Top 10 Products We Love for July

 

1.Wishgarden Kickass Immune

 As we get deeper into the summer months, with our travel plans on the imminent horizon, the last thing we all want is even a whiff of a tickle in the throat. This is House of Citrine’s lifesaver product. We cannot travel without it! With a dazzling lineup of Santa leaf, Yarrow, Elderflower, Goldenseal, Echinacea, Lovage, Osha, and Cinnamon, Wishgarden has created one of the most powerful immune, respiratory and lymphatic supporting herbal potions that is sure to kick any bug to the curb! 

2. Velvetback Palo Santo Incense

Completely non-toxic with no synthetic fragrances, Velvetback creates top of line incense cones that are essential for clearing the energy of the home. Created with the finest Makko bark of the Machillus Thunbergii tree and highest quality plant resins, this Palo Santo incense burns smoothly, with smoldering rich tones of wood. These authentic blends will guide you physically, mentally and spiritually.  

3. Leaves and Flowers Sencha No.60

If you are looking for the highest standard tea for your iced summer infusions, look no further then Bay Area based company Leaves and Flowers. Delicate and elegant do not begin to describe their finely handcrafted teas, drawing inspiration from the mythological beauty of the plants themselves. Grown on Kyushu Island in the Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan, this green sencha tea is light and balanced with just the right notes of viridescent moss. And if you are looking for any information about how to brew tea, check out their aesthetically graceful website guide. 

4. Lydia’s Ginger Nori Sprouted Crackers

These small batch, artisan and nutrient dense crackers are the perfect snack to take to the beach or dip in fresh guacamole during avocado season. 100% raw vegan and made with all-organic ingredients and next to no allergens, each batch is dehydrated for optimal nutrient and enzyme preservation. We are also proud to support Lydia’s for their sustainable business ethics, with their core values grounded in supporting local farms, health food education and community outreach.

5. Omica Shower Filter

Bringing your body to optimum health could simply be dormant inside your own bathroom. By replacing your shower filter with Omica, you will not only boast softer skin and silkier hair, but reap the benefits of absorbing non-contaminated water, by Omica’s use of the oxidation reduction process known as “redox” to transfer electrons between molecules. This is a must have affordable item for all families. 

6. 2Rise Naturals Full Spectrum Hemp Oil Tincture

Looking to hop on the CBD bandwagon? Look no further then the highest, pharmaceutical grade hemp oil from 2Rise Naturals. This potent botanical blend is all natural, organically grown and sustainably sourced, working synergistically to support the body. CBD is non-psychoactive, boasting such medicinal benefits as being antiemetic, anticonvulsant, antipsychotic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-tumoral/anti-cancer, and anxiolytic/anti-depressant. 

7. Imlak’esh Organics Golden Berries

Antioxidant, vitamin and mineral rich, these low sugar berries are irresistible explosions of sweet and tart magic. These berries are powerful detoxifiers that nourish the liver and kidney, while also being the quintessential snack to add to trail mix, cheese plates or eaten on their own! By purchasing from Imlak’esh, you are also supporting small farmers in the Andean foothills, as Imlak’esh altruistically donates 5% of their annual profits to eco-social projects that benefit the people and planet they work with.

8. Honest Hazel Eye Gels

Add this to list of travel must haves right away! Honest Hazel Eye Gels are all natural under-eye treatments that reduce puffiness, brighten dark circles and hydrate the skin. Instead of stepping off a plane looking tired and dull, use this holistically minded remedy item to make your skin glow with Cactus Collagen and Aloe Vera. 

9. Simple Mills Toasted Pecan Ready-to-Eat Cookies

The deliciously brilliant Simple Mills has created low glycemic, paleo-friendly snack cookies free of grains, soy, corn, dairy, and gums/emulsifiers! With only 4 grams of coconut sugar per 3 cookies, these guilt-free snacks are nutrient dense with a diverse team of almond, pecan, coconut and tiger nut flour. They are so delicious you will not believe they are healthy! Our only issue is that once opened, we cannot seem to not eat an entire box…or two. 

10. Osea Atmosphere Protection Cream

Our favorite vegan non-toxic seaweed based skincare line based in neighboring Malibu is the essential addition to your summer regimen. With dry weather, intense heat and powerful UV rays, your skin will need this lightweight moisturizer to hydrate and protect, while firming the skin with a silky light glow. May be used as a primer for flawless makeup application or before applying sunscreen.

Top 10 Products We Love for June

1. Hanah One

Hanah One is a game changer. This Ayurvedic superfood supplement will completely revolutionize your workouts with increased energy and stamina. It is made with 30 wild-harvested botanicals, Keralan mountain honey, and artisanal ghee and is so delicious, we cannot help but eat it right off the spoon. Day or night, add a dollop of this magic to your morning smoothie or cup of coffee and experience a jolt of vitality. 

2. La Aquarelle Wildflowers Sleep Mask

These enchanting plant-dyed sleep masks are handmade with tenderness in London, England. Using botanicals, plant matter, and minerals to dye 100% chemical free fabrics, you bring nature closer to your mind, body and soul as you enter a calming dream state. We adore this pure silk face mask infused with locally collected wildflowers.

3. Davids Natural Toothpaste

Finally a toothpaste that is Fluoride, SLS, and Cruelty-Free and actually whitens, gets rid of plaque build-up and freshens the breath with natural USA farmed mint oil. What a mouth full! We love lathering this minty goodness in our mouths for a radiant healthy smile. So fresh and so clean.

4. Gaia Collective Moon Box

One of the highest quality and beautifully presented subscription boxes on the market, this set of spiritual goodies arrives at your doorstep before each full moon. 

With your membership, you will receive monthly gifts of crystals, essential oils, herbs, guided mantras and meditations, and any other surprise items. We are instantly transcended into gaiety, as we explore our package of spiritual novelties. 

5. Sun Child Silks

As the summer heat approaches, nothing will make you feel more like a goddess then throwing on your Sun Child Silks. With these fantasy and high vibes soaks, you will be blessed with comfort and glamour. Each collection is exquisitely designed and curated with love in both Topanga Canyon and Goa, India. Sun Child also philanthropically donates proceeds to several charities in India. 

6. Barely Bread Onion, Garlic, Sea Salt Grain-Free Bagels

Being grain-free, we have seriously been missing a quality bagel in the morning. However, we finally have found the remedy to our cravings. Barely Bread has created the most scrumptious grain-free artisan bagels that we love munching on with our favorite wild caught lox and Leaf Cuisine Classic Plain Not Cream Cheese spread. Bonus, they are low glycemic as well. 

7. Osea Sea Minerals Mist

This vegan, non toxic seaweed based skincare line flawlessly hydrates and revitalizes the skin during June Gloom. This lightweight elixir exudes botanicals and essential vitamins and minerals, balancing, toning and softening complexion with supercharged Mineral Peptides. You will radiate with the pearly glow of a deep sea mermaid.

8. The Real Coconut Himalayan Pink Salt Coconut Flour Tortilla Chips

Created in Tulum, Mexico, Daniella Hunter has created the most addicting coconut flour tortilla chips that are gluten free, grain free, dairy free and refined sugar free! Cooked in organic Coconut Oil, these wholesome chips are guilt-free crispy snacks that are gone within the first few minutes of opening the bag. Trust us, we are completely addicted. 

9. Blöde Kuh Herbie Vore Vegan Cheese

The ideal dip for our Coconut Flour Tortilla Chip obsession, this plant-based cheese tastes as unique as it sounds. Although Blönde Kuh is only found at Los Angeles based farmer’s and speciality markets, it is worth contacting them directly via Instagram or call at (414) 507-6888 to learn more about purchase and delivery. Their vegan cheeses and yogurts are the crème de la crème on toast, crackers or any finger-licking snack.

 10. Outdoor Voices Terracotta/Rose Quartz/Sand Tri-Tone Kneecap Legging

Chic and stylish, Outdoor Voices is all the rage amongst trendy exercise enthusiasts. Using quality materials and adorable tri-tone patterns, you can span from gym-life to life-life while looking flirty, fun and fabulous. Great for any season or activity, complement these comfortable leggings with the Rose Quartz Athena Crop to finish off your wardrobe ensemble.

Ojai Travel Guide

Ojai, a quaint arts town located about one hour north of Los Angeles, is the getaway hotspot for the holistic and conscious-living enthusiasts. This mecca boasts vivacious orange groves interwoven with solitude and spirituality amongst the unspoiled sagebrush canyons of Southern California. From exquisite local organic food to handcrafted goods and even heavenly nature destinations, this home away from home is the essence of nirvana. 

 

To Do Outdoors

Meditation Mountain

With profound views, lush aromatic gardens, and essential divinity, Mediation Mountain is a beacon of compassion and beauty. Open to the community, this garden of eden is the place to meditate with the spirits and attend transformational events. Hummingbirds, bees, butterflies and faeries all call this mood elevating mountain home as you close your eyes, decompress and meditate amongst the mystical wind. Our favorite place to set intentions for the full moon and let go of negative auras for the new moon.

10340 Reeves Rd. Ojai. CA 93023  |  (805) 646-5508

Ojai Farmer's Market

Every Sunday, rain or shine from 9am to 1pm, Ojai’s true sunshine emanates from its lovely Farmers’ Market. Here you will find local organic fruits and vegetables, fresh gourmet bread, sustainably caught seafood, farm raised antibiotic-free eggs, and handmade soups. A lovely place to meander the booths with your family and enjoy a relaxing morning around local artisans and community leaders. Be sure to pick up some renowned local honey and jam to savor with your artisan bread! 

300 E Matilija St. Ojai. CA 93023  |  (805) 698-5555

Ecotopia Hot Springs

These natural mineral hot springs are where we go to connect ourselves and get back in tune with nature’s rhythms. Ecotopia is an absolutely stunning property, situated on a major fault line, with its water containing a very high mineral content of sulfur. The area is also used as a pick-up for local CSA programs. Please respect the land by turning off cellphones and using hushed and whispering voices. Don’t forget to bring a towel, schedule a visit and be prepared to reconnect with nature.

2566 Matilija Canyon Rd. Ojai CA 93023  |  (805) 727-4117|  info@ojaiecotopia.com

Wineries 

Casa Barranca

This winery and tasting room boasts chill vibes and family values. Only organic, pesticide-free grapes are utilized to produce high quality wines. Casa Barranca’s innovation with sustainable growing practices and solar panel power is another reason why we love it. Make sure to try their divine Pink Moment Rose and Pinot Noir!

208 East Ojai Ave. Ojai, CA 92023  |  (805) 640-1255

Ojai Vineyard Tasting Room

If you want to taste some of the highest caliber Southern California wines, then this is the place. Their large variety and selection of wines comes from over three decades of experience running a winery. With a distinctive European atmosphere and full body wines, this tasting room has nodes of a new and old world vineyard. 

109 S Montgomery St. Ojai, CA 93023  |  (805) 798-3947

 

Restaurants 

Revel - Jun Kombucha Bar

With unanimity, we love Revel’s Jun Kombucha! Jun is healthier than Kombucha, in that it is made with green tea and raw honey, rather than black tea and cane sugar. This unique brewery and tasting bar is a fantastic place to stop by for a smooth non-alcoholic fermented beverage with an array of distinctive flavors or for an acai bowl, a jar of kimchi and other fermented goodies. So relax, bring your laptop and be prepared for some friendly service at this quirky alternative “coffee shop”.

307 E Matilija St. Suite C. Ojai, CA 93023  |  (805) 272-0028

Hip Vegan

This is one of our favorite lunch spots to bask in the sun while eating finger-licking vegan cuisine. Their lovely outdoor space is the perfect setting to enjoy that Southern California warmth and their elevated and refreshing Indo Wrap. We also are obsessed with their Spring Rolls, consisting of ginger tofu, shiso, thai basil, mint, onions, cilantro, fresh veggies, vietnamese dip and covered in an organic rice wrap. High vibrational meal! 

928 E Ojai Ave. Ojai, CA 93023  |  (805) 646-1750

Food Harmonics

Food Harmonics takes the prize for most innovative and highest quality ingredients. This new Ojai restaurant focuses on Ayurvedic food recipes that heal and nourish the body. It is a gluten-free, organic, paleo friendly, nutrient dense menu that supports all local farms and community values. You can grab a variety of meals from dosas, to easily digestible salads, soups and bowls. Make sure to try their sustainable buffalo bone broth (you can add a variety of toppings) and bison burger over sautéed kale! 

254 E Ojai Ave. Ojai, CA 93023  |  (805) 798-9253

The Ranch House

Gourmet and romantic, The Ranch House has date night dinner written all over its historic property. Owned by Ojai locals, Alan and Helen Hooker, this restaurant prides itself with high quality service, array of organic wines, grass fed antibiotic-free meat, sustainably caught seafood, and completely organic local produce. As an added bonus they promote the feat of not using any freezers, microwave ovens or fryers in their kitchen.

102 Besant Rd. Ojai, CA 93023  |  (805) 646-2360

Ojai Valley Inn and Spa

Lodging  

Ojai Rancho Inn

This hip chic little getaway is an excellent choice for the more budgeted traveler. It is a solid choice that boasts reasonable rustic rooms, free bike rental, and an outdoor pool and sauna. The inn is charming and homey - a delightful choice! Pets are welcome.

615 W Ojai Ave. Ojai, CA 93023  |  (805) 646-1434

Ojai Valley Inn and Spa

This is the cream of the crop of renowned bohemian spa getaways. If you want to truly splurge on luxury, stay at the hacienda style Ojai Valley Inn and Spa. Nothing could be more beautiful than walking the acres of pristine property grounds or using their top of the line spa facilities. We definitely recommend getting the orange blossom and honey wrap that comes with salubrious dry brushing and a nourishing body mask. Don’t forget to visit The Spa Cafe, a nutritious new quick bite restaurant and juice bar. Or you can awaken your creativity and take a class at the Artist Cottage and Apothecary. Or even play a round of golf on the exquisite greens. Pets are welcome.

905 Country Club Rd. Ojai, CA 93023  |  (855) 697-8780

 

Stores

Bart’s Books

An obscure book store that just so happens to be the largest independently owned and operated bookstore in the US. Bart’s Books has a great outdoor and rare atmosphere, stacks of great selections of music and used books.

302 W Matilija St. Ojai, CA 93023  |  (805) 646-3755

Fig Curated Living

This offbeat home and garden store sells unique gifts, delectable fixtures, ceramic bowls, succulents and local handcrafted goods. They also pride themselves on focusing their inventory on fair trade handmade items!

327 E Ojai Ave. Ojai, CA 93023  |  (805) 646-6561

Summer Camp

With an inviting modish atmosphere, this store sells custom framing and vintage home and lifestyle goods. They sell handmade cards and delicate decor while supporting local artists and community partner. Their space is available for art shows, photo shoots, and events. 

1020 W Ojai Ave. Ojai, CA 93203  |  (805) 861-7109 

In the Field

Think Topanga Canyon meets Abbot Kinney with a touch of Joshua Tree and you have found this Ojai shop. With boho vibes and a touch of elegance, In the Field sells luxe essentials with high end luxury living pieces.

730 E Ojai Ave. Ojai, CA 93023  |  (310) 403-4292

 

Essentials 

Narayan - Beauty Alchemist

Self care while traveling is essential. That is why booking an appointment at Narayan will enliven your beauty, healing and sacredness. They also sell a completely natural high quality clean skin care line that uses a technique called faceology to bring deep healing, vitality and glow to the face and entire spiritual being.

(323) 683 - 4224 or Book on the website 

Rainbow Bridge Natural Food

We all need to hit the grocery store for those personal products or when we are just itching to make a home cooked meal. Organic, local, high quality, sustainable and earth-friendly market. 

211 E Matilija St. Ojai, CA 93023  |  (805) 646-4017

Local Brands

Ojai Energetics

This is the top of the line water soluble CBD company. “Where nature meets science”, this quality brand also sells 22 essential oil blends and is one of the only companies that includes ORMUS for superior energy. Grab a bottle for heightened physical and spiritual wellbeing.

Wildcare

A truly magical herbal skincare line that sells hydrosols from ethically wildcrafted plants. Each hydrosol has potent skin benefits, balances the natural pH of the skin, and can be used as an energetic atmosphere mist. We LOVE the Palo Santo and White Sage!

Raw Food World

Based in Ojai, this online raw food and superfoods store is the largest in the world. They sell a variety of raw goods from supplements to dried fruits, sweeteners, cleansing and beauty products. Truly transformational products. 

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Sima Morrison, founder of House of Citrine, is a vibrant soul with a potent zest for life and the beauty in its simple pleasures. As a holistic nutritionist, Sima has made it her life's journey to experience, to empower, and to explore the synergy between the mind and the body. She manifests her vision through her online journal, designing recipes and cultivating conversation in the sharing of health, wellness, and inspiration. Sima lives with an open heart and views being in service to others as her most important calling, practicing compassion and helping people to heal past trauma. She is a certified Kundalini yoga instructor and meditation facilitator.

Top 10 Products We Love for May

 

1. Evan Healy Rose Face Care Kit

Simply put, your skin will thank you. This kit transforms dry, oily or combination skin into luscious silk. This rose-based line is formulated to help re-establish a healthy hydro/lipid balance with rose geranium and carrot seed. In the morning, awaken your body by cleansing with rose milk followed by toning with rose geranium hyrdosoul and rosehip serum. Don’t forget to massage in some rose vetiver day moisturizer before stepping out the door and applying on some french rose clay before snuggling into bed. 

2. Kaleidoscope Living Foods Lemon Ginger Miso Vegan Kale Chips and Fennel with Fuji Apple & Lamb Bone Broth Kale Chips

These kale chips are the new wave of healthy raw food snacking. They are so addicting, we couldn’t choose just one flavor. Kaleidoscope Living Foods has formulated gluten, nut and soy free chips that pack bold and zesty flavor into each transient bag. Our favorite vegan and Bone Broth flavors are packed with activated and nutrient dense ingredients that are the perfect pick-me-up snack to brighten your afternoon. You can truly taste the positive energy and ethical practices that go into making each single chip through their community efforts to honor and work with local farmers, wild crafters and ranchers.

3. M. Parke Studio + Parke Rituals Deep Earth Spirit Soak

We hold Melissa Rousseau’s elegant company near and dear to our hearts. With such love and devotion, Rousseau uses only the highest quality organic and wildcrafted transformational herbs, minerals and crystals to create gaia connecting bath soaks. From your root to your crown chakra, you can feel the connection of ritual and healing, as you relax and ground deeper into your infused water bath. This contains top level vibrations with each ritual jar containing a ritual guide, a muslin cloth to create your bath infusion, a rose quartz crystal to add to your bath, + palo santo for clearing your energy fields before your soak.

4. Honey Mama’s Dutch Bar

If the adorable packaging and company name haven’t wheeled you in yet, then their Dutch Bar will. Made with only five organic, direct-trade and non-GMO ingredients, single origin alkalized cocoa, raw local honey, sprouted almonds, unrefined coconut oil, Himalayan pink salt, and La Vencedora vanilla, this elegant bar will send your taste buds flying. It will melt at 75 degrees or higher, but not to worry, you will finish it before it's too late! 

5. Bee’s Wrap Sustainable Food Storage

And if you want to save the other half of that Dutch Bar before it melts, we have the solution. We are buzzing for this innovative company of the future. Founded by Vermonter and mother Sarah Kaeck, Bee’s Wrap was created as a sustainable alternative to plastic wrap. By infusing organic cotton with beeswax, organic jojoba oil, and tree resin, she has created a washable, reusable, and compostable alternative that is a step in the right direction to eliminating plastics. Families can rejoice in knowing their kids will not be exposed to chemicals or BPA through their homemade lunches. 

6. Peruvian Harvest Dried Golden Berries Covered in Chocolate with Yacon Syrup

These bewitching berries presented themselves to Sima while she was traveling through the desert wilderness of Joshua Tree. This snack is perfect for those days you are just craving sugar, however, a plain chocolate bar just wont satisfy your sweet tooth. These treats by Peruvian Harvest are gluten, dairy and, if you can believe it, sugar free! They contain no artificial ingredients and due to their high FOS content, Yacon Syrup has a low glycemic index, which won't cause your blood sugar to spike. They even claim it can help boost weight loss!

7. Urb Apothecary Lips Cheeks Tint/Blush Stick

This Santa Cruz based company’s chemical-free and organic vision comes directly from the land itself. The herbs speak for themselves by complimenting each other in this tint stick by creating a natural rosy glow. You can build your hues of pink and red to create the essential and effortless dewy look that will take you from day to night.

8. Brothee Vegan Mushroom Broth

You have probably heard about the medicinal benefits of the bone broth craze. However, if you are vegan, it can be tough to hop on the train. However, Brothee has created a potent and delicious vegan broth with wild restorative mushrooms such as Chaga, Shiitake, Morel and Porcini. Sip on the go to your next meeting or sit back, read a peaceful book and have it delivered directly to you. Available for delivery in Los Angeles.

9. Seaweed Bath Co. Unscented Body Wash

You know how we love our ethically sustainable companies. Vegan, cruelty and paraben-free in 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles, this versatile seaweed-based wash lathers the body in slippery smooth oils, leaving you feeling hydrated and nourished. It contains nutrient-rich and detoxifying seaweed extracts, such as bladderwrack and spirulina, and emollient oils such as neem, Hawaii Kukui, coconut and aloe vera. Don't worry, it's unscented, so you won’t smell like the ocean! 

10. Heart of Gold Rose the Beautiful Cream

As you browse this Portland based company’s site, you instantly begin to meditate on gratitude for the miraculous gifts that earth provides. Heart of Gold uniquely resonates with the beauty of color, specifically gold, as it embodies resilience and grace. Housed in high-quality glass, this buttery cream lightens and brightens the skin with superfoods and minerals such as rosewater, virgin prickly pear, squalane, sea buckthorn and calendula. With a proprietary anti-aging essential oil blend, you will combat inflammation with the elements of earth and air. 

Chef Mia Wasilevich : Transitional Gastronomy

Recently, we had the pleasure to sit down for coffee at Broome Street General Store with creative author and wild plant sage and forager Mia Wasilevich. Multitalented and vastly cultured, Mia’s inherently grounded personality with plants was a breath of fresh air. We spoke about her luminous journey, new book and resonating tips for everyone to augment their relationship with plants. Be sure to check out her wild foraging and cooking classes at Transitional Gastronomy, and be sure to pre-order her new innovative book, Ugly Little Greens, being released on May 16. Read more about Mia’s story and her partner Pascal Baudar’s classes at Urban Outdoor Skills.

Your new book Ugly Little Greens comes out soon. Can you please tell our readers what this book is about?

Over the last seven years, while teaching and cooking for students and clients, I have incorporated foraged edible plants, mainly invasive “weeds” into my cuisine. These are plants that you overlook in your yard or on trails and that most people try to force out of their garden. There’s nothing particularly new about foraging or gathering wild edible plants, but each time I taught a class or did a special dinner with these plants, I found that people were amazed that you could create something beautiful, elevated yet simple and fun with them. I started getting so many requests for my recipes and I knew it was time to do a book. For the most part, these recipes are simple, don’t use too many ingredients or intricate cooking techniques, and cooks of any skill level can execute them easily. My hope is that they’ll provide inspiration for you to take the recipe, make it your own and take the dishes to a whole other level.

What recipes are you most proud of from ULG?

I think the recipes I’m most proud of are the ones that are the simplest. I love tackling the ingredients that people would think are the most difficult to work with like dandelions, for example. They can be bitter and many people just end up chucking them into a smoothie. They are probably at the top of the “Ugly Little Greens” list but you can pair their bitterness and feature it in a way that’s harmonious. I love the Braised Dandelions with Figs and Wine. I also love the savory Lambsquarters Rice Pudding with its warm and comforting richness, the simplicity of the Abdoogh Khiar (kefir over ice) with Cattail and Rosehips, and the Nettle Canederli with Wild Mushrooms and Nettle Butter. 

What is the take away message you would want readers to receive from ULG?

That fancy and good are not necessarily the same thing. To taste the plant and let it tell you if it’s a gentle flavor that needs very little or a strong flavor that challenges you to play with it. Taste your food. Look at food in a new way and open the possibility of trying new things. I think many of us get into a rut of eating the same five vegetables over and over and we prepare or cook them the same five ways. That simplicity is beautiful. Honor your environment.

Where did your love for foraging begin? Were you trained as a chef or herbalist?

I am completely self-taught as far as cooking goes. I have always been interested in food as a creative medium and I grew up during the time that food TV and the idea of “the foodie” came into being. Although my career moved into entertainment/marketing, cooking for people was the thing I did during my off time and the thing I enjoyed the most. It’s the thing that made me happy. Once I surrendered to that idea (and it is like surrendering because I did have to give up a few luxuries and some of the security that a corporate job provides) it opened a whole world of opportunities and ways to create venues to do what I really wanted.

As far as foraging, I studied with various teachers in the Los Angeles area including my partner, Pascal Baudar. I really do think that with this kind of work, you need the one-on-one experience of being taught by an actual person to give you the confidence and solid background to know what you are doing. Getting to know the land this way is like an oral history that gets passed from person to person. Studying online and from books is an excellent supplement but you can’t replace that personal connection.

I honestly don’t consider foraging some separate thing or cool “new” thing to do. It’s just another way of sourcing food. It’s like an addition to a farmers market to me. And because I had traveled a lot as a kid, I was aware that other cultures utilize what grows around and with them and integrate these kinds of plants into their cuisine and culture. There’s less of a line between weeds and cultivated plants in other parts of the world.

How did you and Pascal begin your journey together?

In true 21st century fashion, we met online. Neither one of us was particularly looking for a partner at the time, but we were both intrigued at this online dating phenomena. It was both of our first experiences with online dating and we didn’t know what we were doing. Actually, Pascal didn’t meet my online criteria but it somehow matched us up anyhow, hahaha. We both decided that we didn’t care for the online dating experience and decided to connect on the phone instead. We found some extraordinary similarities, passions and approaches to life. And most importantly, of course, what we had in common was the love of food. On one of our first dates he took me out on a forage and we instinctively just made a little feast from our harvest and the rest is history.

Why settle in such a dry chaparral climate/ecosystem like Los Angeles?

I think I tend to look at the question in reverse. I didn’t necessarily choose this location. It’s where I ended up after college and where I chose to begin my early career. This is a really important question as it lays the groundwork for my overall philosophy. When you forage, you need to adapt your expectations and skillset to your immediate environment and be adaptable, flexible, and aware. It’s not a supermarket out there or a farm where there’s a certainty of finding the type of foods you want in a specific location. Your awareness of the environment and how it shifts to accommodate the climate and weather patterns and the fact that seeds and plants move around all contribute to the need to think on your feet, be extremely observant of everything around you and to be a little intuitive. So, in a roundabout way, I have become a part of this ecosystem because I live here. I have and will continue to adapt to it and be grateful for everything it provides.

How have you remained honest and down to earth while living around the superficial or perfunctory Los Angeles scene? 

Everything is a matter of perspective. You may not be able to change certain situations or surroundings, but you always have the choice of changing your perspective. I’m not focused on the “LA scene,” per se, but I am a part of it because I’m here. I think my focusing on the kind of people I do want to meet, engage with and the projects I want to work on funnel that reciprocal energy back to me. I’ve met so many wonderful and lifelong collaborators here. It’s just incredible to me how many amazingly creative people are here and how many forward thinkers and innovators there are. And because I’ve decided to follow my bliss and do what I love full time, I’m meeting people who are doing the same. It’s wonderful. I feel like my past life was another world.

How do your recipes creatively manifest? How do you create such unique dishes? Does the plant speak to you?

Yes! Sometimes the plant does speak to me in a way. When the first little shoots arrive in the spring they give off such a light and happy little vibe that you can’t help but create something light and joyous. I also think that because I was not classically trained, I don’t have the same restraints when approaching a recipe. It’s one big happy experiment to me. And the recipes are directly inspired by the plants. I can remember at one time only having acorns and cactus to harvest and I was creating a small bespoke event. You really have to pull out all your creativity to make something cohesive and beautiful with those ingredients. That’s what I love about doing this. It’s all on the fly according to what nature provides. So really, Mother Nature is my menu planner. 

You wear many hats as also a photographer, author, chef, wild forager and food stylist. Is there one aspect of your business you enjoy the most?

Hands down the creative process of conceptualizing and making a little “story,” if you will, about whatever project I am working on. I love recipe testing and development. I absolutely love creating menus but even more than that I love crafting a unique and memorable experience for people.

Five plants you feel most connected to

There is a very specific smell to the Los Angeles area but we have so many microclimates it’s hard to say! In the spring, in my area, it’s the combination of wild cucumber (not edible) and bur-chervil that create a heady perfume. In the drier and hotter months, the spiciness of the chaparral aromatics like the sagebrush and sages and further outside of Los Angeles, the creosote. In higher altitudes, the smell of pine and fir are so fresh and prominent, and no one can forget the delicate smell of elderflowers. So, that was a hard question to answer! If I must pin just five down, I guess they would be:

• Nettles
• Bur-chervil
• Black sage
• Elderflowers
• White fir

Five wild plants you recommend we add to our diet

Definitely nettles. Always the nettles. They can do no wrong as a cooked green, as a tea or dietary supplement.

Chickweed. My favorite delicate spring green. It’s such an important salad staple to me and can be used as a green and medicinally, as well. It’s also so abundant after it rains.

Dandelions. I love it when the entire plant is useable. The young flowers are edible (and used for making wine), as are the leaves and medicinally, the roots.

Cactus. It carries so many health benefits (pertaining to blood sugar levels and diabetes). Although a little difficult to harvest, it is easy to find even in a lot of California landscaping and a little goes a long way. Both the fruits and pads are edible. My favorite way to enjoy this is to blend the cactus pads with chia, lemon, agave and kiwi fruit and make a hydrating popsicle. Perfect for summer.

Elderberry. Besides being excellent flu and cold medicine, this plant is so versatile. The flowers and their pollen are a must for making cordial and the berries can be used fresh or dried. I like to use the dried berries in savory applications.

What has been your most unique adventure?

When Pascal and I first got together, we lived at the top of a slightly remote mountain, as in dirt roads and no street lights. We lived in a farm setting with many types of animals, bees, and critters. That was a pretty immersive introduction to nature for me. I have not worn a pair of heels since this time. We decided to use only manual powered cooking equipment or primitive equipment for a few months. All I can say is that it was both challenging and magical at the same time. Note: It’s extremely difficult to get stiff peaks with egg whites at a high altitude using a manual hand blender.

What is next for you? Any adventures planned?

We’re both moving more into teaching, writing and traveling and hopefully a combination of all of those things. We’re going to try and plan a trip to Oaxaca this year and experience another ecosystem and food journey. I’m also in the planning stages of opening my own place that will be a restaurant as well as teaching center – which is the dream.

How does your work speak to women about furthering their voice and innovative journey? 

This question goes hand in hand with the last question, BTW. It really is as simple as doing what you love. And if you are not sure what it is that you love, ask yourself what you tend to be doing when you truly have down time. What do you find yourself researching or searching for information and knowledge about the most? That will definitely give you a clue.

I can only speak for myself, but I spent a lot of time thinking about what I really wanted to do and would dream about it while going through the motions of my daily life. I can’t tell you how much energy that takes and I know why I was so tired all of the time. The hard part is, well, just doing it. Why? In my case, I had the running dialogue of “Am I good enough at what I do?” “What if I fail?” “What if people don’t get what I’m doing?”

I know I’m not unique with those thoughts. I think many people let those three questions stop them from achieving what they truly want. So, I decided to answer those questions as though I were from the future. “Yes, you are absolutely great at what you do.” “You’re not going to fail, you’re going to adapt.” “Who cares if people get what you are doing. If you are really inspired, you will be inspiring.”

Biggest tip you can give to people wanting to introduce nature into their lives

I don’t think you have to go camping to introduce nature into your life. Sometimes it can be as simple as eating dinner outside in your back yard away from your phone. Plant something…anything. A tiny little potted plant that you care for daily is a beautiful way to create a bond with nature, too. If you do go for a stroll, take a plant field guide out with you and identify and really get to know one plant really well. Repeat each time you take a walk or hike and soon you’ll have your own little mental library of plants.

Where do you choose to go decompress in nature?

We’re out in nature fairly often, to be honest, and I feel like the more often you are in nature, the less you have to decompress. The great thing about Los Angeles is that you’re not far from nature wherever you are. We have friends and clients in extraordinarily scenic and tranquil areas like Malibu and Topanga and friends with properties in the high desert, too, which is such a gorgeous landscape before it gets too hot. We were just in Palm Springs during the super bloom of desert flowers for a corporate retreat and it was breathtaking. So, I guess it’s a “hazard of the job,” that we get to spend so much time in beautiful settings already. We take road trips up the coast occasionally, but I happen to love the mountains and the cooler air that the higher altitudes have. Taking a drive through Angeles National Forest and stopping at a few of the camps for a mini-camping experience is always something I love to do. Nothing fancy, just spectacular views, an amazing picnic, and good company. That’s all you need.

Learn more about Chef Mia and get her book at transitionalgastronomy.com. 

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Molly Helfend, herbalist and environmental activist, graduated from University of Vermont in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies and a concentration in Holistic Health. She will be attending University of Kent in Canterbury, England to receive her Masters Degree in Ethnobotany in 2017. She has worked for Urban Moonshine, Greenpeace and received her training with Spoonful Herbals. Her goal is to receive her PHD and become a professor at University of California Santa Cruz. Molly resides in Monte Nido, California.  

Top 10 Products We Love for April

 

1. Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum

This 100% active oil boasts some of the highest quality raw ingredients, including nutrient dense essential oils, to restore vitality and balance to the skin. Vintner’s Daughter founder draws from her fine winemaking experience to create super-powered formulas that leave the skin flawless, without looking oily or greasy. The smooth and glossy primer is the perfect finishing touch to add to anyone’s post makeup or nighttime skincare regime. If that doesn't leave you intrigued, keep in mind that this altruistic company shares 2% of every purchase with charities dedicated to protecting, educating and empowering woman and children around the world.

2. Virgin Raw Foods Bee Panacea

A western alternative to chyawanprash, Bee Panacea combines superfoods like spirulina, chlorella and maca with herbs like shilajit and reishi and complex honey flavors like raw honey, bee pollen, royal jelly and propolis. Together, this formula creates a sweet blend of salubrious goodness that tastes delicious in almost any smoothie, drink or scooped right out of the jar. Side effects include increased antioxidant intake and equilibrium throughout the body! 

3. Brown Bear Herbs Classic Sexy Smokes Herbal Cigarettes

Only in Portland could someone find a sui generis company like Brown Bear Herbs. Introducing an actually high-spirited, healing and frankly sexy way to ingest herbs - by smoking them! With organic and wildcrafted herbs such as Damiana, Blackberry Leaf, Rose, Hibiscus and Mullein, Sexy Smokes foster a slight head buzz with a feeling of herbaceous grounding that makes smoking appropriately cool. Great for users who are looking to heal respiratory infections or smokers trying to quit tobacco. 

4. PHI Kind Matcha Ginger Truffles

Who couldn’t love PHI Kind’s heavenly sugar free raw chocolate delights? Feel free to splurge on these nutritious treats because PHI Kind makes it possible to enjoy chocolate without any guilt. With the premium matcha powder, MCT oil, and hints of ginger, these idiosyncratic flavors blend together to create sophisticated and beautifully shaped truffles that are almost too good to be true. Perceptively encased with completely fair trade 70% coconut mylk chocolate, make sure to grab these off the shelf before they sell out.

5. Goldthread Replenish

From one of our new favorite companies, Goldthread Herbal Tonics combine the restorative power of plants with succulent flavor to create appetizing medicinal elixirs. Based around the Taoist philosophy of Qi, Replenish is stock full of viridescent, nutrient dense herbs that are the perfect cooling beverage to introduce to your body as warmer weather begins to blossom. Steadily refresh your depleted minerals with a combination of sweet and earthy tones. Their message of sustainable interconnectedness amongst cultures and the natural environment make us ponder about our ecological footprint with every sip. 

6. BURN Habanero Hot Sauce

Burn, baby, burn! This Santa Cruz based company makes some the best darn hot sauce we have ever tried. Fermented with probiotics and organic farm to table ingredients, you can choose your heat spectrum preference to match your taste buds from mild Cayenne to hot Habanero. Our House of Citrine team likes to drizzle the extra hot Habanero hot sauce in our Siete Cassava and Chia Tortilla creations!  

7. Coco Kind Organic Full Brow Balm

Are you one of the victims of the over-plucking eyebrow fad from the late 90s/early 2000s? Well, we have found the perfect remedy to quell that dilemma. Coco Kind’s organic brow balm will stimulate growth in hair follicles, while also creating thicker, darker and healthier brows! With only five superfood ingredients, this balm provides full touch, great coverage with an interesting twist of natural tint from raw cacao powder. 

8. Foods Alive Rockin’ Reishi Crackers

A staple in our diet, these special high fiber flaxseed crackers combine seeds, nuts, Bragg’s Aminos and freeze-dried reishi to create the ultimate plant-based snack. This family owned company only use the cleanest, highest quality ingredients, making it impossible for us to not finish an entire bag on the spot. These are perfect to add to your picnic baskets with hummus and guacamole for spring and summer. 

9. Wildcare Palo Santo Hydrosol

So beautifully elegant, this delicate hydrosol clears negative energy and purifies our intentional spaces. Made with fresh spring water and ethically sourced Palo Santo, we love misting this hydrosol for a refreshing and liberating pH boost. Be prepared to balance your aura and heighten heart-opening zest in your chakras. 

10. Moon Deli Mushroom Adaptogen

This blend of wildcrafted herbs work symbiotically to cherish your adrenal and immune systems for the optimum kickstart in your daily smoothie. With raw cacao, Himalayan pink salt, chaga and cordyceps mushroom, we love the simplicity of using a multifaceted combination blend for the best results. Energy, vitality and nourishment are all wrapped up in Moon Deli’s sustainable glass jar. 

Nootropics: A Class of Botanicals Utilized For Mental Clarity, Focus + Ascendance

By: Dr. Christine Surrago

We are in the midst of transferring from biospheric consciousness to nooospheric consciousness. The demands on our mind to quickly update and adapt while remaining focused is increasing.  Mindfulness is spreading like wildfire throughout our culture.  There is a yoga studio on every corner of Santa Monica.  Our collective energy is no longer focused on physical necessities and the building of a society.  Our foundation has been made for our next step of evolution, which is the work of living a mindful life in harmony with others in every single moment. 

It has never been easier to get on the ride of awareness.  For those of us who are pioneers leading the way, it has never been more challenging as it requires deeper awarenesses and connections with the self, the collective and the universe at large while also responding timely to the waves of energy that are coming in.  

Nootropics are a sacred class of botanicals used to enhance the overall connection, conduction and synergy of the brain, body and its surrounding environment.  These botanicals enhance neural connections to operate at higher conduction speeds with flexibility and adaptability, leading to higher levels of awareness, dexterity, focus and cognitive function. With this heightened ability you have a unique opportunity for self improvement, learning and team play with everyone around you. 

My highest intention is for you to be constantly finding your balance and alignment with yourself and the whole.  This is a reminder to focus on progress while in balance.  These should not be used as a means to “get ahead” leading to instability and imbalance in all areas of your life.

Many nootropics improve cognitive functioning, memory, decrease inflammation and improve the speed and flow of neural connections. They can prevent and alleviate decline in Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, dementia and epilepsy. They often lead to lower inflammation throughout the body while reducing harmful stress hormones.  

Below I have listed my top 3 nootropics.  Each plant can be used as your medicine, in combination with other tonics, for strong enhancements in cognitive function and stress reduction. Utilize this information with care, integrity and intention. 

Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi)

Bacopa is also referred to as “Brahmi” which is in reference to the Hindu creator god Brahma which gives you an idea of your potential when taking this medicine. This plant has powerful energetics invoking intelligence, grounding and creativity.  It can connect you to the flowing streams of intelligence + creativity that are already inside of you. This botanical has been studied in cognitive decline, dementia, epilepsy with positive results. 

Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola)

Gotu Kola, also known as another “Brahmi” is a potent nootropic and nervine, calming the nervous system while enhancing focus.  It has other incredible properties as a blood and skin tonic.  It is used to treat numerous conditions like depression, brain fog, anxiety, venous insufficiency, hemorrhoids, eczema and rashes. 

Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha)

In Sanskrit, ashwagandha means “the smell of a horse.” A better translation would be “the essence of a stallion."  Ashwagandha creates a sense of focused, relaxed and rooted strength. There are countless effects that Ashwagandha has on the body and more are being discovered. It is known as a thyroid, adrenal, liver, brain, heart and blood vessel tonic. This plant is a member of the nightshade family and caution should be taken for those who react to nightshades.

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Dr. Christine Surrago, Naturopathic Doctor, is committed to the healing of the entire planet, each person at a time. She holds a strong intention for everyone to live a life of alignment with themselves and the rhythms of our earth.  She sees that each person has a unique gift, that when nourished and strengthened, will contribute to the healing of the entire planet as we know it. From the depths of her connection to human experience and her love of life, she will be sharing with you vital knowledge for your own personal healing, alignment and vibrant aliveness. 

As a doctor, she focuses her treatments to heal the subconscious of the body, at the very source of illness. This leads to radical healing from the inside out. She is in a constant state of awe as she observes the miracles of the human body.  Through honoring the intelligence of life, she treats her patients with steady guidance and discernment.

Dr. Christine practices in Santa Monica, CA and is currently taking patients of all ages and conditions. She specializes in bioenergetic healing, women’s health, fertility, autoimmune conditions and alternative cancer therapies. She thoughtfully blends ancient earth medicines with the most cutting-edge treatments out there.

She completed her medical training at Bastyr University in Seattle, WA.  She served as an adjunct clinical professor at Bastyr University Clinic in San Diego, CA teaching the holistic treatment of patients with constitutional homeopathy.

Sacred Self Care - Nourishing The Spirit During The Holidays

The holidays are a time to come together with those we love and celebrate community and family. For many, however, the holidays can serve as a trigger for those we have lost, what we feel we lack, not to mention a flurry of obligations that bring more stress than pleasure. Now more than ever it is crucial for us to invest in sacred-selfishness; to embrace self care that nourishes our spirit and elevates our overall experience. Let’s explore what you can do to invite stress-free, soulfulness to your holiday season that heals as much as it nurtures.

Embrace what feels good

This time of year can leave us with a high paced energy that is pushing us beyond our limits. There is so much to do on top of our normal, day to day activities that we can feel depleted and exhausted of our vitality. I encourage each of us to check in with how we are feeling. Are we spending too much time doing things that drain us or leave us feeling poorly and not enough time doing those things that replenish our energy and revitalize us? This is a time when we must be willing to ask ourselves what would feel good for us. Invite in all the senses. Perhaps we need a hot bath with some lavender and rosemary essential oils. We could spend extra time to sit in meditation and simply appreciate stillness. Perhaps this month we increase the time we spend at the gym or in the yoga studio so that we can provide our bodies an additional outlet for the stress. Allow yourself to find several ways to engage your senses in such a way that it feels nourishing and releasing. 

Give yourself permission

When we begin to spend extra time on ourselves, especially in a holiday so consumed with buying and doing for others (which can feel good for some of us, too!), there is a tendency for guilt consciousness to rise to the surface. Know that we when take time to replenish our energy, to cultivate centeredness for ourselves we can show up in a richer, deeper way for those around us. Boundaries that safely allow us to tend to our own needs are an essential part of our self care. Should guilt arise take a moment to honor this quality within you and lovingly release guilt affirming that there is no greater spiritual act than to show up for ourselves in a powerful and meaningful way.

Learn to say no

Along with embracing what feels good and giving ourselves permission to take care of ourselves we must also get comfortable saying no. For many of us this is a difficult task-a trigger all on its own, but it’s equally a powerful boundary that protects our energetic, emotional and even physical well-being. If you know that a certain family member that you have a deep wound with is attending a family function, assess whether you are honoring yourself by saying yes to something which may prove very difficult for you and for those around you. If you are feeling drained after a long week of work and cannot fathom attending the work holiday party it's ok to say no. Part of our reluctance to saying no is a fear of letting others down but when we say yes even when we want to say no we let ourselves down. Honor how you feel and if you are not feeling it, say no. 

Be of service

For many who live away from family or simply chose to not attend family functions there can be a void when you see commercials and hear co-workers and friends regaling tales of their holiday traditions. A great way to nourish our spirit and to fill a void left when we lack the support we desire during the holidays is to spend time being of service to our communities. Get in touch with local women’s shelters, retirement centers or animal shelters. Sometimes one of the most enriching and soul-lifting experiences can come when we see another shining bright simply by our presence. 

While there may be many things about this holiday season we cannot change, or avoid we always control how we react and what we hand our power over to. Hold your power close this season and know that there are many ways to tend to our spirit and find peace during the holiday season. The more that we honor ourselves, chose to act with authenticity, and tend to our internal well the more we can stay above the stress of the season. We can heal and release wounds that have often sullied this holiday for us and we can make new memories and traditions of our own choosing that lift ourselves, and those around us to new heights. 

Have a wonderful holiday season, no matter how you chose to spend it. I wish you many blessings as we enter a most bountiful 2017

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Laura Brown is a Seeress, Intuitive Coach and Medicine Woman. She is the Goddess and Creatrix at Intuitive Alchemy,  a sacred sanctuary for Intuitive Readings & Coaching, Spiritual Development as well as online Apothecary. Ever a sacred Alchemist, Laura blends her skills as a Channeler, Clairvoyant, Reiki Healer, Tarotist and Metaphysician to create sacred offerings for soul seekers. You can stay up to date on her Facebook page and follow her on Instagram for free daily readings.

10 Ways You Can Take Control Over You Skin Right Now in Preparation for the Holidays

As you know by now HOC is not shy when it comes to sharing the best of the best in vibrant health and that is why we took no shortcuts when we journeyed to visit Stephanie Lauren Brown in the city that never sleeps for tips on how to take care of our skin when we don’t get enough! Stephanie knows how to substantially improve skin with more than fourteen years of studies in conjunction with Ayurveda, and coupled with her magic touch. She can tell just from looking at you what lifestyle your body is living and give you suggestions that give results! 

Stephanie, if only all facials could be as sweet as yours. When we think of your approach to skin, the first word that comes to mind is effective. Experiencing your customized holistic facial in NYC further encouraged us to care for our skin from the inside out. 

What are ten ways you can take control over you skin right now in preparation for the holidays?

1. Start with hydration. We all know that drinking water is important, but when the temperature gets low, a key move you can make to keep yourself hydrated is forgoing ice altogether and instead, sip on hot water throughout the day. Throw a slice of lemon or orange in there for a little extra flavor if drinking hot water doesn't sound appealing. Hot water encourages your digestive system to relax and keeps all of your channels open to hydrate more deeply.

2. Exfoliate! The face and the body are probably ready for a more intense exfoliation after all of the time spent outdoors in the summer. For the body, I like to mix up a little organic sugar with sesame oil to make a scrub, and then take it into the shower with me. And depending on how intense the weather is where you live, exfoliate your face with caution. If you do too much, you'll end up causing more harm than good. This is a good time of year to begin a nighttime retinol treatment, which can exfoliate gently and help improve just about every skin concern imaginable - fine lines, sun spots, breakouts, etc. I adore Marie Veronique's gentle and natural versions. 

3. Up your internal omega intake with foods like salmon, sardines, anchovies, nuts, and seeds. These foods are important for just about all of the body's organs and functions, but your skin, in particular, will thank you. 

4. Massage your face. We really should be taking the time each day to do this, as the immediate and long term benefits are so great. Massage not only assists our skin in working more effectively, but improves the actual health of the skin by boosting circulation and oxygenation of the muscles. We hold a lot of tension in our facial muscles, especially around the jaw and in the forehead, so consciously relaxing these muscles relieves stress there and can prevent fine lines from forming. This is why I typically spend nearly an hour or more massaging the faces of my clients! Over time, the muscles lift, TMJ pain disappears, and the skin congests less. It's probably the single most important thing you can do for your skin, period. 

5. At night, the skin can absorb and assimilate nutrients more effectively than during the daytime, so it's imperative to take the time with your evening  skincare routine. Make sure you're effectively removing your makeup, then cleansing, followed by toning and then massaging in your serums. Layer on a heathy dose of a balm or moisturizer and wake up to happier skin, every morning. 

6. If you live in a dry climate, consider a humidifier next to your bed while you sleep to increase the amount of water in the air, and therefore, in your skin. 

7. There are a lot of health trends that come and go, but one that I can really get behind is the bone broth craze. There are so many good minerals, vitamins, and nutrients in there that we can't get from any other source in nature- I really try to encourage everyone to get on board with this. Some of my vegan clients have reluctantly tried this and have seen major improvements with a lot of different symptoms- from indigestion and leaky gut to joint pain and arthritis. Can't recommend it enough!

8. Sleep is so essential and it's always staggering to see the research on how many of us aren't sleeping well consistently. More than anything, it helps to regulate our body's hormones and basically affects every angle of our overall well-being, including the skin's health. If you're not sleeping well, make it your highest priority. 

9. By now we are all aware of how much stress can age us prematurely, so at this point it's just a matter of finding little ways to alleviate stress as we experience it on a daily basis. This is why having a few breathing practices are so helpful - we can do them anywhere and at any time. Breathing is generally at the heart of many meditation techniques and discovering at least one that works for you is key to keeping hormones balanced and the skin radiant. 

10. Get a facial! At a minimum, I recommend getting at least one facial with each seasonal change annually. This is especially important if you live somewhere with dramatic seasonal changes so that you can get a professional's stamp of approval on seasonally-appropriate products for home use, which can be different for everyone. Find an Esthetician who aligns with your values and uses products that you are interested in using so that they can be an effective part of your team.

Article by: Karli Quinn

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Stephanie Lauren Brown is a passionate Holistic Skin Therapist whose work focuses on nurturing the skin from the inside out.

After personally battling cystic acne for ten years, Stephanie understands how frustrating and self-deprecating troubled skin can be. Years of internal antibiotic use combined with harsh, chemically-laden prescription creams and aggressive facial procedures made her wonder why no one or nothing had seemed to make a substantial improvement in her skin. It was then she decided to explore what might be causing this chronic condition, and began a deep, lifelong study of the body and its processes.

Over fifteen years of studies have refined Stephanie's abilities to assist clients who are suffering from troubled skin utilizing natural ingredients and practiced techniques. She has been a working Certified Massage Therapist since 2002, and is a Certified Ayurvedic Health Educator through the California College of Ayurveda and the Ayurvedic Institute since 2006. Stephanie is also an Aveda-trained holistic Esthetician and has completed multiple advanced body and skin therapy trainings throughout her career in a variety of healing modalities including Marma point therapy, Pancha Karma and traditional Ayurvedic body therapies, Acupressure, Reflexology, manual lymph drainage, Myofascial release, and Reiki. She holds Aesthetic Licenses in both New York and California. Stephanie combines the most effective techniques in her treatments in addition to thoughtful lifestyle coaching to assist each client on their path to vibrant health.

The Perfect Workout for your Body Type (Dosha)

We all know exercise is good for our bodies, minds, and souls, but did you know the type of exercise that’s best for you actually depends on your mind-body type?

According to Ayurveda, the world’s oldest health system, there are three mind-body types: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. As an Ayurvedic Nutritionist and author of the upcoming book The Idiot’s Guide to Ayurveda, I focus on bringing this ancient healing system into our modern lives. While the Vedas didn’t write about whether CrossFit or Pure Barre is better for your physique, they had some pretty incredible insights into our physiology that we can truly benefit from today.

In this article, I’m going to give you pointers on the best type of exercise according to your unique mind-body type. If you don’t know your mind-body type, take my quiz  which will help you assess it.

Once you know, here are the best workouts for you:

Those with Vata bodies:

Vatas are energizer bunnies who love to move. They are most similar to the Ectomorph body type in Sports Nutrition. They love the feeling of a good cardio session. You can find them in Soul Cycle spinning up a storm, doing high kicks in kickboxing, shaking their booties in Zumba, or going HAM on the elliptical machine. They have a need for speed and love the types of workouts where you lose your breath, and yourself while doing them. They love the feeling of getting their heart rates up, which makes them feel free - something very important for Vatas.

However, all that movement is not recommended for Vatas. Ayurveda is all about seeking balance. Therefore you should counter-balance your natural energy with that which you lack. 

Because Vatas are drawn to quick, sweaty cardio sessions, it’s best to counter-balance that quickness with some slow, steady strength training. 

Vatas have a hard time gaining muscle mass and need to pay particular attention to building their bones and muscles to prevent bone-density issues in the future. I recommend scheduling two to three strength-training sessions in the week where you really isolate your individual muscles, without the cardio component of quickly trying to lift as fast as possible. Think slow, steady, and thorough. Proper form is more important than speed.

Balance is also very important to practice for Vatas, as they naturally can have a weak balance due to skeletal irregularities in their physiology. Try doing one-leg deadlifts, bicep curls on one leg, and walking lunging to improve your balance and agility.

Make sure you take your rest days. Vatas are naturally on the thin side and have a hard time preserving body fat so you want to make sure you don’t overdo it and give your muscles a chance to rest between sweat sessions.

Those with Pitta bodies:

Pittas are natural athletes. They are most similar to the Mesomorph body type in Sports Nutrition. They have a strong stamina and love to work their muscles to the max. They are drawn to boot camps, boxing, CrossFit, and anything else that pushes their body's limits. They put muscle on easily and love the results they get. Needless to say, they love to feel the burn.

However, all that intense exercise is not really the best thing for these already fiery Pittas. They must counter-balance their naturally competitive energy with some non-competitive, relaxing workouts. Don’t kill me, I know you want your boot camp in, but I swear that grounding down will really help.

Pilates is a great exercise for Pittas because it works their muscles, but at the same time is therapeutic and relaxing. I also recommend yin yoga, which is the practice of holding one stretch for two to three minutes without moving. If you do boot camps, be sure to meditate and ground down afterward so you don’t stay in that fight-or-flight mode for the rest of the day.

It’s super important for Pittas to avoid getting overheated. Pittas are hot by nature, so a humid room can really throw them off balance. Avoid working out in hot weather, such as in the middle of the day or outside in the summer. Steer clear of heated yoga practices, which will throw your Pitta energy way out of wack. Instead, focus on cooling down. 

Swimming is an excellent practice for Pittas because it allows you to move, strengthen and stretch your body while cooling down. Hit up your friend that has a pool to do some laps or take a run on the beach.

It’s also crucial for you to take your rest days. Pittas like to be on the go and often forget to schedule downtime in their busy agendas. Remember, your muscles cannot develop if you are always working them. Try to take two off-days during the week to just stretch your body out. Foam rolling is a really great way to knead out deep knots, which Pittas often have. And practice Abhyanga, self-massage with cooling coconut oil. I explain all about how to practice Abhyanga on my site.

Those with Kapha bodies:

Kaphas are naturally slow and steady and may actually hate to workout. Getting up to go to the gym may feel like physical torture for them. Does this sound like you?

Kaphas are most similar to the Endomorph body type in Sports Nutrition. They are more sedentary by nature and have a tough time getting into an exercise routine. However, once they start getting their sweat sessions in, they actually begin to love it because it stimulates their minds and bodies, counter-balancing their heavy energy. Kaphas actually have the highest endurance of all the Doshas and can tolerate the longest duration of exercise, so don’t be afraid to work it.

Kaphas medicine is sweat. In Ayurveda, sweat is fat's antidote. Therefore, by sweating every day you are inhibiting your body's fat storage. Kaphas naturally store fat more easily than the other Doshas, so sweat is really medicine for them. I always like to tell myself in a tough workout, “Sweat is fat crying.” You can try that little mantra for motivation the next time you find yourself on a treadmill.

Kaphas should avoid excess strength-training if they are trying to lose weight because it will actually make them heavier. Kaphas may be drawn to slow, steady weight-lifting and shy away from cardio but it’s really the opposite they need.

Kaphas should do HIIT (high-intensity interval training) classes where they are doing things like jump squats, jumping jacks, mountain climbers, and burpees throughout the class, with quick weight lifting in between. This is really going to speed up your metabolism and help trigger your body’s fat-burning potential. If your heart-rate isn’t increased you won’t be burning enough calories to target your fat cells. Check out your local gym for classes. Tabata, Plyometrics, Spinning, and Ropes & Rower classes are all great options and gyms often have their own variations of classes. If that sounds too intimidating for you start off with a type of cardio class you enjoy like Zumba or a barre class.

Even if you don’t have a gym membership there are so many workouts you can do at home. Try going for a run, jump roping or practicing lunges, squats, push-ups, and planks at home. That’s really all you need to get your body going. Don’t underestimate the power of walking. Walking 20 minutes a day can make significant differences in your weight over time. Do something that you enjoy and don’t be afraid of a challenge.

Exercise is one of the most medicinal things we can do. Physical stimulation creates mental stimulation. A stagnant body is a stagnant mind. By opening the channels of our bodies we open the channels of our minds. If people exercised more often most diseases and depression would cease to exist.

Which type of exercise is your favorite? What’s your Dosha? Let me know in the comments! And if you don’t know your mind-body type, take my quiz on my website eatfeelfresh.com.

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Sahara Rose is an Ayurvedic Practitioner, Sports Nutritionist and Holistic Health Coach, as well as upcoming author of The Idiot’s Guide to Ayurveda. She is passionate about bridging Eastern and Western health philosophies and leads a 12 Week Program on incorporating both into our everyday, busy lives. Learn more about Ayurvedic wisdom on her website eatfeelfresh.com and follow her on Instagram @EatFeelFresh.

5 Tips from Dr. Aunna for a Better 2016

The tradition of New Year’s resolutions dates back as early as the Babylonian times. While the success rate of ancient resolutions is largely unknown, a large percentage of the resolutions of modern times tend to be unsuccessful. Taking on too many resolutions or setting unrealistic goals are common reasons why people do not achieve their goals.

“As a doctor, I have observed a lack of self-appreciation to be the most common reason people are unsuccessful in achieving any goal at any time of the year.”

The good news is, there are many ways to improve our lives and succeed with our New Year’s resolutions. Through my own experiences and those with patients, I have identified a few factors for successfully following through with our goals.

1. Cultivate self-appreciation

Most New Year's resolutions involve self-improvement. So why is it that we have difficulty following through with things that benefit our lives? As a doctor, I have observed a lack of self-appreciation to be the most common reason people are unsuccessful in achieving any goal at any time of the year. It’s impossible to prioritize ourselves without a foundation of self-worth. This lack of self-love is often subconscious and can sabotage our lives without us knowing it. Try to get in touch with a place deep within you in which you can feel total love for yourself. This is the place where you will find the limitless drive to improve your life.

2. Make a daily self-commitment

While it’s always exciting to start off the New Year with new goals, it’s just as easy to talk without follow-through. Whenever one of my patients tells me, “I’m waiting until after the holidays to <insert goal here>,” I always respond , “Why wait to do something that benefits your life?” Procrastination is another form of self-sabotage, and, in turn, a sign of not appreciating ourselves. We all deserve to prioritize ourselves everyday, and not just at the beginning of the year.

3. Identify your intentions

What are the reasons for your goals? Do you want to quit smoking because someone else wants you to? Are you trying to lose weight to impress someone else? Goals that involve changing for someone else never last. You may not elicit the response you had hoped from the other party, but most importantly you have neglected the most important person: you. It all goes back to self-appreciation. Set goals that involve your heartfelt decision, not someone else’s, and you will find that you will not only feel much happier but also be more successful in your endeavors.

“Life is not a list of check boxes.”

4. Intention vs. Resolutions

The word “resolution” has somewhat of a strict connotation, and often implies that there is something that needs to be fixed within a set time frame. This is why I like to set intentions. I write a list of things I intend to accomplish. I prioritize my list and try my best to achieve my goals.  I’m not trying to fix anything, because in reality, I’m not broken. I’m an imperfectly perfect human who won’t be able to accomplish everything I set out to exactly when I want to, but in time I will in wonderful ways I had never imagined.

5. Enjoy the process

Life is not a list of check boxes. It’s easy to think ahead to the results without enjoying the present moment. How often have you reached your goal and either hurt yourself in the process or felt like what you achieved wasn’t good enough? Delayed gratification allows us to relish the process, which may lead us on a different but more fulfilling path. Life isn’t about how skinny, rich, or accomplished you are. It’s the journey that occurs in each moment that is most important.

You are the most important person of your life and the positive life changes you make benefit everyone around you. The time to start your All Year's Intentions is now.

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Aunna Pourang, MD is a board-certified family physician who practices integrative medicine in Santa Monica, CA. She incorporates her knowledge of yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, and nutrition with conventional Western medicine to address the root causes of symptoms and to help heal the mind, body, and spirit. Dr. Pourang is also the author of Meditate don’t Medicate: A 14 Day Journey of Letting Go and Finding Yourself and blogs about health and happiness on her website www.draunna.com. 

Lotus East-West Medical Center
2222 Santa Monica Blvd, Ste 105
Santa Monica, CA 90404
T: (310) 828-8258

Summer Essentials

Happy Summer!  The longest day has come and passed.  The vegetation beckons to be noticed and wind takes great pleasure in playing with our hair.  Here are our essential accompaniments to our favorite time...now. 

ALOE VERA

Applying fresh aloe vera gel topically after a sunburn, or any burn, will begin to soothe and heal the skin.  Aloe is the ultimate skin tonic, but it's also a great food!  Its long-chain polysaccharides create a demulcent quality that soothes the digestive system.  Having this in the house is a priceless addition! 

CLARY SAGE TONER

Simple, uplifting and perfect.  Only organic or wild-crafted botanical ingredients comprise Benshen's lineup of skin alchemy.  On top of that, each of Benshen's products are crafted with a healing mantra.  This scent is akin to heaven's dew drops and applying it makes you feel like an invincible fairy. 

Photo by Sun Potion.

ASHWAGANDA

Emotional balancing, immune boosting, energy inspiring....all gifts of the incredible Ashwaganda.  Sun Potion sources from small organic farms in Northern India where the roots are cold-water extracted.  This adaptogen is the necessary addition to put you in the chilled-out-hall-of-fame. 

Photo by Living Libations.

Sea Buckthorn Best Skin Ever

Living Libations pushes the threshold of just how good life can get.  With Sea Buckthorn Best Skin Ever, their bestseller, the most intoxicating aroma and the pinnacle of nourishing oils dance in alchemical harmonium.  This all-in-one product is the foundation for glorious skin.

Photo by Castle Rock Water.

Castle Rock Water

From glacier to glass, Castle Rock Water is our trusted, go-to water.  Castle Rock is bottled in glass from the sacred springs of Mount Shasta.  It's so important, especially in our current water state, to seek out and support pristine, conscious water companies.  Castle Rock also gives back some of its profits to local communities. 

Photo by Strange Invisible Perfumes.

The Rose With The Broken Neck

11 year aged Sri Lankan organic nutmeg, oak-aged French Cognac, Peruvian Palo Santo, and first distillation Rose make up Strange Invisible's "The Rose With The Broken Neck".  Do we need to say another word?

Photo by Nordur Salt.

Nordur Salt

Nordur Salt is produced by combining two forces of nature; geothermal energy and the Arctic Ocean.  In the morning, we love adding Nordur Salt to our water.  This reduces adrenal stress, maintains electrolyte balance, and provides trace minerals to kick-start your system!