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Love List {October}

October 29, 2014 · 71 Comments

How did it get to be October already?

I hope it’s warming up where you are and you are getting ready for summer and the festive season!

Here are some of my favourite things this month, plus some amazing deals for you and some ideas for Christmas!

 

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♥ Love from Lovage. The lovely Heidi at online natural beauty store Lovage is kindly offering all of you FREE SHIPPING from now until the end of November. Just enter NNAMFREE at the checkout!

Lovage stocks all the top brands in natural beauty like La Mav, Weleda, Ere Perez and Vanessa Megan. A great one stop shop for all your hair, body, skincare and make up. Heidi also offers a  30-day money back guarantee and a $5 voucher when you sign up for the free newsletter! There are some cute little gift packs over there too that would make perfect Christmas gifts.

You can keep up to date with the current specials and info at the Lovage Facebook page.

 

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♥ Halloween Popcorn. There is so much controversy about Halloween – you either love it or you hate it! Personally, I don’t mind kids having a bit of fun, but I don’t like the obscene amount of fake food that normally is associated with it. Here is a great idea to make for Halloween without all the nasties. It’s my Salted Caramel Popcorn. My friend Rachel pops it into individual cupcake papers to hand out to the kids. I think it’s a great idea!

 

 

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♥ Wormly Organics – new kids on the block. Ricky and his team at Wormly Organics started their new family owned online health food store late last year after seeing a growing need for quality health products that were hard to source.

Their goal is to be a household name in Australia for the 1# online health food store – ‘we are the new kids on the block and we plan to be different’! As well as stocking a large variety of organic, gluten free and health food products, you will also find some interesting information on their website about health & wellness, industry news, recipes and featured guest bloggers.

Ricky is kindly offering all of you a 10% discount and a sample of Banjo the Carob Chocolate Bear with every order from now until the end of November. Just enter the code: newagemum at the checkout!! You can also keep in touch with Wormly Organics and what they are up to at their Facebook page.

 

 

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♥ The Nourished Psychologist. I am such a huge fan of Monique Phipps! She is clinical psychologist, specializing in nutrition. The missing link! Her blog post about gluten and mental health is a must read. We have been getting some really good holistic advice from Monique and it’s really helping. You can get a consult with Monique via Skype, read her blog posts and keep in the loop with her on Facebook. I highly recommend this lovely lady – she has a big heart and her holistic approach to mental health is truly wonderful and effective.

 

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♥ Milk and Masuki. Laura at fabulous online eco store, Sustainababy has a new range of gorgeous kid’s clothes – Milk and Masuki. This range is an Australian design label specialising in stylish eco-friendly baby and kids clothing. Their trademark geometric designs are modern and clean (and a lot funky) and made from organic cotton. For the first time, their spring/summer collection features an Aussie possum. There are a few cute items on sale too, so check them out over at the website.

Laura is kindly offering FREE SHIPPING for you guys! Woohoo! Just use the code: secretshipper at the checkout. But hurry, it’s only until the 14th of November.

 

 

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♥ Lunch Box Solutions from Cut out the Crap. Squeeee! I am so excited about Collette’s new cook book! The recipes are perfect for school lunches as they are all gluten free, dairy free, nut free, additive free and refined sugar free. Oh and totally yum in tried and tested Cut out the Crap style. They are now available at Collette’s online store and ready to be shipped out to you. I know a few people on my Christmas list that will be happy with this!

This giveaway has closed! The lucky winner is Lauren!

Giveaway: Collette is kindly offering one of you a copy of Lunchbox Solutions! All you need to do is make sure you are a liker of the Cut out the Crap Facebook page and leave us a comment on this blog post telling us why you simply must have this book!

[box] Terms: Australian residents only. Winner will be chosen using random.org from those meeting the entry criteria. Closes 8th of November at 9am AEST. Winner will be notified by email and announced on this blog post. [/box]

 

 

 

♥ Easy Homemade Gluten Free Pasta. The always amazing and innovative Tania Hubbard from Grain Free Gluten Free Co has come up with this three ingredient recipe to make your own own pasta! She truly is Australia’s gluten free goddess!!! I am in awe at her quick and easy recipes. It makes eating real, whole foods that are also gluten and grain free, really achievable.

Subscribe to Tania’s food tube channel  for her latest videos – she also has a scone and pastry recipe over there. Tania’s recipes can also be found at her website and Facebook page.

 

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♥ Everyman Jack. Yeah, I know the blokes get a bit neglected here at NNAM, so this one is for them. I am absolutely loving this range of men’s natural body products from Simone at Nourishing Hub. There is deodorant, face wash, moisturizer with an spf, shaving cream and hair products. The prices are very reasonable as well, so I am thinking a little hamper for my teenage boy is the way to go for Christmas!

Check out the range online at Nourishing Hub.

 

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♥ This quote.  I saw this quote on Facebook and I keep coming back to it as it’s resonating with me so strongly at the moment. Do you like it?

 

 

Okay, that’s what’s happening this month! What have you found lately that you are loving? Share with us!

 

 

Filed In: SELF

Love List {September}

September 29, 2014 · 4 Comments

Spring has sprung!

I love the change in the air – it’s been glorious here.

Here are some things that floated my boat this month. What did you discover?

 

I am mighty!

♥ You all know Vegemite isn’t that great for you, right?  Well, Lisa at Happy Tummies has found this amazing alternative to stock in her online store. I Am Mighty is from Naked Treaties in Byron Bay.  It’s gluten free, dairy free, vegan, raw, fair trade and organic.

It has a salty, almost nutty taste – it’s made from only organic black sesame seeds, organic tamari and nutritional yeast. That’s a lot of great nutrients as well! You can get it from Lisa here.

 

 

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♥ My other favourite Lisa is Lisa Corduff! I love her down to earth approach to eating wholefoods.  She’s a mum of three small kids and the videos she posts to her FB page make me laugh and laugh.  She has created an amazing four week course called Small Steps to Wholefoods and I’m so looking forward to taking part in October.  Sometimes we all need reminding about just how easy it can be to eat real food.  Full of expert interviews, information, video messages and stacks of recipes, the program will either get you back on track with eating wholefoods or educate and inspire you to start your journey. Find out more here. 

 

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♥ This cool tutorial from Make it Love it shows you how to upcycle an old shirt into a funky skirt! So easy!

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♥ The lovely Stefanie from The Organic Beauty Store has a great special – buy one get one FREE on all Inika products! Until stocks last, no code needed. Shop here.

 

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♥ This quote from Golda Portesky really resonated with me this month. It seems like everyone I know is going through some sort of life changing struggle! Stay strong and grow with it.

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♥ Oprah has released a new book called What I Know for Sure. An easy to read collection of essays that will inspire and uplift. Oprah has such a gift of being able to connect with people.

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♥ The Sustainable Table has a great fundraising initiative in October – Give a Fork – to help save the oceans and preserve fish for future generations.  Host a sustainable seafood dinner party. You get a host pack and all the resources to cook a delicious sustainable seafood dinner. There are prizes and a free recipe book!

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♥ 4 My Earth snack pockets are used on high rotation in our house. They have helped us give up plastic wrap for good! Very durable, the pockets have endured lots of washing and kids and are still in great condition. 

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 ♥  This blog post. Wow. Just read it.

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♥ The lovely girls at Nutra Organics have got their first lot of stock in for their new Whole Pantry range. First up is coconut oil. Don’t miss the FREE smoothie cookbook with every purchase in September and 15% off value packs this month too!

 

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♥ Naturopath Jules Galloway is taking 20% off her fabulous cookbook, Desserts Raw and Simple, but only for a limited time!

Last Chance

♥ Eco mum, Laura Trotta from Sustainababy is kicking off her 8 week course tomorrow. You will learn how to save money, help the earth and keep your family safe and healthy. Home Detox Bootcamp is where Laura guides you through it all step by step! Hurry, you will need to get in quick to make the cut off for this one!

 

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♥ Happy Skincare is having a great special on some of their Adorn makeup. Blushers, bronzers and lipsticks are nearly half price at just $20 each! No codes needed, just shop here.

 

 

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♥ One of Australia’s leading naturopaths and nutritionists is also running a course in October. Emma Sutherland has a four week Community Cleanse for you to regain your mojo! Get clearer skin, less bloating, weight loss, better sleep, improved digestion and loads more. Find out details here.

 

♥ On Sale!

Check out the clearance sale items this month at Aussie Health Products, Biome Eco Store, Organics on a Budget and Native Box. I love getting an awesome deal.

 

What things are you loving this month? Share with us!

 

 

Filed In: SELF

Happiness = Balance

September 23, 2014 · 2 Comments

Happiness = Balance

I am thrilled to be welcoming my friend and a woman I admire greatly, Nicole Cunningham from Puraforce Remedies to the blog today as a guest blogger.

 

Happiness = Balance


What is the true meaning of happiness?

 Some say that happiness is the journey, not the destination but where is the journey heading to? I think the key to happiness is finding balance.


Balance is the key to a sustainable emotional and physically involved life. It is the essential key in being able to maintain relationships, careers, parenting roles and a healthy and fit physical body. The journey itself to happiness I believe lies in the ability to create and maintain balance within ourselves. Once this balance or mid point has been visited even just once we begin to connect to it and know what it feels like to be off centre and out of balance. This magical line in the sand or destination is not outside of us but rather is a feeling and a knowingness that resides only within us.

Once our mid point or maybe we can even call it our ‘tipping point’ is found we can begin to check into ourselves of what feels right or wrong. Not a place of moral judgement but instead a place where a feeling of health and wellbeing resides. We all know what makes us happy and what makes us feel well. In the same way we are aware of the things that make us feel tired, stressed, unfit, unhealthy and drained of physical and emotional energy.

By moving and implementing the things that make you feel good we get closer to this midpoint of balance and we can work towards maintaining it. This brings happiness, freedom and the place of health and happiness that we are all trying to obtain.

Here are my best tips towards finding your midpoint:


1. Do what you love. Every day fill your life with the activities that bring you love and fulfilment. Stop chasing the money and the acknowledgement and start chasing the joy! When you do this balance comes and so does the money!


2. Live your truth


3. Dig deep and define your values


4. Never compromise your ethics and integrity


5. Exercise and eat well EVERY DAY- there is no point in working so hard and not having the health or mobility to enjoy what you have created.

 

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I also use Homeopathy to create balance for myself, my family and the patients in my practice. Homeopathy balances the mind and body enabling a person to live up to their highest potential. My removing and managing illness naturally, restoring health and wellbeing homeopathy can greatly impact happiness.

My passion is to treat women as I believe that once you can change a woman’s outlook, health and ability to find balance for herself then she can recreate that for every aspect of her family’s life. I have a motto in my clinic, when you balance a mother you balance a family!

Homeopathic medicine uses plant and mineral remedies in minimum doses to create the maximum impact. It works brilliantly alone but can also be used my those who are taking pharmaceutical medications and even for newborns and the elderly.

Homeopathic medicine can help you find that midpoint of balance and in this way it is a true step forward towards achieving happiness for yourself.

 

Nicole Cunningham

 

About Nicole:

Puraforce Remedies founder Nicole Cunningham is a qualified Practitioner of Homeopathic Medicine with over 12 years experience as a clinician, speaker and educator, educating parents and promoting natural alternatives. Nicole was the Vice President of the Australian Homeopathic Association Victorian Branch for 5 years and has founded a Homeopathic charity Rebalance the Globe, providing homeopathic healthcare to 11 villages north of Kolkata, India.

Nicole creates Homeopathic health products that assist the whole family. Nicole’s qualifications include an Advanced Diploma in Homoeopathy and an Advanced Diploma in Reflexology. Nicole has also participated in post graduate study in a Homoeopathic Hospital near Mumbai, India. In addition to Homoeopathic Medicine, Nicole has a passion for mind/body medicine and nutrition. Nicole lives in Mount Gambier, South Australia with her partner Adam and daughters Anika and Alyce.

WEBSITE: www.puraforceremedies.com

FACEBOOK:  www.facebook.com/puraforceremedies

Call Nicole for FREE health advice – TOLL FREE 1800 244 449

 

Filed In: SELF

20 Practical Tips to Protect your Energy

September 18, 2014 · 14 Comments

20 Practical Tips to Protect Your Energy

 

20 Practical Tips to Protect your Energy

 

You know that feeling?

You feel tense, drained, uncomfortable, confused not quite right?

You may have taken on some negative energies. Perhaps you are an empath or a highly sensitive person. Your job might be highly stressful or emotional.

When your energy is balanced, your health is better, you are happier and life is easier.

Check out these 20 practical tips to protect your energy.

 

1. Crystals. Black Onyx protects our personal energy and can absorb negative energy. Black Tourmaline protects against negativity directed at us. Rose quartz is another that can be used. The high energy of  rose quartz gives it the ability to enhance love. It will bring love into your life and any situation, lower stress and soothe. You can wear crystals as jewellery, put them in your pocket or tuck them in your bra. 

 

2.  Becoming aware. A crucial part of protecting your energy is becoming aware. What are you feeling? Is it because of a place, a person or a situation? Once you learn to be in tune with your body and emotions, it’s easier to be pro-active and protect yourself.

 

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3. Kashyapa Mudra. This mudra (hand positions) helps to balance and protect against negative energies. Use it when you are in a situation of negativity or visiting a place with dark energy. Find out more here.

 

4. Salt Bath. Bathing is fabulous for getting rid of any negativity or unwanted energies. You can add sea salt, pink himalayan salt or magnesium chloride flakes to your bath for a lovely cleansing effect.

 

5. Earthing. Connect with nature. Stand on the grass or beach with barefeet and imagine the energy rising up from the earth and filling your body. Doing this regularly can also make you stronger against negative forces.

 

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6. Meditation. Meditation can bring us back to ourselves and refuel our own energy when it has been depleted. Check out this guided meditation from Helen at The Little Sage that is specifically designed for this purpose.

 

7. Bubble of Light. This is a very popular and effective technique to use prior to going into situations where you feel your energy might be compromised. Visualize a bubble of light – some people like white, blue or purple coloured light (it’s up to you). Imagine yourself stepping into that bubble and being surrounded by the colour and protected. Another idea from our Facebook community was to send pink healing, loving light to negative or difficult people.

 

8. Ask the angels. Ask Archangel Michael for protection by simply saying “Archangel Michael, protect me now”. For more information take a look here.

 

9. Cut cords. “Basically, an energy cord is created between two people where an energetic exchange occurred – usually formed by an exchange of emotions or thought forms.” If this connection becomes toxic, you are able to visualize the cord or bond being cut. For a great explanation of how to do this and more information, visit the website of psychic Amanda Linette Meder.

 

10. Space clearing mist. This beautiful mist from Australian Bushflower Essences is a blend of aromatherapy oils, botanicals, cleansing herbs and Australian Bush Flower Essences. It encourages a feeling that you are in a sacred and harmonious environment and protects from negative energies. 

 

11. Essential Oils.  All essential oils help raise your vibration but for specific protection of your energy, try geranium, sandalwood, myrrh, sage, frankincense and cedar wood. Choose good quality, pure oils for the best benefit.

 

12. Feng Shui. According to Feng Shui principles, four animals can protect the energy of your home. The Green Dragon, The WhiteTiger, The Black Turtle and The Red Phoenix. Find out more here.

 

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14. Dance, music and moving. All these things can all help clear negative energies and restore balance in your body. Try specialized dance like Wu Tao, Chakra Dance or Nia which are all spiritual based.

 

15. Learn to say no. Taking on only what you want to do and what you can physically do is one of the best ways to protect your energy and avoid being emotionally and physically drained. Kirri White, life coach tells us how to say no and reclaim our life.

 

16. Be choosey about what you allow into your consciousness. Avoid gossip, drama and negative talk.  Keep away from toxic, draining energy vampires. Stop watching the news. Raise your vibration with things that make you feel good. As Oprah says “Surround yourself only with people who will lift you higher”.

 

17. Affirmations and Intentions.  The power of the sending out your intentions to the universe is amazing. I used to do this when working in retail before each day began. After a spate of negative interactions, I started affirming that “only happy, positive people come into my space today” and it worked! As you leave a negative situation or place you can also say something like “I now release anything which does not serve me”.

 

 

18.Smudge. Smudging is used for clearing negative energies. To use, just light the bundle of herbs and blow it out until it is emitting a lovely stream of smoke.  Take it around your house or office or just around your aura and set your positive intentions while doing so. The negative ions in the sage will make you feel cleansed and peaceful. Read more about how to smudge here.

 

19. Use your breath. A simple and quick technique that can be done anywhere. Visualize all the negative energy leaving your body when you exhale. On the inhale, visualize your body being filled with positive energy, happiness or love.

 

20. Self examination.  If negative energy, places and situations keep cropping up in your life, you may want to ask yourself why you are attracting this. Is it a life lesson to learn? Why does it serve you?

 

You might also like to read:

What is smudging and how do you do it?

How to cleanse your crystals

 

I would love to know how you protect your energy!

Does any of this resonate with you?

Lemon Canary

Filed In: SELF / Tagged: angels, awareness, bubble of light, crystals, cut the cords, dancing, earthing, energy, energy protection, feng shui, meditation, mudra, music, protection, salt bath, yoga

Love List {August}

August 29, 2014 · 6 Comments

August -where have you gone ???

Here is my monthly round up of cool products, people, blogs and books that I am loving!

 

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♥ Kombucha is so hot right now! But, it can be so confusing to know where to start and how to do it! Well, the lovely Kristen from Naturally Better Foods has sorted it all out for you.  They are now selling a Kombucha Starter Kit! You get a massive 4.25 litre glass jar, a scoby (that’s the mushroomy looking thing you need to make it) and three kombucha shots to get you inspired. They can deliver Australia wide and it’s on sale at the moment for $45.oo. It’s time to get brewing!

 

Children Who Shine from Within - Hands Free

♥  This gorgeous post from Rachel Macy Stafford, author of Hands Free Mama, talks about children who shine from within – the fireflys.  For every child who has ever felt ‘different’ this is a beautiful, uplifting read.

 

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♥ Breastfeeding? Simone at Nourishing Hub has these new Tanker Topper lactation biccies from Franjos Kitchen. They are a yummy and nourishing way to keep your supply up. They are wheat, dairy and egg free and contain lots of superfoods and are developed by a naturopath (the Jo part of Franjo!). Get them in Choc Chip or Fig and Almond flavours. PS you don’t need to be a breastfeeding mum to eat them, anyone can benefit from them (Simone’s husband has been devouring them!)

 

Noosa Basics Lip Balms and Deodorants at The Organic Store

♥ I love discovering new brands created by small, local, passionate biz doing the natural thing! Amanda at The Organic Store has found Noosa Basics and now has them in store. Noosa Basics are a boutique natural apothecary based in (you guessed it)….. Noosa. Their range includes lip balm, deodorant in a stick and a tub and *ahem* a pleasure enhancer at very affordable prices.

The products are all natural and organic and totally free of all nasty chemicals and toxins. I also love that they source all their ingredients and packaging and labels from Australian suppliers. Get them online from The Organic Store (and check out all the other cool things Amanda sells! I do a regular order!)

 

Painting with Flowers - My Little Sunshine House

♥ Zanni Louise from My Little Sunshine House posted a fabulous blog about how to paint with flowers. What a totally natural paint to use! Absolutely beautiful.

 

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♥ You might remember that I have mentioned I have suffered chronic fatigue for many years and this year I am also facing severe adrenal fatigue and very high estrogen levels. I am recovering slowly with lots of different things, but I really noticed a huge difference in the last few months after being on  Puraforce Remedies’ Wellness Protocol. Now I am not needing a day time nap and can even go for a daily walk again. I also made it through winter without any colds, flu or bugs. Thrilled!!!

Nicole at Puraforce Remedies told me to start taking her Digestion Aid, Hormone Balancer, Stress and Immune Boost drops – 1ml four times a day. I put half in water bottle in the morning and half in the afternoon and sip on it all day. The Hormone Balancer drops are an extra for me in addition to the Wellness Protocol to get my estrogen levels down. So easy, so affordable and with amazing results. I am telling everyone to try this! It can’t hurt! 

You can find out more about the Wellness Protocol here and get a nice discount too (thanks Nic!). Or if you want to chat about your ailments call Nic on her toll free number Mon-Fri 9-5  1800 244 449. The entire range of drops is also at the Puraforce Remedies website – we use her drops for everything now!

 

Heal Your Gut book

♥ Lee Holmes from Supercharged Food released her Heal Your Gut ebook! It’s a cracker and I am loving the recipes so much. I am going to review it on the blog soon, but if you want a sneak peek, then check it out here.

 

♥ What I did on the blog this month. Did you miss one?

– 22 Things to Make Out of Plastic Milk Bottles

– Real Breakfast Drinks for Kids

– 10 Healthy Winter Desserts

– Healthy Swaps – Toilet Deodoriser

– Cool Ideas for Father’s Day

 

{parts of this post are sponsored}

Filed In: SELF / Tagged: bargains, favourite things, love list, sales

Love List {July 2014}

July 30, 2014 · 6 Comments

Already half way through the year, tax time and chilly nights….. July!

Here’s this month’s roundup.

 

No More Fatigue Wristlet from Sanctus Stones

♥ No More Fatigue Wristlet. This gorgeous crystal wristlet is one of the new motivational wristlets from the girls at Sanctus Stones. These pieces are incredibly powerful. The crystals are chosen for their unique properties and come in a  bamboo gift box with full details about how to care for your piece and how to program it with your intentions and goals.

I have been wearing it for a month and I adore it – people are always commenting on it. As well as the powerful energy of the crystals, it’s also a visual reminder for me to take care of myself. My piece is designed for ‘No More Fatigue’ but you can also get other wristlets – Be Healthy, Be Protected, Manage your Money, Handling Depression, Joy and Happiness, Stress Less, Take Charge of your Life and Control Anxiety. You can check out the whole range on the Sanctus Stones website.

 

Personal Blend

♥ My personal blend.  I am so in love with the personal blends that Alisha from Naughty Naturopath Mum makes up for me. They are truly amazing in helping me deal with what life throws my way. I notice a difference when I don’t take them and get my butt into gear and order some more! I have tried the ones from the health food store, but Alisha’s  blends are so much more powerful – I think it’s all the love she puts in them! Find out more here.

 

Inliven

♥ Half Price Inliven! Woohoo – my favourite probiotic is half price until stocks last, due to some scuffing on the labels. I stocked up! I love this Aussie brand that uses certified organic products of the highest quality. I have been using it for about five years and I credit it with improving my health and keeping lurgies at bay! Only available online.

 

queen quote

♥ This quote has been in my head for weeks. I have taken on the word grace as my mantra. Does it speak to you?

 

little sage

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♥  The Little Sage website. I discovered Helen and her fabulous blog a while ago but this month, it jumped out at me on my Facebook newsfeed and I really resonated with everything she was writing. From her self-care My July to setting new moon intentions, I am hooked! Helen is a mum from Brisbane whose aim is ‘guiding and supporting you towards a life you love, intuitively’.  

 

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♥ Natural New Age Mum’s Group. A few of you asked me to set up a Facebook group for you so you could chat in private, so ta da …. it’s here! I am already loving the energy in there – beautiful souls with beautiful support and friendship. This will be the spot to ask questions of our community of like-minded mums.  You can join us here.

 

♥ Changing Habits updates programs. Cyndi O’Meara, nutritionist at Changing Habits is such a leader in her field. She has recently updated her 21 Step Reset and her 4 Phase Fat Elimination Protocol to be even better. These are both great programs if you need some help getting your health under control.

 

♥ Did you miss a blog post?

Here is what I talked about this month:

Do we have the right.  Reader Bea talks about chemicals and the environment.

10 Nourishing Winter Dinners.  A collection of dinners to nourish and comfort you on a cold night.

Magnesium: This could be your new best friend. Many people are deficient in magnesium!

10 Ways to reduce plastic in your life. Ditch the single use plastic .

Why pregnant women should do yoga. Lou from Yogi Tree shares her wisdom with us.

My easy gf apple and fig crumble. Delicious winter goodness that is also pretty healthy!

Sophia Eats – A book review and giveaway.  A new book by nutritionist and naturopath, Emma Sutherland.

Lemon Yoghurt Cake. Gluten free and super easy to make in the thermomix!

 

♥ Bargains

♥ Don’t miss 10% off the amazing Thriving range of protein powders from Nutra Organics. My kids love them.

 

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♥ Skin B5 deals. 50% off Acne Control Caplets (use code SKINREHAB) and 50% off the Skin Purifying Mask (use code BESTMASK) only available online. 

♥ Clearance Sales. There are some sweet deals to be had at Aussie Health Products, Biome Eco Stores, Hello Charlie (eco baby stuff) and Avancer Home Appliances this month. Some things are even up to 70% off! This is how you shop for health stuff when you are on a budget!

 

What have you been discovering and loving this month?

 

 

Filed In: SELF

Why Pregnant Women Should do Yoga

July 19, 2014 · 10 Comments

Why Pregnant Women Should do Yoga

My gorgeous friend Lou from Yogi Tree is a yoga instructor with a special interest in pre-natal yoga. I have asked her to share a bit about why this is so good for expectant mummas.

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Although I have been practicing yoga for over 10 years – it was falling pregnant that really made me realize how amazing it is.

I guess growing another little human being inside is the ultimate motivation for a bit of self-care, yes?  During my pregnancy, yoga helped me relax my mind, stretch and open my body, all while teaching me the fundamentals of a magically strong BREATH which, boy oh boy came in handy during labour.

Putting the physical and emotional benefits aside for a minute (of which there are MANY!) – simply taking time out for yourself is something so important (and often pushed aside with our hectic lifestyles).  When you take time for yourself and focus on simply BEING and BREATHING you let external distractions simply melt away…. giving you the amazing opportunity of connecting with yourself, and your child.

I love the energy of a pregnant woman – vibrant, excitable, dedicated, determined, and brimming with love.  It is usually yoga that helps coax out these qualities – the focus that I see from my prenatal clients has no rival!  So why should someone do prenatal yoga?  What if you are a beginner?  What if you have specific injuries or pregnancy complications?

 

♥ First things first – choose your teacher wisely.  Prenatal yoga (to me) is a lot more of an intimate learning environment.  A lot of my classes end up in a huge counselling session where we all start venting and sharing our experiences!  Choose someone you feel comfortable with, and trust – follow your gut – a good prenatal teacher will be there to support you through EVERYTHING.   Prenatal yoga is so much more than just doing a few yoga postures.  Your perfect teacher will be able to specifically tailor your practice depending on your stage of pregnancy and your general health & fitness.

 

♥ Prenatal yoga brings so many benefits – physically you help your body stretch and open…. it’s all about creating SPACE for baby, in an increasingly restricted area!  Building strength and muscle tone is something that will help your body carry the extra weight of a growing child, plus get you through an active labour and childbirth – not to mention a speedy recovery!

 

♥ Yoga will help improve your posture, which in turn helps you BREATHE better.  A straight spine and an open chest helps prana (breath) flow.  The energy of breath flowing through our bodies is our life force – when you breathe properly, your internal organs receive fresh, oxygenated blood more easily, in turn helping your whole body feel and function BETTER.

Speaking of breath – prenatal yoga will teach you the fundamentals of a beautiful, calming breath which you will use during labour.  A calm and deep breath helps relax the body and clear the mind of negativity – crucial during labour.  The breath also helps you focus when you are physically challenged (through dynamic yoga OR a contraction – it’s the same breath!) so by practicing during your yoga class, you are practicing for birthing your child.

 

♥ Pregnancy complaints such as insomnia, sciatica, lower back pain, mood swings, nausea (yes the list goes ON) can all be addressed and relieved through certain yoga postures, stretches and breathing exercises.

 

♥ Prenatal yoga will help you learn to TRUST your body, and let go of fear and anxiety.  Through asana (yoga postures) and pranayama (yoga breath) we can address, and in turn, release negative energy which can hinder the birth process.  When we tense up and fear the pain of childbirth, the physical body goes into a state of “fight or flight” where all the blood rushes to our external limbs.  Through yoga (meditation & breath work) we can learn to surrender and trust that our bodies KNOW what they are doing – by staying calm & relaxed all of that blood stays pumping around the uterus, keeping labour progressing as it should.

 

♥ Through positive visualization and meditation, yoga can help you connect with YOUR true self…. help you find your courage and determination…. and most importantly give you some precious quiet time to connect with your child.  It truly is a magical experience.

 

I could go on for AGES (I often DO during my classes!) about the amazingness of pregnancy and childbirth (and beyond).  For me, yoga augmented my experience.

When the body, mind and spirit combine – magical things do INDEED occur.

 

Meditation

Here’s a super easy 5 minute meditation-exercise that allows you to both connect with your breath AND your baby.

Place your hands on your belly, gently cradling the baby. Observe the sensations felt beneath your hands. (Do you feel warmth? Movement? Can you feel the gentle rhythm of your breath?  Your heart?)  Relax your shoulders down away from your ears and make sure your face is beautifully soft. Breathe slowly, in and out – inhaling and exhaling smoothly and deeply through your nose. (If your mind wanders off, breathe deeper into your belly – right down, deep deep deep.) If a thought arises, let it float away with your exhale.  Focus on just your breath, and those subtle sensations going on inside your belly.

Try doing this for five minutes each day, gradually adding more time each week.

 

Lou from Yogi Tree

About Lou:

Hi there lovely NNAM readers, my name is Louise Mackie, and among other things I am Mum to an energetic 3 & 1/2 year old, a yoga teacher, doula and wholefood cook.  I have recently started my business Yogi Tree on the Gold Coast which focuses on a few holistic “branches” of wellbeing (a few being because I have SO many interests & passions I can’t limit it to one).

Basically, my passion is helping women feel empowered to have beautiful, healthy birthing experiences through yoga, mindfulness, meditation, and good food.  Preparation and education is key – starting awesome habits during pregnancy sets up your whole family for maintaining a healthy and positive lifestyle. If you live on the Gold Coast, I would love to see you at one of my yoga classes! Check out my shop on Etsy for some lovely treats for mums homemade with love.

Get in touch with Lou:  Website  Facebook   Etsy

 

Yogi Tree Wellbeing

Filed In: HEALTH, SELF / Tagged: Gold Coast, Lou Mackie, Louise Mackie, pregnancy, prenatal, yoga, Yogi Tree

Love List {June}

July 7, 2014 · 16 Comments

Winter finally made an appearance this month! 

What do you love about winter? I love having lots of snuggly days with the kids under the doona reading books and catching up on movies. Lots of herbal tea, soups and hot desserts.

Here are some other things I loved this month and a round up of the best bargains around the web!

 

Kitchen Collection

♥ Vegie Smugglers Kitchen Collection. Wendy at Vegie Smugglers has released her new cook book – Kitchen Collection and it’s a cracker.  It would make a great gift for someone starting out on their health journey and wanting some great tips and recipes. But, even the healthiest family will love the ideas. She has everything from breakfast through to parties, lunches and more…! Not available in stores, only from Wendy at her online store.

 

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♥ Mamacino Homemade Granola. Oh Em Gee! The lovely Kristin at Mamacino has finally decided to share her granola with all of Australia instead of just the lucky people in Torquay. I tested out her spiced fig and pecan version this month and yes it is worth of an Oh Em Gee response. With lots of lovely big chunks of fig, pecan and other goodies, this granola is like a (really healthy) party in your mouth. So good with some hot almond milk as a cheeky late night snack. Get it and check out the whole range at Kris’s new online store.

 

Einkorn

♥ Einkorn Flour. Cyndi O’Meara released her long-awaited for organic Einkorn Flour this month.  Einkorn is the traditional heirloom wheat grain and is high in iron, protein, dietary fibre, thiamine, vitamin B6, carotenoids, phosphorous and potassium. This is a lot gentler on tummies! Find out more and listen to Cyndi’s video information about Einkorn here.

 

Adorn cosmetics at Happy Skincare

♥ Adorn Mineral Cosmetics.  This gorgeous Aussie made and owned range is now available at Happy Skincare! You can start off with a sample pack for less than $20 to see how it goes on your skin. I love a bit of one-stop shopping – it saves on postage! Check out the online store.

magnum

♥ Homemade Magnums! Okay, so not a warming winter dessert, but I had to share with you this clever recipe. The amazing Sarah at Clever Cook is such a great recipe developer and this one takes the cake! It’s made from real, whole foods and paleo friendly. Winner.

 

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♥ Circle of Women Quote. This amazing quote resonated with me so much this month. I am so blessed to have a strong circle of women that are ‘my tribe’. I think finding your circle of women is such an important part of your emotional health and self care. Get into it. Image is from Jeanette Le Blanc at www.peacelovefree.com where you can buy it as a print or canvas!

 

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♥ Super Greens and Reds. If you only want to take one supplement or only one will fit into the family budget, then it has to be Nutra Organics Super Greens and Reds. It’s the all in one ‘multivitamin’ to keep your family healthy this winter. It combines foods, probiotics and herbs – no yucky fillers or cheap preservatives, just quality organic goodness. This month, it’s 10% off! Find it online here.

 

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♥ The How-To Guide for an Easier Childbirth. My gorgeous friend Allison just had her second baby and wrote this great article on how she manages childbirth, naturally. You might also like to read the interiew I did with Allison about her job as a music therapist at Oh My Musical Goodness.

 

Biome Affiliate Partner

♥ Huge Sale at Biome! The girls at Biome Eco store are having a massive sale. Some items are up to 89% off! Woohooo!! It’s a great chance to grab something nice for yourself or put away some gifts for Christmas. Don’t forget to use your exclusive reader code NNAM10 for an extra 10% off. Check it out here.

 Desserts Raw and Simple

♥ Raw Dessert Ebook Sale! Jules Galloway, naturopath has reduced the price of her awesome e-recipe book by 20%. Find out more at her website. 

 

 What have you discovered this month? 

 

 

 

Filed In: SELF

The Best Australian Natural Skincare Brands

June 19, 2014 · 43 Comments


The Best Australian Natural Skincare Brands

 

I often get asked what natural skincare brands are best, so I have made you a list with some of my favourites. Skincare is such a personal thing though, so try a few out and find something that suits your skin. Some places have options of sample packs or travel packs, which is a great way to go to see if you like a range. I have added in a few little discounts that I could find for you as well. For specific information, click on the links!

 

“The average woman uses 12 products containing 168 different ingredients daily” EWG

 

Why would you use natural skincare?

The skin is our largest organ and whatever you put on it, goes directly into your blood stream and to your organs. Much of the skincare in the marketplace is full of nasty toxins that have been linked with cancers, allergies, asthma, hormone disruption and so much more. There is also the accumulative effect to consider of using these products, day in day out over your lifetime.

 

Unfortunately, the labelling laws in our country are a little behind the times and products can use the natural or organic labels even if they only contain tiny amounts of natural ingredients. As consumers, we have to educate ourselves and be a little savvy. My top tip is that if something claims to be organic and it’s less than $10, it’s probably not. Good quality organic and natural ingredients are not cheap to produce so you do have to pay for the quality. But, to be honest, I can’t put a price on my health, so I choose to use great quality natural products and cut back on other expenses.

 

I use two trusted resources in working out what to put on my skin – The Chemical Maze books and the EWG Skin Deep Cosmetics Database. Do your research and learn what to avoid and what is safe!

 

♥ Twenty8

Twenty8 is a 100% natural range, free from all synthetic chemicals, preservatives and fragrances. Twenty8 is a truly holistic aromatherapy based range, working on both a cellular and psychological level. Kim uses only the highest quality products using therapeutic-grade, botanical ingredients which penetrate deeply into the layers of the skin to deliver exceptional results. I love these products – the aromatherapy oils really make it a special experience.

Check out Twenty8 online.

♥  Eco by Sonya

Eco by Sonya Driver started with one product – Eco Tan and it’s grown to become an Aussie favourite over the last few years. The gorgeous skincare range is certified organic and powered by fruits, vegetables and seeds. Vegan and cruelty free, Eco by Sonya has no synthetic ingredients and no SLS’s or parabens.

Get it online here.

kelapa organic skincare♥ Kelapa Organics

Kelapa Organics is a boutique luxury organic skin care company with a hero ingredient of coconut oil. The products are 100% natural, made with certified organic ingredients, vegan friendly and accredited cruelty free. Kelapa Organics is an Australian owned family business and is based in Melbourne where all the products are made.

As well as skin care, Kelapa also have haircare, bath, baby and body care in the range. Get free shipping when you spend over $50 and $10 off your first order when you sign up.  I found the skin care range to be great on my face – it’s beautiful quality and feels very luxurious.

Find Kelapa Organics online. 

 

 

Gaia Skincare

 ♥ Gaia Skincare

Gaia provides nourishing skincare products that feed your skin and keep it healthy. Gaia have the whole family covered with GAIA Pure Pregnancy, GAIA Natural Baby, GAIA Skin+Body and GAIA Made for Men. They are Australian made and owned and specifically tailored for sensitive skin, combining natural and certified organic oils and extracts.  Essential oils, rather than synthetic fragrances are used. My family love this range – the boys use the men’s range regularly and the NNAD will not use any other shave gel. A very affordable natural range that is also great quality.

Check them out online and get some free samples or find a local stockist. 

 

The Jojoba Company

♥ The Jojoba Company

 The Jojoba Company has created a natural range of skin and body care products with a strong focus on anti-aging and skin­­­ health.

 

The company are committed to not testing on animals or using animal derivatives, parabens, chemicals, sulphates, artificial fragrances, colours, perfumes, PEGs, mineral oil or petrochemicals.

Check out The Jojoba Company online.

 

Here are some other Aussie natural skincare companies to check out:

 

Black Chicken Remedies –  All Black Chicken organic beauty products are hand made with natural ingredients, no parabens, no petrochemicals and no artificial ingredients. Black Chicken Remedies are free from animal cruelty and capture the powerful and anti ageing benefits of therapeutic oils and plant extracts.

La Mav – Certified organic, Australian made and cruelty free. Love the BB Creme!

Antipodes – These are a New Zealand brand (but I love them, so it’s okay!!) Inspired by the natural beauty in NZ, Antipodes do things with style, from the full traceability of ingredients from sustainably cultivated plants, to local production and recyclable packaging.

Mokosh – Fremantle brand, Mokosh is organic, preservative-free, certified organic, palm oil-free and fair trade. They take an unconventional approach to their formulations, using no water. The moisturisers are thus very concentrated – up to 5 times more than a standard lotion.

Vanessa Megan – Quality natural and organic products, certified cruelty free with recyclable packaging. The beautiful products are luxurious, scientifically proven, eco-friendly, and completely natural and organic.

MV Organic Skincare – Originally developed for those with extreme skin sensitivities such as eczema and rosacea, these products are very gentle and effective. Pure quality and enriched with rare and precious oils, this is a luxury skincare range.

Divine – Divine is a premium quality certified organic skincare range formulated by Therese Kerr in Northern NSW.

 

 

Where to shop?

You can find some of these brands in health food stores or eco-stores, but I prefer to shop online for the great range of products available.

 

♥ Biome Eco Store. Founded by Tracey Bailey, this small family business is a favourite. They stock a huge range of things, that are organic, natural, recycled and fairtrade; skincare being just one of their lines. Tracey has a rewards program, free shipping over $130 and a 5% discount.

 

You might also like to read:

The Best Natural Makeup Brands

The Best Natural Perfumes

The Best Natural Sunscreens

The Best Natural Insect Repellents

 

{this post contains some sponsored content and affiliate links}

Filed In: SELF / Tagged: aromatherapy, Australian skin care, clean beauty, eco beauty, essential oils, green beauty, mukti, natural, natural beauty, natural skin care, oils, organic skincare, skincare

How Positive Affirmations Can Make You a Happy Mama!

June 6, 2014 · 8 Comments

How Positive Affirmations Can Make You a Happy Mama!

I am beyond excited to finally get my gorgeous friend Amy Taylor-Kabbaz on the blog for you!

Happy Mama is her little place on the internet where she has created a sacred space of positive energy and support for mums. Amy’s newest project is Happy Mama Affirmation Cards and she is sharing with us today how they worked for her.

 

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

 

What we think we create – we know that right?

Everyone from Oprah to Gwyneth Paltrow has been telling us for years that the key to a happy, fulfilled and ‘best life’ is positive thoughts and gratitude. Start your day with a positive thought and end your day with gratitude and you’re all set.

Easy, right?

If you’re anything like me, and the hundreds of other Mamas I connect with everyday, this is not as simple as it seems. Babies, kids, deadlines, smart phones, school drop offs, housework, exercise… it can get pretty overwhelming – and if we were to tap into what we were actually thinking at any given time, it will most likely sound a little something like this…

“Oh my god, is that the time? How did that happen? I haven’t even got to my to-do list yet. What is that on the floor? Are you kidding me! Why can’t they ever pick up after themselves. Does being a mother automatically make me a cleaner? Oh no – I have to clean before the family BBQ on the weekend. When am I going to do that? What am I going to cook? I really need to make something healthy. Maybe one of those new raw food recipes I saw… Is that the baby awake already? Great! Now I’ll never get to sit down.”

And that’s all in the span of three minutes.

I know because this has been my thinking too.

While it’s all very well and good for the likes of Ms Winfrey to tell us to focus on the good, she’s not the one raising a family while trying to find a way to still be a healthy, happy and amazing woman.

So is there to way to make it more easy to focus on the positive? How do you change your thoughts when you’re tired, frazzled and frantic?

You simply start with one thought a day.

Just one.

Pam Grout, the super inspiring author of the current New York Times best-selling book ‘E-Squared’ says training our brains to focus on the positive is similar to toilet training a dog. Whenever you find the dog attempting to pee behind the couch, you pick it up, take it outside, and show it the nice big tree. And then repeat. Eventually, the dog will realize the tree is a much nicer place to pee and automatically go straight there.

Your brain works the same way.

For years and years now, your thoughts have been the untrained puppy – doing what it likes, where it likes. Now, with a little commitment and perseverance, you can retrain your brain to follow a new path.

It’s as simple as picking that puppy-thought up and putting it where you want it to be. Over and over. Create a new pathway for your thoughts. Create a new habit.

We know about this toilet-training business – we’re Mamas!

But what’s the new thought you want to focus on?

When I first started connecting with my thoughts on this motherhood journey, it was pretty easy to see where I was going wrong. Figuring out what I should think about instead was not so easy!

After six years of trial and error however, I’ve realized that the simpliest way to connect with yourself, change your thoughts and actually start loving this time in your life is to keep it simple. Choose an affirmation that works for you on the day, and just repeat that whenever you can. Start in the shower, and go from there.

I’m the perfect mother to my children.

 

There’s always enough time in my day.

 

I am calm, confident and happy.

 

I am freaking amazing!

 

Whatever works for you. And whenever you catch that little puppy behind the couch again, repeat.

Pretty soon, your mind has discovered that outside near that big shady tree in the beautiful afternoon sunshine is so much nicer than the dark corners of your loungeroom – and starts going there all by itself.

Can it be that simple? It can. And once you start, you will be amazed at how your world transforms.

Like it did for me.

Amy’s Happy Mama Affirmation Cards are a collection of the 50 affirmations that have helped her turn her world around and become a Happy Mama over the past six years. Beautifully designed and made, these cards can help you focus on one positive thought a day. 

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About Amy:

Amy Taylor-Kabbaz is a writer, broadcaster and mother to three young children. After more than a decade covering breaking news and current affairs for ABC radio around the country, her ‘traditional’ career took an unexpected turn after the birth of her first daughter. When Amy found herself lost, overwhelmed and diagnosed with a thyroid condition, she decided to use her years of research skills to find out everything she could about looking after herself as a new Mum.

Six years later, and two more babies, she now runs the successful website for new  Mums – Happy Mama – a site which inspires Mamas to put their health, dreams and self-care first while raising their families.

Amy also has a regular column in Nature and Health Magazine, is a regular contributor to Wellbeing Magazine and various parenting magazines, and appears on ABC radio around the country discussing parenting and wellbeing.

 

  

Filed In: SELF / Tagged: affirmation cards, affirmations, Amy Taylor-Kabbaz, happy mama, happy mama affirmation cards, positivity, Seek Act Love

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