Friday, December 31, 2010

Make Your Resolutions Green This Year!

Well, it's that time again - time to mull over the year's triumphs and challenges, and put an old year to rest, while setting goals for an even better year ahead! This year, why not make a resolution to live in a way that is more conscious and respectful of the world and people around you?

Here is a great article to get you started, with some simple and easy tips to making a positive difference in the year ahead.

And we'd love to hear your "green" resolutions as well! Please feel free to comment and share ideas below!

How to Make Your New Year's Resolution Green and Friendly
"We wanted to motivate people to make a green resolution that will directly impact the environment because most people will make a change if it's easy, affects something beyond themselves, and feels good," says Modena. The green living ...
Publish Date: 12/29/2010 8:57
http://newsblaze.com/story/20101229055758lemc.nb/topstory.html
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Monday, December 27, 2010

What To Do With Your Christmas Tree After Christmas?

Christmas treeImage via WikipediaFor the green family, it can seem terribly wasteful to throw that great tree in the landfill. Some areas have Christmas tree recycling programs, and others don't.

Here are some ideas for what to do with that used (real) Christmas tree, after the holiday has come and gone (please note that for artificial trees, you should wrap the tree and place for safekeeping for next year - artificial trees are not usually recyclable, and you sure don't want those in a landfill - what a waste!):

Christmas Tree Recycling and Disposal
Christmas Tree Recycling The holidays are over, the presents are unwrapped and you have figured out how to recycle Christmas wrapping paper, but what about the tree....
Publish Date: 12/13/2010 5:00
http://www.diyreviews.net/2010/christmas-tree-recycling-and-disposal/
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Friday, December 24, 2010

Video - Eco-Friendly Holiday Tips

The holidays can be a very wasteful season, what with all the gifts, packaging, wrapping paper, etc. Here are some tips for making your holiday season more eco-friendly and easier on the environment and your pocket book as well! 

Merry Christmas from New Holistic Living!

Your WildLifeStyle Tip: Eco-Friendly Holidays
Did you know that between Thanksgiving and New Year's, American households increase their waste output by over 25% with cards, wrapping paper and ribbons? Check out these tips direct from the North Pole on how to make your holidays more environmental...

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Thursday, December 23, 2010

Eco-Friendly Alternative Gift Wrapping Ideas

Gift yellow-green wrappingImage via WikipediaOnly two more days to finish the rest of the last-minute gift wrapping! But the sheer amounts of wrapping paper, bags, tissue, and bows involved may give the eco-friendly family pause.... One of the most wasteful parts of the holidays is packaging and gift-wrap. Tons of paper are thrown away this time of year (literally), and although some (though not all) gift wrap can be recycled, much is not. Here is a great article (complete with some helpful pictures) on alternatives to purchasing and using traditional gift wrap.

These ideas can save you both time and money, while still being attractive, unique, and eco-friendly.

A Gift Wrapping Guide for the Rest of Us
A Gift Wrapping Guide for the Rest of Us. Posted on December 9, 2010 by Courtney. Please welcome today's guest poster, Jody. When planning a visit to my hometown several years ago, I was invited to an old friend's baby shower that ...
Publish Date: 12/09/2010 3:00
http://thegreenists.com/holidays/a-gift-wrapping-guide-for-the-rest-of-us/7038

Have a greener holiday season this year, and remember, the best gift of all is....you! (Cheesy I know, but true nonetheless.) :-)




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Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Organic Food Gift Baskets: Great Holiday Gift

Are you looking for a nice, unique gift to give a close friend or relative?  Although you do have a number of different options, you may want to take the time to examine organic food gift baskets.  After a close examination, you will see that there are a number of reasons why organic food gift baskets make for the perfect gift.

Gift fruit basketImage via WikipediaOne reason why organic food gift baskets make great gifts is because they are not just for organic eaters.  With that being said, organic eaters are more likely to appreciate an organic themed gift basket.  However, you may do someone that you know a favor by getting them interested in eating organic foods.  Many individual are surprised with the taste, namely how good it is.  Typically, organic foods taste similar, if not better, than other foods with artificial additives.

The fact that organic food gift baskets are perfect for just about any occasion is another one of the many reasons why they can be the perfect gift.  Popular occasions in which organic themed gift baskets are given include Christmas, Mother’s Day, and Easter.  Keep in mind, however, that they are also perfect for just about any occasion, including birthdays, weddings, and anniversaries.  In fact, you can give an organic food gift basket as a housewarming gift or even just because.

Another reason why organic gift baskets should be examined is because it can be relatively easy to find and buy them.  This is largely due in part to the number of options that most shoppers have.  For example, there are online stores that specialize in the selling of gift baskets and many have a small collection of organic food themed baskets.  Online organic food stores, as well locally operated organic food stores may also have a selection of themed gift baskets for sale.  Despite the fact that organic food gift baskets are ideal for just about any occasion, they are usually easier to find for sale around Christmas, Easter, and Mother’s Day.

The options that you have, in terms of which organic foods are included in a gift basket, is another reason why you should examine them to give as gifts.  Most individuals automatically think of organic fruits and vegetables, but organic food is so much more than that.  An organic food gift basket can include mixes, desserts, candies, breads, cheeses, crackers, and so much more.  In fact, there are some stores that allow you to design your own gift baskets.  This is a great way to ensure that your gift recipient receives a gift basket filled with organic foods that they will eat.

As nice as organic gift baskets are, some shoppers are turned off by their costs.  If that describes you, it is important to know that you do have an alternative.  That alternative involves making your own gift baskets.  Making your own organic gift basket is also a great idea if you are unable to find a pre-made basket that you like.  Simply find a container, which should also be organic, and place selection of natural foods inside and you now have a homemade organic food gift basket.

Of course, the decision as to whether or not you want to give the gift of an organic gift basket is your decision to make, but you may still want to see what is available.  Chances are, you will be able to find the perfect match for your close friend or family member.

Organic Gift Basket Ideas:
   
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Monday, December 20, 2010

Eco-Friendly DIY Holiday Gift Idea

Traditional Aleppo SoapsImage via WikipediaNothing says "personal touch" like a hand-made gift, and here is one that is both easy, fun, and eco-friendly. If you've never tried making your own soaps, it may seem intimidating, but this simple recipe and instructions will get you started, and before you know it, you'll have yummy organic homemade soaps to give all your loved ones that truly personal touch this holiday season!

DIY Holiday Gift Idea #2: Handmade Soaps, Eco & Easy | Delicious ...
For homemade gift ideas, check out this all natural, organic recipe for soap making that's both easy and eco.
Publish Date: 12/07/2010 21:48
http://www.organicauthority.com/delicious-beauty/diy-holiday-gift-idea-2-handmade-soap-making-made-easy-a-eco.html


And don't worry - if you try making your own soaps and don't care for it, or  it just seems like too much trouble, there are lots of good options out there. Try Zum Bars - these all-natural bars come in tons of yummy scents, and they are made of pure food-grade oils and goats milk, which is very gentle and moisturizing for your skin. These also make a great gift (I got them for almost everyone this year!).



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Friday, December 17, 2010

Detox and Your Skin

The best way to have healthy, glowing skin is to start from the inside out. Eliminating caffeine in the form of coffee and soda is one way to start. Caffeine dehydrates the body and skin. And lack of moisture is a sure way to create lines and wrinkles. It’s also a diuretic, causing increased urine output, again depleting your body and skin of the moisture it needs. We try to combat this with moisturizers, but the better way is to put the moisture INTO your body, not on it.

Dragon fruit juiceImage via WikipediDrinking pure water, unprocessed fruit juices or coconut milk will give your body and skin the hydration it needs. The natural colors in fruit juices are the colors of the earth and these colors will reflect themselves in warm and healthy skin tones.

The overall effects of caffeine on your body will manifest themselves in your skin. Heavy caffeine drinkers can experience osteoporosis, headaches, depression, sleeplessness. These can all be reflected in your skin.

When you replace colas, coffee and teas made with boiling water with water, fruit juices “sun tea” and coconut milk, you’ll soon start to feel better and sleep better. Your skin will reflect the good health of all the organs and cells of your body, once you’ve kicked the caffeine habit.
Another reason for drinking pure water, juices and “sun tea” is that when you boil water, you’re releasing oxygen from it. When the body rids itself of toxins, it passes through the skin which is the largest elimination organ. Raw food increases your detoxification rate. Drinking water helps the body rid itself of toxins. Seaweed is high in vitamins and minerals beneficial to the skin and also helps rid the body of toxins.
To achieve a healthy complexion, drink plenty of water and eat plenty of raw food. What goes into your body is reflected in your overall appearance - and in your skin.
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