The NNAM Cracker Christmas Giveaway

December 1, 2016 · 265 Comments

The NNAM Cracker Christmas Giveaway

Woohoo! I get to be Santa (or a sidekick anyway!)

As many of you know, I work with businesses and affiliate partners throughout the year to share interesting products and services with you on the website. I really do appreciate your continued support. I get to feed my kids, Aussie family businesses get their name out there and you get the heads up on the best stuff.

So this Cracker Christmas Giveaway is our way of saying thank you and paying forward a bit of good karma. Check out the prizes and then find how to enter down the bottom. Good luck!!

♥ Lhami Summer Beauty Box

Gorgeous natural new age mum, Natalie from Lhami has one of her all natural Summer Beauty Boxes to giveaway.

Perfect for all skin types, it includes the citrusy Foaming Cleanser, Wattleseed Exfoliating Cream, Soothing Face Lotion, Balancing Face Oil, Peppermint & Lavender Spritz, Lime & Patchouli Body Lotion after your shower and an eco sunscreen.

Over $130 worth of summer essentials for just $74.95! It makes a gorgeous gift too.

Check it out here.

♥ Inspire Me Naturally Salt Lamp

Janice from Inspire Me Naturally is a Queensland mum and the go-to person for all things salt lamps. She stocks a wide range at great prices with a flat rate for shipping. Janice is kindly giving away this natural salt lamp to one of you.

Check out all of Janice’s beautiful products here.

♥ Shop Naturally Glass Lock Storage Set

Joanne at Shop Naturally is kindly giving away a Glass Lock 9 piece glass storage set to one of you! This set is oven safe, microwave safe, freezer safe and top rack dishwasher safe. Made from tempered, shatter proof glass with BPA free locking lids.

Joanne stocks a massive range of every natural product you could think of from food, health, home and beauty to lunch boxes and water bottles.

♥ Nature Delivers Classic Makeup Set

I first met Joanne at a festival years ago and loved testing out her whole range of natural make up and skincare. Nature Delivers is so affordable while still being great quality and you can get $2 samples with free shipping to try out things first.

Joanne is kindly giving away one of her Classic Makeup Sets which includes a mineral foundation, blush or bronzer, eyeshadow, Kabuki brush and a 100% natural mascara in a mesh makeup purse.

Check out everything at Nature Delivers here.

♥ Hippie Mumma New Year Reading

The lovely Jackie from Hippie Mumma has a gorgeous website that is an offering of inspiring articles to expand your soul and find the goddess within. You’ll also find free monthly readings and guidance to lead a conscious and natural life.

Jackie offers private tarot readings and is giving one of you a New Year reading on any topic you like. Find out about your life purpose or what your career and love life has in store.

♥ 4 My Earth Insulated Lunch Bag

I have an eco-friendly lunch bag from Julia at 4 My Earth to giveaway!

This Insulated Lunch Bag is big enough for morning tea, lunch and drink too. Zip close, freezer safe, washable and has a handy name label on the outside. Ethically made from BPA, phthalate & lead free cotton canvas. We have a couple of these bags and they are so durable and easy to wash. We even use them for toiletries and other things as well!

Check out Julia’s store here for a huge range of reusable and eco-friendly lunch products.

♥ Biome Eco Toy Pack

Biome Eco Stores are one of my all time favourite! Tracey has a great collection of eco-friendly and educational toys in for Christmas and is giving away this awesome gift pack.

One lucky winner will get all three of these toys:

Click Clack Firetruck Eco friendly truck designed for tiny hands, made from sustainable plantation beechwood, lead-free paint and non-toxic glue.

Green Start Wooden Puzzle These earth-friendly puzzles are made with wood from sustainable forests, printed with non-toxic vegetable inks and are packaged in a reusable carry-along storage case. Contains 14 fun colourful pieces that are specially designed for children aged 3+ years to enhance their learning skills.

Crayon Rock Bag These beautiful Crayon Rocks are made from non toxic, natural soy wax and encourage a tripod grip, which assists in the development of fine motor skills and handwriting technique.

Check out more at Biome Eco Store here.

♥ Earthing Oz Laptop Protection Case

Laura at Earthing Oz is my go-to person for all my radiation protection and earthing products. They make awesome Christmas gifts for the person who has everything.

Laura is kindly giving away one of these Laptop Protection Cases. They are a case for your laptop with anti-radiation and EMR blocking that you can also use as a workstation. There is even a built in mouse pad.The radiation shielding technology was tested in an independent FCC certified lab to show it blocks up to 99% or radiation (ELF & RF).

Check out Laura’s store here.

♥ Happi Empire Happi Cards

Fran’s Happi products are things that I buy girlfriends for Christmas and birthdays. They are gorgeously designed and charged with positivity and good vibes. Fran is kindly giving away a set of her Happi cards to one of you!

Check out Fran’s store here.

♥ Element Crystal Labradorite

Jackie from Element Crystals is generously giving away this stunning polished Labradorite palm stone. Element Crystals is an online shop based in the Blue Mountains where Jackie lovingly and carefully hand-picks the majority of crystals for their individual quirks and vibrations and to ensure the highest quality possible.

Check out the range here.

♥ Beautiful Because Plume Lash and Brow Serum

Nina has a background as a beautician and now has the most awesome natural beauty store – Beautiful Because where you will find everything natural beauty that you can think of!

She is kindly giving away a Plume Lash and Brow Serum to one of you. This is a 100% natural alternative to conventional growth serums, specially formulated by a master cosmetic chemist. Plume promotes the longevity and fullness of brow and lash follicles to naturally enhance what you already have.

Check out Nina’s store here.

♥ The Spiritual Toolbox Smudge Box

One of my gorgeous natural new age mums, Rhiannon started up her own business this year, The Spiritual Toolbox. You can purchase a range of different boxes and products that are all designed to raise your vibration and encourage positivity and learning about the new age world.

One of you can win The Smudge Box. It contains everything you need for smudging including smudged sticks, spray, crystals and more. Love it!

♥ $50 voucher at Ishani Designs

Alicia and Ajay from Ishani Designs are kindly giving one of you a $50 voucher to spend at their online store! Ishani Designs are a Brisbane based small business that sell gorgeous hand blockprinted boho style clothes and accessories. Alicia designs all the clothes and then they head off to India and get the fabric printed and clothes made up. I love that they use the fabric offcuts to make super cute bras and undies! Don’t miss their beautiful recycled sari gift bags for your Christmas wrapping this year.

Check out all the pretty things here.

♥ Happy Skincare’s Woohoo Body Deodorant

Woohoo Body is one of my favourite natural deodorants ever. It really works!

Aaron and Phoebe are brilliant at creating natural skincare products and their Woohoo range is no exception. All natural, Aussie made and owned, vegan and using recycled packaging, this deodorant paste is perfect for sensitive skin. It comes in Urban and Wild scents and one lucky person is winning them both.

Check it out here. PS use the code: NNAM for your first order to get 10% off!

How to enter:

This giveaway has now closed. Here are the lucky winners. If you have not replied to me via email, please do asap!

Prize winners listed in order of the prizes they have won listed as above.

Angie H
LJ S
Becca A
Sandra K
Kaylee
Cheryl H
Jemima I
Casey W
Lucy C
Anne Maria B
Nicole G
Nichola S
Larissa H
Samara C
Simone

This giveaway is a multi-draw so by entering, you may win any one of the awesome prizes shown.

♥ Be a subscriber the Natural New Age Mum’s newsletter. Sign up here (and get your free ebook too!)

♥ Leave a comment on this blog post, letting us know one of your family’s favourite Christmas traditions.

♥ Share this post at least once using the share buttons below.

Terms and Conditions:

This giveaway finishes on Friday the 9th of December at midnight AEST. The winners will be chosen using a random number generator from those meeting the entry conditions. There are 13 prizes to win and there will be 13 winners. Prizes are allocated to the winners randomly. Please provide a current email address when you leave your comment (not made public) so I am able to contact you when you win. Sorry, only those with an Australian residential address are able to enter. Good luck!

10 tips for a stress-free Christmas

November 28, 2016 · 2 Comments

10 Tips for a Stress-Free Christmas

The most common thing I hear about Christmas these days is how stressful it is!

It makes me a bit sad to hear this, because it’s supposed to be a fun celebration. Having a chat with some of you over at Facebook, I learnt that the major issues seem to be family dynamics, financial considerations, excessive consumerism, pressure for everything to be perfect and unrealistic expectations.

I reckon it’s time to reclaim the Christmas fun! Get rid of the stress and enjoy the celebrations. What do you think?

Here are my 10 tips for a stress-free Christmas.

♥ Get Clear

What sort of Christmas do you really want? Who do you want to spend it with? What do you want to do? How do you want to feel? How much do you want to spend? Are you doing things you hate just to please other people? Are you trying to live up to other people’s expectations or even your own about what makes a perfect Christmas?

Lots to think about! Although there is always room for compromise, your needs are important too.

♥ Get Simple

Unless you have the time, inclination and energy, you don’t have to have a designer tree, a gourmet banquet or a Pinterest-worthy selection of decorations. Scale it down, make it simple and fuss free. You don’t even have to cook – just make platters of cold meat, salads and fruit.

*HOT TIP: Buy or make some santa sacks and your Christmas wrapping will take approximately 30 seconds and you are being an eco-hero at the same time.

♥ Get Organised

Make up some lists – menu plans, food shopping lists, gift lists and start early. Lists can also help you get clear on what is important and what you can give the flick. Mark down on a calendar or diary everywhere you need to be so you don’t forget. Don’t leave everything until the last minute – pace yourself!

HOT TIP: Bake a few things early and pop them in the freezer. If your kids are old enough, get them onto the Christmas baking while they are on holidays!

♥ Get Online

One of the biggest stresses at this time of year is going shopping! It can be time-consuming and exhausting trying to find a park and battling the crowds. I swear by shopping online for gifts and food.

You can get it all done and all delivered to your door without getting out of your pyjamas. There are loads of discounts and free shipping deals around at the moment, so use them to your advantage.

HOT TIP: Check out my Christmas Gift Guides for some gorgeous online presents.

♥ Get Delegating

Don’t do everything yourself. Get the rest of the family pitching in with some of the jobs in advance and on the day. If you are entertaining at your house, get people to bring a plate and help with the clean up. For the perfectionists amongst us, learn to let go.

♥ Get Calm

Stay centred and take time out for yourself during the holiday season. You might want to schedule in a massage, pampering or some yoga classes. You can also use tools like meditation, essential oils and flower essences to help you feel zen. Keep up your sleep, healthy food and exercise so you can cope with the extra demands.

♥ Get Grateful

Whenever I get overwhelmed or stressed, practicing gratitude always works to calm me down. When so many people do not have a home or food or gifts for Christmas, it can make our worries and stress over little things seem inconsequential. Finding a little time to do some charity work over the festive season is also a great way to put things into perspective.

♥ Get Frugal

Nothing is more stressful than getting a massive credit card bill in January, right when school is going back!

There really is no need to spend a fortune on gifts and food, even though the media likes to tell us differently. Challenge yourself to spend as little as possible, put a dollar value on gifts and stick to it, make simple gifts, buy second-hand (vintage) things, do a family Secret Santa or print up some vouchers for things like babysitting.

Get back to basics and give from the heart.

♥ Get in the Habit of Saying No

You really don’t have to attend every function and gathering you are invited to – be selective and go to the ones you will enjoy. You don’t have to catch up with every person you know before Christmas – schedule them in for January. You also don’t have to visit every family member on Christmas Day – share the love and spread out the visits over a few days.

Set realistic expectations of what you can do and want to do and ditch the rest!

HOT TIP: Check out Kirri White’s tips on how to say no.

♥ Get in the Present Moment

If you are just struggling to get through the holiday season and looking forward to it all being over, you are doing it wrong! Focus on the present moment, enjoy it and have fun. Thinking about all the things you have to do just leads to anxiety and overwhelm. And if things don’t get done, will it really matter?

What are your tips?

A natural, new age Christmas gift guide

November 24, 2016 · 8 Comments

A natural, new age Christmas gift guide

I think the older I get, the less tolerant I am of shopping centres!! Finding a park, the noise, the people… it all does my head in.

These days I much prefer to do online shopping from Aussie family businesses. I can relax in my pyjamas with a cup of tea, browse and buy with a few clicks and then get it all delivered to my door.

I have been steadily collecting gift ideas for a few months for you. I am very fussy about what makes it into my Christmas Gift Guides… they need to be affordable, healthy, organic, fair trade, non toxic, recycled or eco-friendly and pretty much just awesome.

Plus, I have also found some awesome deals – discount codes and free shipping so take advantage.

I hope you like the list! Let me know in the comments what you think.

♥ Crio Bru Taster Pack

Get eight taster packets of Crio Bru in a beautiful gift box! Crio Bru is one of my all time favourite healthy drinks. The ground cacao beans come in a variety of flavours for an awesome chocolatey hot or cold drink or for using in cooking. It’s the perfect substitute for coffee if you want to give up or cut back.

If you want to spend a little more, add in a Fressko Flask to brew the Crio in! This is the ideal gift for those hard to buy for people. I often have a few packs on hand for thank you gifts throughout the year and they are always well-received.

Exclusively for NNAM readers, you can use this code to get 10% off everything in store: CHRISTMAS10 until 15 December here.

♥ Hippy Go Lucky Christmas Pack

One of my favourite natural, vegan-friendly skincare brands, A Bit Hippy has this gorgeous gift pack out for Christmas. It’s called the Hippy Go Lucky Pack and you can try out a few things from their range for a very nice $36!
Included is the Rice and Fresh Face Wash, Soothing and Improving Moisturiser, Nothing to Smell Here Deodorant and Pineapple and Ginger Moisturising Lip Balm. I have tried all of these products and they are fabulous quality and work really well, without all the nasties of course!

Find it online here.

♥ Essential Oil Holder

Store and display your essential oils in this beautiful wooden stand. This gorgeous piece is hand made in WA from Curly Mallee wood and finished with natural wood oils. There are other display stands and holders to choose from or ask for a customised piece.

Find them here.

♥ Singing Bowl

This beautiful blue Tibetan singing bowl comes with a cushion and a carved wooden wand in a gift box and includes the story of the singing bowl. Perfect for meditation, music, relaxation, and personal well-being.

Find it here (free shipping when you spend over $80, use the code: X16W8O )

♥ The Art of Frugal Hedonism Book

Living frugally but hedonistically – saving money buy enjoying life! I can’t wait to read this book. Check it out here.

♥ Southern Cross Pottery Water Filter

Southern Cross make quality ceramic water filters that removes virtually all impurities including fluoride and lasts up to 12 months. Featuring a non-toxic ceramic finish with stainless steel tap, these water filters hold 12 litres and are hand-made in Australia to order in a colour you choose.

10% off at the moment and free shipping but hurry ends 30th November here.

♥ Turquoise Crystal Bracelet

Gorgeous healing crystals with charms from Five Star Hippie. There are heaps to choose from over at Emporio Organico here (get 10% off everything until the 30th of November).

♥ African Bolga Basket

Shop the farmers’ markets in style! This multi-coloured traditional bolga basket is hand-woven in Ghana and coloured naturally with vegetable dyes. Sturdy and durable with a leather handle, these baskets are well-known for their quality.

Get them online here (free shipping when you spend over $80, use the code: X16W8O)

♥ Leather Radiation Protection Phone Case and Wallet

Finally, the perfect gift for that hard to buy for male in your life! This stylish leather case has multiple features including radiation protection, a wallet with RFID blocking (prevents illegitimate scanning of your Pay Wave capable cards), a protective cover for your phone and a phone stand!

Get it online and check out the other radiation protection products here.

♥ Soda Stream

We decided to buy ourselves a Soda Stream for Christmas! It’s way more eco-friendly to make your own mineral water and reuse the glass bottles than buying from the supermarket. It’s also much cheaper and saves you lugging home all those bottles.

Get it here with 10% off until the 30th of November, using the code: WBM10

♥ Aroma Move Car Diffuser

Ditch the toxic car perfumes and use something more natural and delicious. I like the black one because it blends in with your car interior, but there are three colours to choose from. You can also use it around the house or take it on holidays.

Check them out online here.

♥ Mindful Mandala Mug

How cute are these gift boxed mandala mugs and plates? They come with non-toxic paints so you can colour them in yourself and then bake in the oven to set.

See the whole range here and get 35% off until the 30th of November or until stocks last!

♥ Handmade Beauty Book

In this book, you will learn how to make your own face and body scrubs, cleansers, toners, moisturisers, hand creams, lip balms, body butters, bath bombs, foot sprays, shampoos and hair treatments. Step-by-step illustrations and clear instructions throughout ensure that recipes are easy to follow. You could package it up with some of the basic ingredients and some jars in a cute basket!

Find it here.

♥ Amethyst Pendant

Karina from Karmic Star has a gorgeous range of hand crafted crystal jewellery. I love this amethyst sphere in hand woven, eco friendly recycled sterling silver.

Check out all Karina’s beautiful pieces here.

♥ Mandala Bamboo Chopping Board

Some zen in the kitchen! Laser engraved bamboo boards, hand made to order in Australia.

Check out the whole range here.

♥ Organic Cotton Bath Robe

A luxurious 100% Organic Aegean Cotton bathrobe in men and women’s various sizes.

30% off right now here (10% off everything in store as well until the 30th November use the code: WMB10).

♥ Oasis Food Thermos

Lunch with bling! I am loving this champagne coloured stainless steel food thermos. Perfect for taking leftovers to work for lunch. It’s very affordable and there are loads of other colours available too.

Find them here (10% off everything until the 30th November use the code: WMB10).

♥ Peony Dip Dish

This beautiful dip dish features five ceramic compartments in a rattan basket with lid. The hand painted blue peony design is hand painted using non toxic paint and glazes and made ethically in Vietnam.

See the whole Peony range here (free shipping when you spend over $80, use the code: X16W8O)

♥ Moon Diary.

Handwritten and illustrated by artist author Shekhinah Morgan, this 2017 diary is printed on recycled paper with vegetable inks. It contains information about lunar lore, myth, Moon phases and times as well as plenty of space to journal or plan your days. For the luna lovers!

Get it online here.

♥ Recycled Sari Flower Garland

This flower bunting/garland is made from recycled saris. You could use it for Christmas decorations on a tree or for decorating anywhere around the house. Super cute.

Find it here (free shipping when you spend over $80, use the code: X16W8O )

♥ Weleda Hand Cream Gift Box

Famous natural skincare brand, Weleda has this Hand Cream Duo Pack out for Christmas. It includes their Citrus and Sea Buckthorn Hand creams in a gift box.

♥ Glass Infuser Dispenser

How awesome is this! Perfect for a barbecue or just keep it in the fridge over summer to get the kids off the softdrink and onto the fruity water. This one is 8.5L and there is 35% off until the 30th of November.

Check it out here.

Thinking of buying perfume this year?

Choose a natural one to avoid nasty toxins. Check out my recommendations here.

Where to shop:

Biome Eco Stores for all things good for the planet

Emporio Organico for a huge range of eco and lux gifts

Oxfam Australia for fair-trade gifts, food, toys and clothes

Yardgames for outdoor and educational toys

Hello Charlie for all your eco baby and toddler toys and necessities

Etsy for all things handmade, unique and beautiful

Natural and Non Toxic Christmas Gifts for Kids and Teens

Cheap toys and gifts, especially those made from plastic are often very toxic. Made from cheap, nasty ingredients and mass produced in often unethical conditions, they also contribute to landfill.

I know that shopping for quality, non-toxic toys and gifts for kids takes more of an effort than just popping down to your local KMart.

I know that eco-friendly, non-toxic good quality toys made by small, ethical businesses cost more.

But I also know that our kids are worth it and so is our planet.

With that in mind, here are some of my top picks for natural and non toxic christmas gifts for kids and teens.

♥ Wooden Baby Gym

Both my kids adored hanging around under baby gyms! It meant I could get stuff done while they were entertained for a bit. I love this eco-friendly, non toxic version. Made from sustainable birch wood, certified organic cotton and sheep’s wool, it’s height adjustable and completely safe. You can also unclip the toys and use them elsewhere. Gorgeous!

Get them here.

♥ Wishbone Bike

So popular amongst our natural, new age mums, the Wishbone Bike is an award winning, NZ design, 3-bikes-in-1! It grows with your child from a push along to a balance bike aimed to take them straight to a pedal bicycle with no need for training wheels.

Made from kiln-dried, preservative-free plantation birch/ash finished with eco friendly glues, certified organic cotton spare parts bag, recycled packaging printed with non-toxic inks.

Get it here.

♥ No Nasties Play Make Up

No Nasties make a range of awesome non-toxic hair chalks, make up and face paint for kids. Kits include brushes, sponges and fun tattoos!

♥ Wooden Sandpit with Canopy

Made from sustainably sourced pine with a fabric canopy. When the kids get older, use it as a veggie garden!

Check it out here.

♥ Yumbox

New lunch boxes are a totally legit Christmas gift!! The Yumbox is another firm favourite amongst our natural new age mums. It’s affordable, leak proof and free of any nasty BPAs and phalates. It is also dishwasher safe and easy to clean and pack – no little containers needed.

See the whole range here.

♥ Lily Lolo Giftset

My daughter said I must put this in the gift guide! She loves this non-toxic range of makeup by Lily Lolo. There are a few different gift sets but this one covers you for eyes, lips and cheeks and it’s in a cute gift box.

Get Lily Lolo natural makeup online here.

♥ Boho Organic Henna Kit

A kit to design and paint your own henna tattoos! Certified Organic henna with 100% natural ingredients, the kit comes with everything you need including stencils.

Check it out here.

♥ Bamboo Phone Stand

Bamboo stand to charge phones and store watches and bits and pieces. Handmade in Australia! See the whole range here.

Where to shop:

Biome Eco Stores for all things good for the planet

Emporio Organico for a huge range of eco and lux gifts

Etsy for all things handmade, unique and beautiful

Secret santa, teacher and stocking stuffer gifts under $30

I’ve got such a mixed bag for you in this Christmas gift guide.

I had so much fun browsing online to collate them all. Hopefully you will find something useful for a teacher, neighbour, work secret santa or something for the kids’ stockings or crackers!

Under $10

♥ Boho Things Face Scrubbies

I got my daughter and I one of these for our stockings this year. Natural fibres are crocheted into a face scrubby that you can use as an exfoliator and make up remover. It’s naturally anti-bacterial, reusable and compostable!

♥ Handmade Leather Earphone Holder

These earphone holders are entirely handmade in Sydney and come with any initials hand-stamped on them.

♥ Sprout Seed Pencil

When you are finished with this non-toxic, lead-free cedar wood pencil, simply plant it and watch it grow! Available in a variety of herbs and flowers. Find them here.

♥ Crayon Rocks

These soy wax, non toxic crayons are shaped to assist in the development of fine motor skills and handwriting technique. You get eight of them in assorted colours in a muslin bag. Find them here.

♥ East Bali Cashews

A brilliant social enterprise selling yummy cashews! What’s not to love? They are pesticide and preservative free and come in a range of flavours. Get them here.

Under $15

♥ Bee Seed Bombs

Perfect for the nature lover, these seed bombs are balls of organic matter with flower seeds. Throw them anywhere you would like some colourful flowers to come up! More flowers are better for our bees. Find them here.

♥ Festive Room Spray

Pure essential oils of orange, cinnamon, lemon myrtle and clove capture the essence of an Australian Christmas with this Festive Room Spray.

♥ Beer Shampoo

The novelty soap that everyone wants. It’s beer in a soap but it’s shampoo! Made from all natural ingredients include Tassie dark ale. I bought this for my Dad for Father’s Day and he is raving about it.

Under $20

♥ Happy Skincare Travel Set

A two week supply of beautiful Aussie owned and made natural skincare! Get a cleansing balm, hydrating mist, face oil and mineral mask. This sample pack has free shipping and a $10 off next order voucher.

Get it here. For 10% off, use the code: NNAM

♥ Bamboo Utensils in Pouch

Keep this in your handbag, work bag or school bag and never, ever use plastic cutlery again. How cute is the pouch made from recycled water bottles? Find it here.

Under $25

♥ Hand Made Super Hero Cape

If you are wanting to get away from mass-produced, licensed kids’ gifts, these capes are the ticket – fabulous quality and hand made by an Aussie mum. All sorts of colours and motifs are available. Love! Find it here.

♥ Bamboo Coasters

I always love new coasters! These ones are made from sustainably harvested bamboo and hand finished with natural oils. Find them here.

♥ Kookery Tea Towels

When a tea towel is not a lame present! I have a couple of these Kookery tea towels and as well as being beautiful quality, they always make me smile. You can frame them for something unique to hang in the kitchen too. Perfect for the punster in your life!

Under $30

♥ Sol Reusable Cup

A little subtle encouragement to be more eco-friendly? Buy that someone a reusable cup. These ones from Sol are so stylish and you can get a drawstring bag to keep them in a well. Find them online here.

♥ Solar Lantern

This cute 1 litre mason jar harnesses the power of the sun and gives you 6 hours light – useful and cost-saving for an outdoor area.

♥ Moisturising Body Bar

Moisturiser in a bar in a tin! Rub it all over your body for a beautiful moisturising massage. Deeply moisturising, it has a subtle hint of essential oils and will also double as a deodorant. Find it here.

Where to shop:

Flora and Fauna

Biome Eco Stores

Emporio Organico

Gorgeous Christmas Gift Ideas

Christmas shopping can be emotional, expensive and exhausting.

Never fear! I am here with a round-up of the best natural and new age gifts for Christmas. Grab a cuppa or a wine, sit back on your couch, browse and shop. Too easy.

Actually this gift guide sort of accidentally, maybe on purpose turned into my Christmas wish list. My birthday is five days after Christmas so I have even more chances of getting lucky!

What is on your Christmas Wish List???

♥ The Jojoba Company Starter Pack

Beautifully gift boxed, this starter pack from The Jojoba Company has a sample of some of their most popular products. Ideal to try them out yourself or introduce someone else to the magic of jojoba oil! I love everything I try of this range and it really has improved my skin. Life long fan here!

You can get it in pharmacies or health food stores or you can buy online here.

♥ Happi Gratitude Journal

My all-time favourite gratitude journal by the very talented Fran at Happi Empire. Beautifully designed, it has various prompts, quotes and inspiration for your daily gratitude.

Get it from Fran here.

♥ Fressko Drink Flasks

These are fabulous! They keep drinks hot or cold for hours as they are double walled and still cool to touch. I love the inbuilt infuser for my loose leaf tea. I just make up a brew before I leave home and sip on it throughout the day – it sure beats buying hot drinks and it’s eco-friendly. They look so stylish as well. You can get a few different sizes and also one in stainless steel with a bamboo finish too.

Get them online here.

♥ Hot Air Ballooning

If you have never been hot air ballooning, you are missing out on a wonderful experience! I went many years ago over the Cairns hinterland and I still remember the beautiful feeling of serenity and peace floating up above the earth. It’s pretty magical!

You can get vouchers for hot air ballooning all around the country online here.

♥ Mortar and Pestle

A mortar and pestle makes a great gift for any foodie. They are so handy in the kitchen – this one is so funky and it’s affordable too. Made from porcelain and bamboo.

Get it online here

♥ Radiation Protection Ipad Case

I actually bought this for my daughter a few weeks ago. It’s a beautiful black leather case that protects you from radiation emissions. There is a massive 50% off the Cellsafe brand for phone (we also have these!) and ipad cases at the moment too.

Shop online here.

♥ Fermented Book

Fermenting is making a come-back but a lot of us don’t know how to make these traditional foods. They do require a little bit of knowledge to get just right. This beginner’s guide will give you everything you need to know about sourdough, yoghurt, kimchi, kefir, kombucha and more.

Get it here.

Stocking Stuffers:

These little gifts are great for stocking stuffers, secret Santas or just for small gifts!

♥ Dindi Hemp Soap Saver

This crocheted hemp soap saver bag comes with a natural soap bar. No nasties – just beautiful natural ingredients and essential oils. The hemp does not rot and will last ages and ages – it’s particularly great for filling with all those little bits of soap so you don’t waste them.

Get it online here.

♥ Love Chai Tea

Love Chai is one of my all time favourite tea brands! They are a small, Aussie owned business and formulated by naturopath Emma Watson. I love that they are all organic and loose leaf so there is no need to worry about toxic teabags.

Get the range online here.

♥ Firelighter

You will never need matches or a lighter again with this magnesium striker that works in any weather and at any altitude. Made in Sweden, it also has an inbuilt emergency whistle. A very practical gift that is sure to also be a talking point!

Get it online here.

♥ Eye pillow

These are the most amazing things ever! Made with natural cotton, flaxseeds and lavender oil, the gentle pressure is soothing on your eyes. A really lovely relaxation experience.

Get them online here.

Where to shop?

Biome Eco Stores for all things good for the planet

Emporio Organico for a huge range of all things natural and eco-luxe

{parts of this article are sponsored and contain affiliate links}

Love List – August 2015

September 1, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Love List – August 2015

The month’s just seem to be flying by! Here we are at the end of August and winter all ready. Although we haven’t really had much of a cold winter here, who doesn’t love the start of Spring?

Anyway, here is my monthly round up of awesome things!

♥ Oxfam Spring Catalogue.

I am a huge fan of The Oxfam Shop and their Spring catalogue has some nice new things. There are great Christmas gift ideas (oh yes, I went there) and if nothing else, their fair-trade, recyclable, biodegradable coffee pods are a must have if you want to ease the eco-guilt of having a pod machine!! 🙂 When you spend over $80 you can get FREE shipping with this code: YV54T7.

Check it out here.

♥ Rolled Paper Beaded Bracelet

I love this easy and eco-friendly idea by Mandy at Sugar Bee Crafts. Use old magazines or paper and upcycle them into a pretty bracelet. A great activity for the kids these school holidays!

Find the tutorial here.

♥ The Fabulous Woman Project

Doors open today for this awesome 12 week online course from Sam Cannell, nutrition and lifestyle coach. I am loving the access to materials before the course starts, the easy payment plan and the lifetime access so you can go at your own pace.

Sam and her team of experts are going to be covering subjects to improve your health and happiness. Nutrition, exercise, mindfulness, meditation, motivation, reducing toxins, getting to know yourself and more!

Find out more details here.

♥ Golden Milk

Golden Milk is so hot right now! The always amazing Cyndi O’Meara has a great recipe for you. Pick the milk of your choice and infuse it with turmeric and other yummy things to make a super duper drink that eases inflammation in your body.

Get the recipe here.

♥ Lady Girl Vintage Blog

I am loving this blog! Lady Girl Vintage takes dowdy old dresses from the opshop and upcycles them into something modern and cute. As a sewing challenged person, I think this is remarkably clever (and eco-friendly).

Check it out here.

♥ Happy Gluten Free Kids

Without a doubt, one of the biggest challenges I hear from parents is when their child has to go gluten-free for health reasons. Bridget Pennington’s new book Happy Gluten Free Kids is the answer! Bridget has been through this herself and is also a clinical nutritionist and educator. So she is perfectly placed to help you with strategies from shopping to sleepovers and make the transition smooth and painless!

Find out more here.

♥ Mizpah

I am a self-confessed word nerd! I came across mizpah this month and I love it. Isn’t it amazing that there is a word to describe that deep, deep connection we feel with certain people. Do you have anyone you feel mizpah with?

♥ Small Steps to Wholefoods

Yes, Lisa Corduff is back with another round of her amazing online course, Small Steps to Wholefoods. As the name suggests, this course gives you small steps to eating more wholefoods for the whole family. Lisa has a great knack at being able to resonate with women all around Australia struggling to get their family eating well. She has a seriously star-studded line up of special guests helping out as well. PS I am going to be the Community Manager (sounds fancy doesn’t it?) for the course Facebook page so I will see you in there!

Find out more here. HURRY! Earlybird price ends tonite (1/9/15)

What have you discovered this month that you are loving? Share with us!

Cool Christmas Crafts with Toilet Rolls!

December 5, 2014 · 5 Comments

Cool Christmas Crafts with Toilet Rolls!

Making your own advent calendars, decorations and bon bons is a great holiday activity to do with the kids.

Using toilet rolls is cheap and eco-friendly and when they look a bit worse for wear, just chuck them in the compost or recycle! I love these ideas.

What Christmas craft do you do? Share with us!

Make a Christmas Tree

Make cute owl tree decorations.

An easy advent calendar.

Christmas Fairy (with free printable)

Wreath

Easy Gift Boxes

Christmas Crackers or Bon Bons

Tree Decorations.

Reindeer

A Healthy, Wholefood Christmas

November 25, 2014 · 98 Comments

A Healthy Wholefood Christmas!

A wholefood Christmas really doesn’t have to involve loads of time slaving over a hot stove. Who wants to do that in 40 degree weather anyway???

My advice is to keep it simple.

Choose a protein dish, hot or cold, add in a few salads or side dishes and a delicious fresh fruit platter. You can cook and freeze Christmas baking in advance and defrost the night before. Starters can be as simple as a wheel of brie scattered with cherries. Make use of relatives and guests by emailing them the recipe of what they can bring.

Serve up some my Pomegranate, Mint and Lime Fizz and some organic wine and beer (less headaches) and lots of fruity water.

Most of all, relax and enjoy this precious time with family and friends. It doesn’t matter if it’s not all perfect.

Anyway, let’s get into the food, shall we?

Recipes

I have been stalking all my favourite whole food blogs in the last few weeks, trying to rustle up a Christmas menu for us. So, I thought I would share with you some of the amazing recipes with you.

Some I have made before, some are new, but they all have a whole, real food style. I hope you enjoy this bumper list of festive foods.

Please add any links you have for more food in the comments and when you make something, use the hashtag #WholeFoodChristmas so we can all get inspired. ♥

Getting Started

Pear, Brie and Proscuitto Forks

Cucumber Rounds with Salmon and Herbed Broadbean Dip

Half Shell Scallops with Garlic and Herbs

Carrot Hummus

Cashew and Macadamia Cheese Log

White Bean and Almond Dip

Chickpea and Seed Crackers

Easy Seed Crackers

Cured Coconut Lime Fish

Fresh Prawns with Two Dipping Sauces

Red Pepper and Almond Dip

Herbed Labne

Sweet Potato Bites with Guacamole and Bacon

The Main Event

GF Sweet Nutty Stuffed Pork (pictured)

Roasted Savoury Spiced Chicken

Buttermilk and Herb Crispy Chicken

Crispy Skin Roast Pork Belly in the Thermomix

Jamie Oliver’s Pork Belly Roast

Slow Cooked Lamb Shoulder with Red Wine Sauce

Roasted Shoulder of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary

Smoked Salmon and Swiss Cheese Tart

Baked Salmon with Coconut and Ginger Crust

Tomato, Asparagus and Brie Tart

Quinoa Stuffing with Fresh Herbs and Pistachio Nuts

On the Side

Salads

Quinoa and Pomegranate Salad (pictured)

Red Cabbage, Apple and Fennel Salad

Beetroot and Coconut Salad

Cranberry Orange Quinoa Salad

Pomegranate and Maple Spiced Walnut Salad

Strawberry and Avocado Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

Watermelon and Cucumber Salad with Coconut and Lime Dressing

Green Bean and Almond Salad

Pumpkin Pear and Pinenut Salad

Cumin Spiced Carrot Herb Salad

Tropical Mango and Rocket Salad

Green Salad with Persian Fetta and Lemon

Roasted Beetroot Salad with Fig and Smashed Raspberry Dressing

Caprese Salad

Beetroot, Apple and Mint Salad

Carrot and Cashew Salad

Lemon Roasted Asparagus with Green Beans and Smoked Paprika Dressing

Pumpkin and Pistachio Couscous

Vegetables

Char-Grilled Brussel Sprouts

Fragrant Baked Carrot Stack

Zucchini Gratin

Quinoa, Pesto and Caramelized Onion

Cauliflower Fried Rice with Tumeric, Ginger and Almonds

Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potato

Roasted Baby Carrot with Pistachio and Hummus

Spiced Potato Wedges with Oregano, Paprika and Chilli

Something Sweet

Fun Food and Gifts

Fun and Healthy Christmas Food for Kids

25 Homemade Real Food Gifts

Reindeer Food, the NNAM way

Grinch Fruit Kebabs

Watermelon Christmas Trees

Edible Christmas Trees

Cookie Christmas Wreath

Sweets

Healthy White Christmas

Paleo White Christmas Rocky Road

Chocolate Coated Nuts

Macadamia Chocolate Fudge

Crio Mac

Rumballs

Apricot Balls

Healthy White Chocolate Truffles

Chocolate Crackle Christmas Trees

Wheat and Dairy Free Panforte

Desserts

Chocolate Cherry Tart (gluten free, dairy free)

Raspberry Marshmallow Slice

Organic Sisters Festive Slice

Christmas Spiced Semi-Freddo

Raw Cherry Cheesecake

Lemon Custard Tart

Sticky Pecan and Hazelnut Tart

Crustless Macadamia Tart

Torte Caprese with Berry Nougat

Strawberry and Marscapone Tartlets

Cranberry Pear Tart

Cherry Jelly

Bitter Chocolate Cheesecake with Goji and Coconut

Organic Sisters Trifle

Cakes, Puddings and Pies

Cakes

Crio Bru Christmas Cake

Gluten Free Christmas Cake

Healthy Christmas Cake

Pecan Cinnamon Spiced Fruit Cake

Ginger and Molasses Loaf

Gingerbread Cake

Spiced Fig and Ginger Bread

Pumpkin Fruit Cake

Spiced Gingerbread Cake

Moist Fig and Nut Flour Cake

Supercharged Christmas Fruit Cake

Puddings

Paleo Christmas Pudding with Custard

Sticky Vegan Toffee Pudding

Grain Free Christmas Pudding

Gluten Free No Bake Christmas Pudding

The Perfect Custard

Biscuits

Gingerbread House with Marshmallow Snow

Gingerbread Cake Donuts

Christmas Cranberry Bars

Gluten Free Gingerbread Men (pictured)

Healthy Gingerbread Men

Gingerbread Cookies

Gluten Free Spiced Orange Choc Chunk Biscuits

Cardamom, Rosewater and Pistachio Shortbread

Mince Pies

Grain Free Rhubarb Mince Tarts

Gluten Free Mince Pies

Healthy Fruit Mince Pies

Raw Christmas Fruit Pies

Favourite Fruit Mince Tarts

Fermented Fruit Mince Pies with GF Pastry

Merry Christmas!

Natural New Age Mum’s Christmas Gift Guide

November 20, 2014 · 46 Comments

Natural New Age Mum’s Christmas Gift Guide

Christmas shopping can be emotional, expensive and exhausting.

Never fear! I am here with a round-up of the best natural and new age gifts for Christmas. Grab a cuppa or a wine, sit back on your couch, browse and shop. Too easy.

I am not going to go all gender stereotyping and say Gifts for Her and Gifts for Him, but I do have a section for the ‘ridiculously hard to buy for‘ people, because we all have at least one of those to buy for!

Actually this gift guide sort of accidentally, maybe on purpose turned into my Christmas wish list. My birthday is five days after Christmas so I have even more chances of getting lucky!

What is on your Christmas Wish List???

♥ Vintage Soy Candle Kit from Lhami. Make your own funky soy candles! The kit includes eco soy wax, wicks, pure vanilla oil, a digital thermometer, 2 antique glasses and instructions. There is enough wax to make about 10 individual candles in the antique port glass size. Or you can try china teacups, or another mould. Your local op shop is the place to go for inspiration!

What a great fun idea to get stuck into on the holidays!! I want one!! Get it online from Lhami.

♥ Kelapa Organics Skincare Gift Box. This beautiful Aussie certified organic skincare range is based on organic coconut oil. I have been trialling it and I love it – it smells heavenly and leaves my skin soft and feeling fresh. The packs make awesome gifts – they are beautifully presented in a gift box with an eco-friendly touch. What I am loving most is the price! They are very, very reasonable and they are good-sized products – so less packaging waste.

This pack is the Natural Beauty pack and contains your basic beauty routine -cleanser, exfoliator, moisturiser and night cream. Kelapa also do shampoo and conditioner, body wash and lotion, hand cream and moisturizer with sunscreen.

♥ Pong Radiation Protection Phone Covers. Yep, I really need to get these for everyone in my family. Simone at Nourishing Hub stocks the Pong covers for iPhones and Samsungs. These covers cut radiation by up to 91%, redirecting radiation away from your head and body. The cases can also improve reception and conserve battery life.

Find out how it works and more details here.

♥ Sacred Self Organic Perfumes. Handcrafted with three signature scents, Mind, Body and Spirit, these perfumes are based on essential oils and infused with flower and gem essences to really give you a holistic experience. Each one comes with it’s own ritual card with a daily affirmation to remind you of how special you are. Michelle McGrath from Sacred Self has crafted something really beautiful and unique with these perfumes. It goes without saying that they are free from nasty toxins and synthetic fragrances that can harm your health. Get them online here.

♥ Durand Kombucha Crock. All the cool kids are making kombucha! Kombucha is a fermented drink made with tea, sugar and scoby. It’s a cheap and effective way to get your daily probiotics and it’s fun to make. But you do need the right equipment or you could contaminate your batch. The Durand Kombucha crock has a plastic spigot and the pottery jar ensures your booch doesn’t get too much light, unlike glass jars. They are all handmade and hand decorated in Queensland and use non toxic glazes and no lead.

Get it online and delivered to your door – but give them a few weeks notice.

♥ Gratitude Journal and Diary. The daily practice of gratitude is one of the most powerful things you can do to change your life. This journal and diary is incredibly beautiful and makes your practice a special ritual. As well as a daily space to record your blessings, it also has a diary, moon orientation chart, inspirational quotes and an astrology guide. Gorgeous.

Get it online.

♥ Believe in People Mug. This range of inspirational mugs and crockery from artist, Rob Ryan is so lovely. I am really liking this one the most though – the colours and the little bird are super cute. They come beautifully gift boxed as well. Add in some homemade biccys and you have a really sweet and inexpensive gift. Get it online.

♥ Aromatherapy Diffuser. A diffuser is one of the best gifts I have ever been given. I have two now and I absolutely adore them. We use them to purify the air in our home, to create a lovely mood and they are also useful when anyone is sick. Depending on which oils you use, you can use them for all sorts of things. I use the Celebrate and Uplift blend from Twenty 8 when I need a bit of motivation to do housework and the Peace and Meditation blend at night time to get everyone chilled out. The diffuser is my preference over a candle burner because I don’t have to monitor the flame. Just set and forget. Aromatherapy has so many gorgeous health benefits. If you haven’t yet discovered this amazing modality, get into it! Get a diffuser and oils online from Twenty 8.

♥ Recycled Sari Handbag. This recycled sarislouch bag is handmade in Bangladesh for Oxfam. It has an internal zip and a pocket for mobile phones. I am in love with this bag!! Supporting this fair trade project helps women in Bangladesh earn an income. Get it online from Oxfam.

♥ Stainless Steel Popsicle Maker. I have wanted one of these for ages. Freezing food and drinks in plastic is something that worries me as BPA is not stable at extreme temperatures and can leach into your food. There is no need to worry with this iceblock maker which is made from stainless steel and has wooden sticks. The frame holds them steady in the freezer. Get it online (love the stainless ice cube trays too Santa!).

♥ Janella’s Super Natural Foods. This one is going to be popular under the tree this year! Naturopath, nutritionist, wellness coach, herbalist and environmentalist, and wholefood advocate, Janella Purcell has released her new cookbook, just in time for Christmas. 150 delicious recipes based on the food is medicine principle. Love it! Get it online .

♥ Kylie Kwong’s Lotus Tableware Set. Designed exclusively for Oxfam, Kylie has designed this beautiful ‘Lotus’ dinnerware and it has been hand crafted and hand painted by female artisans in Vietnam. You can get it as a whole set or just buy individual pieces (from just $3.95). I am so in love with the teapot! Get it online at the Oxfam Shop.

♥ Wu Tao Dance DVD. Wu Tao is a healing dance developed by Aussie mum, Michelle Locke. It’s fun, easy, effective and it can help with all sorts of health problems from stress and depression to diabetes and arthritis. I have the DVD and the books and can’t wait to get stuck in over the holidays and give it a go. Nourishment for the mind, body and spirit. Get it online, directly from Michelle. ♥ Bamboo Serving Bowls. I am sucker for a nice salad bowl and I love these from Casa Uno. Made from bamboo, they are eco-friendly as well as very chic. Get them online.

♥ Wellbeing Magazine Subscription. One of my favourite magazines – Wellbeing is the Natural New Age Mum bible! It has well-researched, intelligent and informative articles, recipes and all sorts of interesting things. I can get lost in a copy for weeks.

Even better value if you get a yearly subscription – you save nearly 30% off the cover price.

♥ Spiralizer. Another thing all the cool kids are doing – spiralizing their veges to make zoodles!! This is a fun way to get kids to eat veges and make a pasta substitute out of zucchini. Sarah from The Raw Food Store has tried lots of them and now she recommends the Gefu one for it’s staying power and ease of use. Get it online from Sarah here.

For Ridiculously Hard to Buy For People:

Yep, we all have one. I hope these ideas help. Think outside the box! ♥ Glasses Stand. A place to perch your glasses or sunnies and never lose them again! So cute! Handcarved from sheesham wood in India by Oxfam partner, Asha Handicrafts. These programs help struggling communities make a living in a fair and ethical way. Love it. Get the wooden spectacle stand from the Oxfam shop.

♥ Cheese Making Kit. These cool cheese making kits from Mad Millie have everything you need to start making your own cheese at home. You just add milk! Contains reusable equipment and quality ingredients – nothing artificial or nasty here. You can make up to 7 kgs of feta, halloumi, cream cheese, cottage cheese and quark. It’s pretty impressive turning up to a party with some fresh cheese on an antipasto platter and tell everyone you made it yourself!

Get it online. ♥ Goats, ducks, chickens, pigs, water and wells. Just some of the awesome charity gifts that Oxfam Unwrapped offer. We love buying these. Oxfam sends your recipient a cute card with what charity gift you have bought for them and details of how it helps someone in need. Gifts start at just $10. Check out the range online.

Where to shop:

These are some more great online stores to check out that have ec0-friendly, upcycled or natural gifts.

Biome Eco Stores for all things good for the planet

Shop Naturally for a huge range of all things natural and healthy

Yardgames for outdoor and educational toys

Hello Charlie for eco baby and toddler

The Raw Food Store for a range of eco-kids products, appliances and food

Oxfam Australia for fair-trade gifts, food and clothes

Okay that’s my round-up! I think I had better email my lovely family this link. So many amazing people making amazing natural products. What is on your wish list? I would love to know.

This post contains some sponsored content and some affiliate links.

The NNAM Cracker Christmas Giveaway

♥ Lhami Summer Beauty Box

♥ Inspire Me Naturally Salt Lamp

♥ Shop Naturally Glass Lock Storage Set

♥ Nature Delivers Classic Makeup Set

♥ Hippie Mumma New Year Reading

♥ 4 My Earth Insulated Lunch Bag

♥ Biome Eco Toy Pack

♥ Earthing Oz Laptop Protection Case

♥ Happi Empire Happi Cards

♥ Element Crystal Labradorite

♥ Beautiful Because Plume Lash and Brow Serum

♥ The Spiritual Toolbox Smudge Box

♥ $50 voucher at Ishani Designs

♥ Happy Skincare’s Woohoo Body Deodorant

How to enter:

Terms and Conditions:

10 Tips for a Stress-Free Christmas

♥ Get Clear

♥ Get Simple

♥ Get Organised

♥ Get Online

♥ Get Delegating

♥ Get Calm

♥ Get Grateful

♥ Get Frugal

♥ Get in the Habit of Saying No

♥ Get in the Present Moment

What are your tips?

A natural, new age Christmas gift guide

Thinking of buying perfume this year?

Where to shop:

You might also like to read:

Natural and Non Toxic Christmas Gifts for Kids and Teens

♥ Wooden Baby Gym

♥ Wishbone Bike

♥ No Nasties Play Make Up

♥ Wooden Sandpit with Canopy

♥ Yumbox

♥ Lily Lolo Giftset

♥ Boho Organic Henna Kit

♥ Bamboo Phone Stand

Where to shop:

You might also like to read:

Secret santa, teacher and stocking stuffer gifts under $30

Under $10

♥ Boho Things Face Scrubbies

♥ Handmade Leather Earphone Holder

♥ Sprout Seed Pencil

♥ Crayon Rocks

♥ East Bali Cashews

Under $15

♥ Bee Seed Bombs

♥ Festive Room Spray

♥ Beer Shampoo

Under $20

♥ Happy Skincare Travel Set

♥ Bamboo Utensils in Pouch

Under $25

♥ Hand Made Super Hero Cape

♥ Bamboo Coasters

♥ Kookery Tea Towels

Under $30

♥ Sol Reusable Cup

♥ Solar Lantern

♥ Moisturising Body Bar

Where to shop:

You might also like to read:

Gorgeous Christmas Gift Ideas

♥ The Jojoba Company Starter Pack

♥ Happi Gratitude Journal

♥ Fressko Drink Flasks

♥ Hot Air Ballooning

♥ Mortar and Pestle

♥ Radiation Protection Ipad Case

♥ Fermented Book

Stocking Stuffers:

♥ Dindi Hemp Soap Saver

♥ Love Chai Tea

♥ Firelighter