I was really moved when Diana, Princess of
It can be divinely masculine. It can be divinely
Themyscira, Daughter of Hippolyta, had to accept
feminine. It can be both! It can be a glittering
we humans are both good and evil. That the path of
amazing dance party! It also can be a walk through
love is partially knowing and accepting that gross
the redwood forest on a rainy day. When those
little pill — then choosing — to move with love.
dark moments come up make room for them. Build
Wow-za! Imagine the strength and discernment in
them a fainting couch! Cover it with feathers and
that! Go girl!
pillows or warm stones from the Mediterranean. Maybe your pain needs a waterbed to lie down on?
It reminded me of those moments in pink rooms
A Casper mattress? A dip in a hot tub in the middle
when I get grabbed by the throat and something
of the forest? A podcast? What ever it needs,
inside says, “Diana, daughter of Marty and Tracy
acknowledging these shadows may spring you
Stahl, there’s some serious sh*t you’ve been
forward in your spiritual journey! Ka-Pow! Or
ignoring! Time to embrace and release now!”
maybe this pain is holding you back and you need to thank it for it’s time with you and ask it to pack it’s f*ing bags. 11
Moonstone Moonstone is the crystal for Cancer season that taps into the divine feminine and the intuitive, creative energies of the moon. Many healers tout this as a grounding stone that balances the
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emotions. However, as a Cancer, this stone actually
KRISTEN SONNTAG
makes me feel super sensitive and “buzzy.” That said, as you connect with different stones I
Summer beckons us to step into a more expansive
encourage you to feel into their energies to see
state beyond our ego-based headspace. The bounty
which ones resonate for you. Another option for
of the farmer’s market means lighter, nutrient-
connecting to the moon is with a luminous,
rich, plant-based meals. The days are longer, so
supportive wand of Selenite.
we’re receiving the gifts of the sun; more outside time brings more opportunities for movement; and
Carnelian
long weekends mean time to connect with the
Carnelian carries the fire of Leo season and its
elements of air, earth, water, and fire. When our
ruling planet, the sun. This is the stone that ignites
bodies are in sync with the rhythms of the natural
passion, stimulates creativity, and gives you a boost
world, we can more easily step into to our intuitive
of sexy confidence. Carnelian connects with your
abilities. Connecting with crystals is an excellent
lower chakras to amplify your senses of security
way to go within, to explore your emotions, and to
and vitality. When you need to attend a social
heal those parts of your being in need of cosmic
gathering, you’re on a date, or anytime you’ll see
wisdom. Here are a variety of stones to help you
and be seen, Carnelian is the stone to carry or wear
express your radiant self during these sultry days
so that you feel fully present, energized, and self-
of exploration and adventure.
assured.
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Peridot
Its brilliant blue color makes it a lovely stone to be
Peridot or Chrysolite complements Virgo’s
worn as summer jewelry. This stone is your
buttoned-up sensibilities with motivating power.
protective guide to the spirit world, where your
It’s a wonderful ally when it comes to learning how
higher self is front and center, ready to guide you
to open up to receive the abundant gifts of the
into psychic journeys, and to unite your
universe. Peridot is like an antenna for success and
consciousness with the creative force.
good fortune, and cleanses your chakras of energetic blocks so that you’re free to align with
Stones for Eclipse Season
the unconditional generosity of universal source
On August 7th we’ll see a partial Full Moon Lunar
energy.
eclipse. The Full Moon is traditionally a potent time to see your intentions come to fruition, and to
Aquamarine
release what no longer serves you. Chrysocolla
Aquamarine is a cooling, oceanic cleanser that
helps you to shift away from over-thinking and
harnesses the feminine element of water.
into the expressions of your heart space. Its
Courageous and hopeful, this is a calming stone
peaceful, compassionate vibe aligns with your
that quiets the mind and clarifies your intuition.
intuition to ensure that your communications come
It’s an empowering self-healer that helps you to
from a place of calm. If you experience full moon
understand the meaning behind your emotions,
insomnia, its gentle nature may also help you relax
and to communicate with confidence.
at night.
Lapis
On August 21st, a large swath of the United States
Lazuli Lapis Lazuli is an expressive stone that lifts
from Oregon to South Carolina will see a total
you out of the earthly realm and into a divinely-
eclipse of the sun under the New Moon.
guided space of self-reflection.
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This infrequent and powerful celestial event asks
Have fun working with these transcendent
us to set our intentions for the month, and to
energies, and don’t forget to cleanse and charge
visualize our hopes and dreams into being. For
your crystals regularly. Bring your favorites to the
this, a Lemurian Seed Quartz is a beautiful friend
beach for a soak in the sun and sand, and at night
to help you reprogram your being. By spanning
leave them on the windowsill to drink in the
multiple dimensions, Lemurian Seed Quartz
moonlight. Crystals also love cool running water
removes energetic blocks and channels cosmic
and a smudge with white sage. (Just remember to
truth to tune up your consciousness. In the days
keep minerals like Selenite away from water, and
leading up to the eclipse, meditate with this crystal
note that colorful stones may fade in prolonged
and be ready to co-create with the universe.
exposure to the sun.)
Labradorite and Kyanite are also awesome stones
Nurture and honor your crystal companions, and
to work with at this magical time. Take some time
they in turn will nurture and honor you.
to play within your dreams, to access the third eye chakra, and ascend into your psychic abilities. If you’re sensitive to these kinds of events, you can’t go wrong with keeping a Smoky Quartz or Black Tourmaline in your pocket this month. They absorb chaotic and lower-vibrational energies and transmute them into a protective, earthy frequency that’s grounding and stable. 14
I was skeptical that it would work at first, but began looking for a reiki healer. I found a company called Caravan Wellness and was immediately attracted to the mission, branding and overall message of the site. They carefully match you with
Words by ALLIE KANDEL
the right instructor or healer (they also offer other modalities from your traditional personal training to other more "out there" offerings like sound
When I moved to New York City, I was so excited to
healing). I requested a session and was connected
be in the hustle and bustle of the city. I wasted no
with a reiki master within 24 hours. My healer
time filling my calendar with happy hours and late
came to my home and performed the session in my
dinners, and bounced from get together to meet up
apartment, which meant that I was much more
to party. And the busier my calendar was, the
comfortable than if I had gone to her studio.
worse my eating and sleep habits became. It didn’t take long for me to wake up feeling anxious and to
At the onset of my first session, I was nervous --
notice that no matter how much sleep I got, I
would I like the practitioner? Is it weird to have a
always felt like I needed a nap immediately. After
stranger touch me? What would reiki feel like? But
living like this for longer than I’d like to admit, I
within moments of the session beginning, all of my
knew I needed to find a solution.
worries dissipated. My healer started by asking me how I was doing. And for the first time since I
A friend mentioned a modality called reiki, which
moved to the city, I felt like someone was actually
felt like the right mixture of equal parts restorative
asking me. The correct answer here wasn’t an
and healing. While not a cure-all, it seemed like it
automatic “fine”, but I was actually supposed to
could work to erase the damage of the past few
answer - “I’ve been feeling anxious and I haven’t
years.
been sleeping well.”
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“Great, this is the perfect place to start” was her
Having someone who checks in with you regularly,
response. Feeling even less anxious now. As my
who is able to share the burden of carrying the
session continued, she used therapeutic grade,
emotional baggage, and is responsible for clearing
organic essential oils made by Ajai Alchemy,
the spirit of negative energy is so crucial to my
crystals, sound bowls, and the use of touch to clear
personal growth and journey. Just as one might
my energy, reset my body, and allow me to
enjoy catching up with an old friend, with whom
essentially have a fresh start. That night, I slept
you can pick back up exactly where you left off in
better than I had in years.
your conversation, I find myself doing the same with my reiki healer.
Reiki has become a part of my general practice now, and my healer and I continue to deepen our
If you find yourself looking for a way to reset your
relationship. Each week when she comes to visit, I
brain, or looking for a way to find a teacher or
find myself sharing more with her, exploring
healer with whom to work, start your search with
sources of trauma and pain that might be
Caravan Wellness -- their teachers and healers are
triggering anxious moments and causing sleepless
talented, trusted leaders in their practice and will
nights, and taking my experiences with reiki
work with you to deepen and strengthen your own.
deeper and further.
They also added the option to work remotely with them this Spring, which means you can continue to
While reiki is most definitely a huge cause in the
work with your teacher or healer, no matter where
shift of my brain chemistry, the relationship that I
you are.
have developed is the biggest benefit that I have gotten from reiki. While reiki is most definitely a
Editor’s Note: Caravan Wellness is offering an
huge cause in the shift of my brain chemistry, the
exclusive 15% discount for all Wellness Mercantile
relationship that I have developed is the biggest
readers on their first purchase with the code
benefit that I have gotten from reiki.
MERCANTILE15
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CAREY DAVIDSON Carey Davidson, Founder & CEO of Tournesol Wellness an integrative medical and healing arts center in NYC. In her private practice, Carey is an Intuitive Energy Healer and Reiki Master at Tournesol. She works with Vibroacoustic Sound Therapy to empower her clients to achieve optimal health.
’
Is it a physical place? Many of us no longer live in the cities or even countries of our birth. Transient lifestyles are more and more prevalent, so we are more adept at building the strength of home within our hearts, no matter where we are. My personal
Words by CAREY DAVIDSON
journey to heal my heart and find my internal home began back in 2010 when I left on a solo trip to France.
I’ll go ahead and give it to you so you don’t have to skip to the end of the article to find out the truth
The summer of 2010 found me boarding a plane
about those slippers. The big secret is that you’re
headed for Nice from JFK in New York City. With
wearing them. Every single day you’ve got them
an empty journal and an expectant spirit, I scanned
on. Did you look down and check? Wonder how I
the waiting area hoping I’d score an interesting
know? I know because I’m wearing them too and
seat-mate. All the while I repeated the French
because I have an uncanny ability to know you’ve
request for water in my head over and over to
all got them on as well.
make sure I’d ask for it correctly during the flight, “De l’eau, s’il vous plait. De l’eau, s’il vous plait.”
Do you remember the lessons you learned from The Wizard of Oz other than witches and water
My 17-year marriage had ended eight months prior
don’t mix and Kansas exists in sepia? We all
and I desperately wanted to be in a place where no
learned that there’s no place like home and that we
one knew my story. Since the news of my divorce
can return there with a simple and deliberate click
spread during the winter, I felt the weight of my
of our heels. But what and where is home these
neighbors’ stares, heavy with pity and cautious
days?
judgment.
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(Should we help her? Should we keep our
I climbed the bus steps toward a blast of perfectly
distance?) Or perhaps I was reading too much into
cool air and found my very own row of seats. I slid
the glances askance and it was my insecurity and
my journal out of my carry on and opened it to the
low self-esteem informing my suspicion. Either
next clean page. “I’m going to heal here. I’m going
way, I wanted to get out of town.
to repair my heart, to find my power, to love myself again. I’m so far away from anything that causes
What better way to run away from my troubles
me pain, I will definitely find the solace I’m
than to embark on a biking trip through the South
seeking.” We drove on toward Cannes where I
of France? Could I get farther away from my
hoped to find my strength of heart.
reality? After having read a New York Times Travel Section cover piece about biking through Provence,
I drank in every morsel of the scenery during the
I chose this adventure for my disappearing act.
short drive, testing my French reading skills at
And here I was, almost ready to take off, sitting on
each storefront. My charming little coastal town
the plane next to an already sleeping, not so
was a welcome respite and I nestled into the sweet
interesting looking middle aged American man
petite hotel, got to know the neighborhood and
bedecked with his neck pillow, noise canceling
spent four days exploring the coast. On the fifth
headphones, slippers and an eye cover. So much
day, I took the train to Chateaudouble, the tiny
for my fantasy of a flight spent enrapt by delicious
town where I’d begin my bike ride.
conversation. I woke the first morning of my ride in an antique The coach bus from the Nice airport to Cannes
bed at the palatial stone guest house where I had
hissed a tired exhale and the doors opened to
spent the night.
reveal a uniformed, aloof driver named Pierre.
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I took some selfies to capture my excitement and
I was totally, completely, utterly, painfully,
ate a Provencal breakfast of homemade jam, honey,
depressingly, audaciously and stinkingly entirely
croissants, coffee, yogurt, fresh fruit and juice.
alone. And lost. All pretenses vanished and I cried
After my meal I donned my bike helmet and shorts
like hell. It was only the first day of my adventure
and pushed off down a country road lined with
and I had failed miserably. The cries revealed
majestic trees and fields of flowers. A lonely stone
themselves to be more about how I failed at life
structure dotted the scenery here and there, but
than at reading cryptic maps and I felt completely
for the most part it was just me, the winding
hopeless.
country road and the 38 years of baggage I intended to unload.
What I really wanted was for someone to hear me in that moment and ooze with pity. I wanted a
The first leg of the first leg was almost entirely
gallant Frenchman to rescue me, but the Universe
uphill, testing my resolve. I remained steadfastly
resisted my cries and figured I’d somehow be
confident in my biking skills, my map reading
better off getting back on the proverbial bike.
abilities and my proficiency with the French
There was to be no savior. The Universe in all her
language. Yet, two hours into my maiden ride, the
brilliance had something better in mind, a lesson –
heady tenacity wore off with a thud. I had made a
the first of many on this epic trip.
mistake and traveled a few kilometers down hill in the wrong direction. My chest ached, my throat
Once the tears dried up, I took a breath,
clenched and the tears erupted.
remounted my bike and began to pedal back uphill. I moved through self-pity and allowed myself to
I was no longer an adventurous solo traveler.
see the endless rolling fields of magnificent green
Nope.
and the quiet, empty roads that led to even more quiet, empty roads.
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My breath returned and my heart calmed. I found
We can dress up, cover up and strengthen our
my center again.
exterior to diffuse the existence of inner distress and imbalance, but at some point in our lives the
Early that evening I turned my bike into the gite
ache will manifest and demand attention. I
where I would stay for the next two nights. With
couldn’t escape my aches by traveling to France.
an aperitif in hand, I found a cozy corner on the
They came along for the ride and I was offered the
patio, opened my journal and began to recount my
gift of being able to address them in an idyllic
day. I wrote about how getting lost and finding my
setting.
way home was a metaphor for what my every day life was going to be. Life is about getting lost
My lessons that summer were presented in neat
whether in thought, or direction, or intention.
packages of getting horribly lost and finding my
When we do the “heart” work, we always find our
way almost every day. I met angelic people with
way home.
big hearts and warm smiles who recognized my beauty, strength and courage, which I half accepted
Absorbing France in all her Provencal splendor
unenthusiastically at the time.
that summer rendered me highly sensitive to all the gifts I found in nature, in the food, in the
Most important, I remembered that I could always
people and the stories behind their eyes and in the
return home no matter where in the world I was
creases of their hands. I relished in the lightness
and no matter what challenge faced me. Because
of being away and melted into the scenery. Yet at
home is in my heart and when I opened my heart to
the same time, this very same scenery reflected
self-love, I always made better decisions that led to
back at me all the reality I had come so far to
better outcomes and brighter, more balanced days.
escape. I was forced to face my old patterns and
So, click those heels and shine bright in those ruby
fears 4,000 miles away from their origins.
slippers! You’re already – and always – home.
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Similarly, I believed that the beauty products I was slathering on my skin and the feminine care products that I was using to keep me from bleeding through my denim blue jeans were working for me, not against me. Little did I know that these hidden
Words + Recipe by ALLISON WALTON
toxic chemicals were making way for the perfect storm, sabotaging my hormones and accumulating dis-ease in my body.
Menstrual, hormonal and reproductive health have traditionally been reserved for taboo conversation,
As women, we have been misguided and
but they deserve the spotlight, especially in today's
misinformed about our bodies, our hormones and
highly endocrine disruptive society. Chemicals in
our health. That’s of course my opinion, but
our food, skincare products and the environment
collectively, I believe it to be true. Too many of us
have contributed to toxic overload and caused
have been suffering silently through pain, masking
many women to become estrogen dominant,
our raw emotions and vulnerability in an effort to
leading to a steady rise of women's health issues
accept these circumstances as normal rather than
including endometriosis, PCOS, infertility and
seeking out answers and support. The monthly
other hormone and reproductive-related
symptoms that we experience are not normal, but
disorders.
rather signs of an imbalance that requires our attention. Luckily, we’re beginning to see a
Personally, I’ve always thought that being
favorable shift towards holistic practices and
“hormonal” was normal and that the vicious
modalities that support a healthy menstrual cycle
monthly cycle of debilitating pain and emotional
in addition to greater access to information
instability were ultimately a necessary part of
surrounding natural treatments for hormone
being a woman.
dysfunction.
24
We are resilient human beings and deserve our
CREATE | Give yourself space to freely play. Weave
own health and happiness, living free from pain
creativity in all that you do, making intentional
and making our own conscious decisions as
things with your own two hands, and from the
opposed to someone prescribing us quick fixes that
heart. Arrange flowers, DIY your skincare rituals,
mask the more deeply rooted issues.
journal, make a matcha rosewater tonic and sip it slowly.
As a women’s health specialist who has struggled with symptoms of endometriosis, my intention and
NOURISH | Eat what makes you feel good, in that
purpose is to help women all over learn how to
moment. And by that, I don’t mean the junky,
better take care of themselves. That process begins
refined foods that are temporary fixes to cravings,
with an innate desire to develop a more conscious
but from-the-earth, real foods that are meant to
and intuitive approach towards living and feeling
help our bodies function optimally.
well. My personal offerings for support should feel simple and come naturally. These are some of the
REST | This is fundamentally necessary. In a world
healing modalities that have played an
that asks so much of your time and energy, solitude
instrumental role in my general wellbeing.
and space after moments or days of overstimulation is well deserved and plays a crucial
CONNECT | Surround yourself with equally
role in any healing journey. Set time aside for
inspiring and empowering women. There is
personal days and use them as luxuries to indulge
absolutely nothing that shakes my soul and
deeply in self-care and straight up horizontal rest.
inspires me more than connecting with other individuals who are curious, conscious and
Take care of your precious vessel and it will surely
motivated about creating positive experiences for
do the same for you. This, we know, but must
the community at large, and then indulging in them
always diligently do.
together.
25
This hydrating summertime tonic blends the earthiness of fine matcha with the therapeutic benefits of pure rosewater and hormone-loving adaptogens for a potently rejuvenating and healing experience. 1 cup nut or seed milk (such as almond, cashew, hemp or pumpkin) 2 tablespoons tocotrienols 1-2 teaspoons local raw honey 1 teaspoon ceremonial-grade matcha powder 1 oz pure rosewater ½ teaspoon ashwagandha powder ½ teaspoon maca root powder ½ teaspoon pearl powder Additions for garnishing and serving: bee pollen, crushed rose petals, dried calendula, cacao nibs Traditionally, matcha is created with a bamboo whisk, however for convenience and ease, you may combine nut or seed milk, matcha, rosewater, honey and herbs into a high-speed blender and blend on high. Pour into your favorite mug or ceramic and garnish with optional additions mentioned above. Best served warm or at room temperature in the morning, and chilled for a refreshing blend in the afternoon. 26
- FEATURE -
mind, and subtly lift the mood. But before we get into all that, let’s take a look at what CBD actually is... What is CBD and where does it come from? Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last few years, you would have noticed there has been a lot
Words by AMY YAMAMURA & JACK WOODHOUSE
of attention on cannabis in local and national press. It’s been a very hot topic of late, and with good reason. While some cling to the claim that it’s a
Doing things to increase your health and happiness
harmful drug that can lead to addiction and
every day is vitally important - and never more so
personal problems, others insist it helps them to
in today’s rushed world, with its constant influx of
live a healthy and vibrant life. It’s easy to get
notifications and messages, beeps and buzzes, all
confused in the midst of this to and fro, so let’s
vying for your precious time. Making small changes
clear up the matter.
in your daily wellness routine can have dramatic effect on your overall health and wellbeing. One of
As with most things in this world of ours, the case
the most profound changes you can make - which
for cannabis is not so black and white. When some
has only come to light in recent years - is the
people hear the word cannabis (or marijuana, pot,
addition of cannabidiol (CBD) into your wellness
weed, etc.), their mind immediately associates it
routine.
with getting high. However, many are discovering that there is so much more to this healing plant as
There is a growing body of scientific research that
science puts cannabis under the microscope and
shows CBD has the power to reduce anxiety and
explains how it actually interacts with the human
stress, lower inflammation, relax the body and
body.
28
We have discovered that there are two main
There is also zero evidence for CBD being
chemical components of cannabis -
addictive. This is because CBD does not act on any
tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol
receptors in the brain that would produce
(CBD). These are known as cannabinoids, and it’s
addiction.
these cannabinoids that interact with our bodies via the endocannabinoid system (which we’ll talk
How CBD works and its fascinating relationship
more about later).
with your ECS We mentioned earlier, so now let’s delve into the remarkable research on the
Although it has numerous health benefits of its
endocannabinoid system (ECS) and how CBD
own, THC is the compound responsible for the
interacts with it. The ECS consists of a number of
‘high’ commonly associated with cannabis. CBD, on
receptors throughout the brain and body that are
the other hand, is non-psychoactive and even
directly involved in a variety of physiological
works to counteract psychosis, while still offering a
processes, including appetite regulation, sleep,
huge range of therapeutic uses.
pain-sensation, hormone levels, immune response, digestion, mood, memory, and more. Rather
Put simply, CBD offers a plethora of medical
amazingly, cannabinoids such as CBD and THC
benefits of the cannabis plant but without the side
perfectly mimic the structure of chemicals that the
effect of the high you get from THC. CBD is a
body itself produces (endogenous cannabinoids).
game-changer!
This allows CBD and THC to bind to receptors in our brains and bodies just as endogenous
Is CBD safe or addictive? CBD is extremely safe
cannabinoids do, thus resulting in the various
(even in high doses). Much like water, dark
physiological effects we see.
chocolate and steamed kale, CBD has an unusually low level of toxicity.
29
The discovery of ECS was made just very recently
simultaneously. Here is an overview of just some of
in 1992, so we are only beginning to see the
the most studied uses and benefits of CBD:
importance of its role in our bodies. What science is discovering is that the ECS’ primary aim is to
1. Pain management One of the most common uses
keep the body in perfect balance (or homoeostasis).
for CBD is as an analgesic (pain reliever). And while
In doing this, one of the major functions of the
many sufferers of acute pain swear by the
ECS is to respond to stress. This is a big part of
effectiveness of CBD, it can also be extremely
why CBD is so effective at reducing stress and
useful when used topically in less serious
anxiety - through specific pathways, CBD
aggravations such as sprains, bumps and bruises.
stimulates the ECS, resulting in significantly
Many women also rely on CBD to control PMS, like
decreased cortisol (the stress hormone) levels.
England’s Queen Victoria did in the 1800s.
There are still many questions that remain
2. Reducing inflammation Inflammation is a huge
unanswered with regards to the ECS. But with the
problem in modern society, undoubtedly playing a
relaxation of cannabis laws and many research into
role in all manner of ailements. That’s why CBD’s
the subject, more pieces of the puzzle are
unequalled effectiveness at treating many
unearthed everyday for a greater understanding of
inflammatory conditions - from joint pain to
why CBD is so beneficial will become clearer.
irritable bowel syndrome to arthritis - is very exciting. CBD is proving to be more powerful than
The numerous benefits of CBD The studies on
many of the most common natural remedies used
CBD’s effectiveness are stacking up. Because the
for inflammation, like curcumin, fish oil,
ECS plays such a big role in so many bodily
resveratrol, and Vitamin C.
processes, CBD has the ability to assist in the treatment of many ailments and conditions,
30
4. Relieving stress and anxiety CBD is proving time
good night’s sleep. You can expect some serious
and again to be one of the safest and most powerful
positive effects on your mind and body by
ways to relieve negative thought patterns and
incorporating CBD along with a healthy diet and
worry. Whether it’s in a capsule form, a drop of oil
plenty of exercise.
under the tongue, or vaping on your vape pen, getting CDB into your bloodstream dramatically
Different ways to take CBD
reduces cortisol levels and helps you deal with
There are many ways to administer CBD depending
life’s annoyances with grace and calm.
on your particular situation and needs. High concentration tinctures are fast acting and best for
5. Losing weight While THC is commonly known to
more serious ailments while CBD capsules are a
significantly increase your appetite, CBD can, in
great way to bring CBD into your wellness routine
fact, suppress it - ideal if you're cutting fat,
as a supplement to your diet. Vaping is great for on
reducing weight, or just watching your figure.
the go relief for symptoms like IBS and menstral
Additionally, CBD boosts your metabolism, reduces
cramps, and if you suffer from neck and shoulder
levels of liver fat and blood cholesterol, makes you
pain, then applying some CBD salve to the affected
more sensitive to insulin and protects the cells that
area would be an efficient way of treating the
produce insulin.
condition. There are many different types of CBD products on the market you can choose from.
6. Improving sleep CBD offers an extremely beneficial way to help you get your full forty winks.
How Long Does CBD Take to Work?
Despite actually activating the same receptors as
CBD is generally quite fast acting and usually takes
caffeine, which is technically a stimulant, users
only a few minutes to a couple of hours to get to
report that using CBD a few hours before bedtime
work. This does, however, depend on the method
has a balancing, calming effect that facilitates a
of application, the dose, and numerous other
31
factors that can affect the how CBD is absorbed by
After all, everyone’s body in unique, so make sure
your body.
to you listen to yours!
One of the quickest ways to administer CBD is via
How much CBD do you need?
inhalation, and the safest method for this is using a
How much CBD you should consume depends on a
vaporizer. Taking your CBD sublingually is the
number of things, including the condition you are
second fastest method of absorption, granting you
treating and the method of consumption you
relief within minutes. Topicals such as balms and
choose.
salves are one of the slowest ways to get CBD into your bloodstream, and these methods allow for a
Please bear in mind that each body reacts
continuous absorption over time, resulting in
differently to CBD. Some people are very sensitive
longer effect of CBD(overnight, for example).
and need only a small amount, while some (although not many) don’t feel any effects even with
Eating CBD can also result in a delayed effect -
large doses. Self-experimentation is the only true
anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, depending
way to find your personal sweet spot. That said,
on how much you consume and when your last
there are some basic guidelines when it comes to
meal was - as the body needs to digest the food
determining how much CBD you should take. Here,
before the CBD can be released and absorbed. If
doses are best measured as pure mg of CBD,
you plan on eating CBD, it is often advised to do so
because each product has a different
on an empty stomach for the fastest effect.
concentration.
Again, varying your dosage and method of
It is best to start low, slowly increasing the dose
consumption is the best way to find what works
over a few days until you notice the effects or your
best for you.
symptoms start to reduce.
32
When your symptoms are gone, there is no need to
As research continues and anecdotal evidence is
increase your dose further. Remember, if you have
corroborated, a clearer understanding of this
a serious health issue, please consult your doctor
remarkable molecule and its effects is sure to
for their recommendations.
prevail. In the meantime, make CBD a part of your daily wellness routine and benefit from its vast
How can you find high-quality CBD?
array of health-enhancing benefits for both the
It is best to stick to reputable CBD sellers with a
mind and body.
good reputation. Also, keep an eye out for thirdparty lab tests to ensure what you are buying is what it claims to be. CBD is expensive to produce professionally, so steer clear of any suspiciously cheap offers and products - if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. CBD is the future of Wellness. CBD and the health-conscious are a match made in heaven. An effective, safe and legal alternative to expensive supplements and often toxic prescription drugs, CBD is a health supplement like no other, treating your mind and body in a holistic way.
33
FRESH LESSONS
THE SUMMER BREAKFAST
RECIPES BY ALISON MARRAS @FOODBYMARS
Balsamic Fig & Goat Cheese Tart Gluten & Grain Free Ingredients 2 cups blanched almond flour 2 tbsp. coconut oil (melted) 1 egg 8-10 fresh figs 3-4 oz. goat cheese Fresh thyme sprigs 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 1 Tbsp raw honey Directions 1. Pre-heat oven to 350f degrees and prep the crust by combining the almond flour, coconut oil and egg in a food processor. 2. Press crust into a tart or pie dish and set aside. 3. Rinse and slice figs into rounds, discarding the ends, slice thinly and set aside. Open the goat cheese and scatter dollops around the tart crust. Try 3 oz. first and then overlay the fig slices to cover the crust and cheese. You can press down so it's even. If you'd like to add a bit more cheese to fill in any holes, use what's left. 4. Next, add some sprigs of fresh thyme by threading in between fig slices. I used approx. 6-8 sprigs. 5. Pop the tart into the oven for approx. 30-35 minutes. The figs should be juicy and aromatic, the crust should be golden on the edges. 6. In the meantime, prep the balsamic vinegar and honey by lightly heating on the stove top for 5-8 minutes until lightly simmering. Turn heat off and let sit so it gets thicker. 7. Take the tart out of the oven and drizzle balsamic vinegar over top to cover, sprinkle some more thyme for garnish and optionally pop the tart in the oven for 5 more minutes. Serve warm or room temperature!
Eggplant Benedict with Easy Hollandaise Gluten & Grain Free, Paleo, Low Carb If you've been following recent Instagram food trends lately, you may have seen people putting sweet potato slices in a TOASTER. Yes, a toaster. And why that might sound crazy, I thought if it could work for potatoes, it must work for eggplant, RIGHT? Well I put that to the test and low and behold it does work. This time of year eggplants are in abundance and I'm savoring them in all meals, even breakfast by making it the muffin to my Eggs Benedict. And when it it only takes a few minutes of playing with your toaster, it's a no-brainer. It's arguably less messy than using real toast, just saying. You'll only need as many slices as you're making eggs for the dish, so I simply roast the rest for meal prep on hand or for later that day - YUM.
Oh and this easy-peasy hollandaise sauce is my new favorite! I always find the fact it was made with egg yolk and then poured on eggs to be a little redundant. I also hate having an odd number of eggs in my fridge (call me OCD - but seriously... why.) - so I tried leaving it out, and let me tell you - it's still delicious and saucy and all that good stuff. Turmeric makes it extra yellow and the citrus from the lemon juice and tanginess from the dijon mustard is perfect! Great for pouring over veggies while you're at it. This dish is so easy, it'll be your favorite late summer brunch-at-home dish!
Ingredients
Directions
serves 2 1. First, get everything assembled as you'll 4 eggs
want to move quickly and have room for
4 handfuls of fresh arugula, spinach or
poaching the eggs.
mixed greens
2. Toast the eggplant slices on medium,
4 slices medium sized eggplant, sliced into
keep checking until the center is soft, you
1/4 in. thick rounds (or whatever will
may need to toast 2, 3 or 4 times
comfortably fit in your toaster)
depending on your toaster.
salt, pepper
3. Next, add those to your plates and top
fresh herbs such as chives for garnish
with greens, set aside.
Hollandaise Sauce:
4. Make the sauce by whisking all ingredients in a small dish and set aside.
1 tsp dijon mustard
5. Now, poach your eggs! I love this guide
2 tsp ghee, melted
for step by step photos and tips.
1 tsp lemon juice
6. Add eggs over the greens and drizzle
1/4 tsp turmeric powder
hollandaise sauce over top, sprinkle with
splash of almond milk (until you reach
salt, pepper and any herbs you'd like to
desired consistency of a sauce)
garnish with.
balance, and that has an immediate effect on my capacity to think clearly and feel at ease. I’ve spent a great deal of my life traveling and moving from home to home starting at a very young age. It was only once I took the time to really
Words by
consider and take into account how my
CHELSEY ESTRIDGE
surroundings made me feel spiritually, mentally, and emotionally, that I realized all I was looking for
They’re taking social media by storm, popping up
was a space where I felt comfortable and secure. In
in all of the coolest boutiques and venues, and even
my early twenties I kept bouncing from place to
showing face in the prints and patterns of the
place looking for the one spot that would make me
trendiest clothing this season. What are they you
feel calm and at home. Living a somewhat nomadic
ask? Plants! Large or small, these potted wonders
existence was just a “band-aid” solution to what I
bring invaluable effects wherever they are planted,
was looking for. To be clear, what I wanted was a
including the space which we inhabit….our homes.
home base. A place to call my own and fully express myself. What I had so often sought out in my
You might wonder why it is important to create a
attempt to find the perfect hotel room, AirBnB, or
healing environment at home? A philosophy that I
short-term rental was what I needed to cultivate
like to apply to my own life is: outer order
for myself in a permanent setting. Today, I can say
contributes to inner calm. The space I inhabit is a
that there is no place in the world that makes me
direct reflection of my emotional and mental
feel as good as home does. I guess Dorothy was
wellbeing at the present moment. Even though my
right, “there’s no place like home.”
home tends to look the same to friends and visitors I can instantly sense when things are out of
Once I discovered the power of my surroundings
38
and what it meant to be comfortable and happy in
They add an element of color and life to any room
my own space, I wanted to share that with other
you choose to put them in. Beyond simply being
people. The home environment is so often
aesthetically pleasing, they provide numerous
neglected when we embark on a journey to become
scientifically proven health benefits. Here are some
a healthier and more well rounded version of
of the more immediate effects of adding plant life
ourselves. Enter Holistic Aesthetics and the idea
to your home or workspace.
that where you spend a majority of your time is the foundation which will affect all other aspects of
1. Reduces stress
your life. Few things impact your life as much as
Research has shown that your body subconsciously
stress. When you don’t have a place where you can
reacts to plants, even if you’re not consciously
feel relaxed and at ease, there is no diet or exercise
aware of their presence. Just being in the same
regimen that will overcome the negative effects of
room as greenery has a calming effect on your
your surroundings. However, the power of a
psyche. A study at Texas A&M University states
positive environment will inevitably trickle down
that “people who spend time outside every day are
into all areas of your life.
less likely to be depressed or stressed, and thus have fewer burdens on their mental health.”
There are many different avenues to explore when you take on the task of making your home a
Since urban dwellers spend up to 90% of their time
comfortable and inviting place to be. I’ve found
indoors, there’s no reason why they shouldn't bring
that in my own personal life the addition of plants
the benefits of plant life inside.
has had the greatest impact on my sense of wellbeing, stress levels, capacity to feel balanced
2. Increase Productivity
and organized, and overall happiness. Plants, at
Virginia Lohr of Washington State University,
least in my experience have the power to make any
found that people working indoors with a
space feel more peaceful and serene.
houseplant in their direct line of sight were able to
39
complete tasks 12% faster and concentrate better
increases memory retention by up to 20%.
than those in the absence of plants. Numerous other studies have produced similar results,
5. Boosts Mood
proving that plants go far beyond simple aesthetic
At the risk of stating the obvious, in order to have a
benefits.
plant you must have dirt. A fun fact about dirt is that, Mycobacterium vaccae, a specific type
3. Reduces pollutants and VOCs (Volatile Organic
of bacteria found in soil increases the production
Compounds) Indoors
of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin(in case you
Research presented in the 1989 NASA Clean Air
don’t know) makes you happy. Therefore, it’s an
Study recommends having one large houseplant
undeniable truth that plants make you happier!
per every 100-square feet of indoor space in order to filter out chemicals such as formaldehyde and
Facts and figures aside, filling any room with living,
carbon monoxide. In addition to acting as an air
breathing, plant life is bound to create an
filter, plants also produce pure, oxygen rich air
intoxicating sense of happiness and serenity. It can
around them. However, not all plants are created
certainly be a daunting task to choose from one of
equally when it comes to reducing VOCS, so if
the hundreds of plant species suitable for life in a
you’re going to pick only one go with either
pot, but you can take solace in knowing that it’s
Chrysanthemum (Pot Mum) or a Gerbera Daisy.
natural to feel overwhelmed when deciding how and where to bring green life into your life. I
4.Enhances concentration and memory
recommend starting with a Pot Mum or Gerbera
According to a study by the University of Michigan
Daisy first and then gradually adding whatever
studying and working in the presence of
calls your name as you wander the rows of your
plants is linked to increased concentration,
local Farmers Market or Nursery.
memory, and productivity. The study goes on to
Chelsey Estridge is the Founder and Owner of
show that being “under the influence of plants”
Holistic Aesthetics NYC
40
equally big believer in daily sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats. You can always take a Vitamin D supplement if you want to be absolutely sure you’re getting enough of it.
Words by DARA KENNEDY, FOUNDER OF AYLA
How do you select a safer sunscreen?
How do you have a healthy relationship with the
provide broad-spectrum protection from both UVA
sun?
and UVB rays. I always suggest picking a product
That’s a great question! I love being outside in the
that uses a physical sunscreen — either zinc oxide
sun, and I hear a lot of people wondering if they get
or titanium dioxide, or both. They provide
enough Vitamin D.
excellent broad-spectrum protection (though
To start with, any sunscreen you use should
between the two, zinc provides slightly better UVA But here’s a key fact: you only need about 10
protection), and unlike chemical sunscreens, they
minutes of unprotected sun exposure to get your
work right away once you apply them to your skin.
daily dose of Vitamin D, and you probably get that without trying (especially when the weather’s
It’s also easier to pick a physical sunscreen that’s
warmer and your arms and legs are exposed).
good for you, since you don’t need to remember the specific names of the chemical sunscreens you
Another key fact: skin cancer rates have doubled in
should avoid! In case you’re curious: oxybenzone
the past 30 years and continue to rise.
and octinoxate can cause allergic reactions and have been linked to hormone-like activity in the
So while I’m a big believer in an active lifestyle that
body, and they’ve been shown to cause serious
includes a lot of time outdoors in the sun, I’m an
damage to coral reefs worldwide.
42
But make sure your sunscreen is not formulated
Should you use a different sunscreen for the face
with nano-sized zinc and titanium dioxide. I advise
than you do for the body?
our customers generally to avoid nanoparticles in
You don’t have to, but a lot of us do. We’re just
their beauty products, especially if there’s any
pickier about sunscreen we put on our faces: since
chance of inhalation (as in sprays and powders),
it’s something that’s applied every day (or should
because their long-term effects on the body are not
be!), there’s a greater expectation that it should be
well understood. If that’s not reason enough for
weightless and non-greasy and rub in clear. And
you to avoid them, nano-sized zinc and titanium
most of us will spend more on sunscreen we use on
dioxide from sunscreens have also been shown to
our faces because you don’t have to cover as much
accumulate in coral reef systems and cause damage
surface area. If you use the wonderful Luzern La
to a form of algae that’s critical food for marine
Defense sunscreen on your whole body, that little
life.
tube won’t last very long!
One more thing to look for in a sunscreen is a good
But if you’re surfing or swimming and you only
antioxidant. Antioxidants have been shown to
want to carry one sunscreen with you, you can find
support sunscreen by helping to further prevent
formulas that work well for both face and body.
UV-induced photoaging, so I always look for some
Banx Block Fragrance Free SPF 40 is one that I
of those in a formula as well. Good ones that are
always recommend for situations like that. (It’s a
often in sunscreen formulas are Vitamins C and E,
top pick of pro surfers and lifeguards, so you know
CoEnzyme Q10, green tea extract, cranberry
it provides serious protection, too!)
extract, and pomegranate extract. 43