Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals You Don't Want to Miss!

Hey guys! I hope you all have an amazing and yum-tastic Thanksgiving today! I don't know about you, but I can't wait to dig in to all the delish foods that only make an appearance this time of year - like my mother-in-law's homemade bread stuffing (with apple and onion..sooo good!), mashed potatoes and the pecan pie my hubs and I are bringing (it's not Thanksgiving in my opinion without pecan pie!!)! Tomorrow I can go back to eating healthy, but today..it's a free for all! lol

Anyhoo...besides wishing you all a happy turkey day, I also wanted to give you the deets on a few Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sales that will be starting tomorrow (and a few already happening), so without further ado...get your shopping on! :-)

1) Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques 

ALL BLACK FRIDAY WEEKEND:

Buy a Gift Card, Get a Gift Card!

$25 will receive a FREE $5 Gift Card  

$50 will receive a FREE $10 Gift Card

$75 will receive a FREE $15 Gift Card

$100 will receive a FREE $20 Gift Card

   

Friday - Sunday:

 Get a FREE Gift with every purchase of . . .

• Creme Foundations = FREE Pure Complexion Blending Sponge
• Powder Foundations = Free Large Kabouki Brush
• Pressed Foundations = Free Large Kabouki Brush
• Creme Concealer & Corrective Concealer = FREE Oval Eye/Concealer Brush
• Finishing Powder = Large Powder Brush
• Pressed & Powder Cheek Colours = FREE Cheek Brush
• Bronzers = FREE Fan Brush
• Pressed & Powder Eye Duos/Trios = FREE Oval Eye/Concealer Brush
• Creme Eyeshdows = FREE Oval Eye/Concealer Brush
• Powder Eyeliner & Brow Colours = FREE Eyeliner Brush
• Lip Colour, Lip Gloss or Lip Glaze = FREE Lip Brush
• Eyeliner & Lip Liner Pencil = FREE Eco-friendly Pencil Sharpener

Cyber Monday, November 30: 

ALL full-sized products 

on our Website 30% OFF!!!

2) The Choosy Chick

Black Friday thru Cyber Monday:

• 15% off everything in the boutique and Free shipping on US orders over $40. Use code THANKS15 at checkout. (International shipping is offered and Canadians can receive Free Shipping on orders over $150).

3) The Detox Market

11/25 - 11/27: Black Friday Sale:

• $10 off $100 | code: GIVE10
  $30 off $200 | code: GIVE30
  $100 off $400 | code: GIVE100
  - Our Biggest Sale Ever! 
  - Free Shipping
  11/28 - 11/29: Extended Black Friday Sale

11/30: Cyber Monday Sale 

• $10 off $100 | code: GIVE10 
• $30 off $200 | code: GIVE30 
• $100 off $400 | code: GIVE100 
• - Secret Cyber Monday Only Sale collection 
• - URL goes live on Monday oy: http://www.thedetoxmarket.com/collections/cyber-monday-deals 
• - Up to 60% off your favorite brands!  
• - Sale on Sale 

4) Citrine Natural Skincare

Black Friday & Small Business Saturday:

• 10% off $100+ | code: Thanks10
• 15% off $250+ | code: Thanks15
• 20% off $500+ | code: Thanks20

Sales are valid in-store and online! 

Other Black Friday/Cyber Monday Deals worth checking out...

EcoHabitude.com  - up to 50% off on select brands

Elaaskincare.com - Get 10% off storewide with coupon code HOLIDAYWONDER (good until 11/30 so hurry!)

Do you guys know of any great Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sales going on? Do you prefer shopping in stores or online? Let me know in the comments! 

Peace, Love & Happy Thanksgiving (and shopping!),
Sabrina xoxo

*post contains some affiliate links

Crazy For Cranberry This Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving is tomorrow and today I am feeling all things Cranberry! Here are a few things that have me going crazy for this little tart, red berry!

First up, some more gems from Lemongrass Spa .... 

Bath, body & home:

PR Samples 

1) Frosted Cranberry Hand & Body Soap - Tangy Cranberry mixes with sweet Plum for the most delish scent combo! Handmade with moisturizing oils, like Coconut and Apricot to keep your skin super soft, this soap is my fave for this season!

Price - $6 (on sale)
Ingredients - Purified Water, Palm Oil, Coconut Oil, Apricot Oil, Jojoba Oil, Merlot Mica Color (for sparkle), Phthalate-Free Fragrance

2) Frosted Cranberry Room Spray - Made with the same fruity scent as the soap (and body lotion below), this room spray will make every room in your house smell like Thanksgiving - without the nasty toxins conventional room sprays contain! You can even use this on your sheets/pillow if you'd like too!

Price - $9 (sale)
Ingredients - Purified Water, Phthalate-Free Fragrance Oil

3) Frosted Cranberry Hand & Body Lotion - Keeping with that tangy and sweet scented theme is this travel size hand and body lotion - perfect for on the go to keep your hands soft, smooth and hydrated!

Price - $17 (price is for 8oz & 2oz duo)
*Ingredients - Distilled Water, Aloe Vera Juice, Vegetable Emulsifier, Sweet Almond Oil, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, Grapeseed Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, Fractionated Coconut Oil, Jojoba Oil, Primrose Oil, Shea Butter, Vitamin E Oil, Phthalate-free Fragrance Oil, Orange Essential oil, hydroxypropyl starch phosphate, Optiphen (preservative).

*You can read more on Lemongrass Spa's ingredients here.

Cranberry-esque colored make-up:

PR Samples - Cocoa Berry Lipstick, Merlot Blush, Cool Blush Lipliner. Review & make-up look to come soon! 

How gorgeous are these colors from Lemongrass Spa? These 3 products are perfect for creating a bold & glam "Cranberry inspired" holiday look and can be mixed, darkened, or lightened (add a dab of highlighter or a pale gloss) to achieve the hue that best suits your skin tone or preference! 
(Check out my other post on Lemongrass Spa here!)


Other Cranberry obsessions at the moment....

Cranberry Kombucha! 

This recipe for Cranberry Sauce!

Also, check out this Pinterest page for even more Cranberry inspo!

What are your thoughts on Cranberries? Do you love or hate them? Sound off below!


Have a Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Peace & Love,
Sabrina xoxo

Some New Faves From Lemongrass Spa, Neal's Yard Remedies & Indie Lee!

*PR Samples

I never get tired of discovering or being introduced to new green beauty brands and I always get so excited when I find ones that I truly, unconditionally love...like the 3 I want to share with you today!

And while I do have quite a bit more to test/review for two of them, I just couldn't keep these a secret any longer! So, without further ado.....

Lemongrass Spa

When founder Heidi was pregnant with her daughter, she realized that there were many toxins in everything she was using. Determined to find safer solutions, she began making her own products and in no time "Lemongrass Spa" was born! Free from phthalates, mineral oils, parabens, sulfates, bismuth oxyxhloride, formaldehyde, talc, lake dyes, carmine, nano-particles, gluten and gmo's, Lemongrass Spa uses only high quality, Organic ingredients that are good for you, your skin and the environment! They are also cruelty free!

1) Prebiotic Facial Wash - I am in love with this cleanser! Ph balanced so that it won't strip your skin of its natural oils, this foaming gel cleanser removes make-up, dirt and grime like a champ! I like to use this at night after I oil cleanse and my skin is left feeling soft and clean. I've noticed that since I have been using this every night that my skin is getting clearer, which of course makes me very happy! I definitely recommend this to anyone, but especially those who are acne prone!

Price - $14
Ingredients: Purified Water, Coconut Oil, Sea Salt, Kelp, Chamomile Extract, Citric Acid and Glycerin (plant derived)

2) Prebiotic Facial Mist - This hydrating facial mist with Coconut Oil, Sea Kelp and Organic plant extracts helps keep skin clear and healthy by promoting good bacteria already present in the skin to flourish and eliminating the bad. The perfect companion to the Prebiotic Facial Wash!

Price - $14
Ingredients: Purified Water, Saponified Coconut Oil, Sea Kelp, Organic Plant Extracts, Soy Lecithin, Aloe and Citric Acid

*Stay tuned for more reviews from this awesome brand!

Indie Lee

A favorite among green beauty bloggers, Indie Lee is an eco-chic brand that proves that "green" is definitely glamorous! From the sleek, modern packaging, to the clean, nourishing ingredients, this is a brand that needs to be on your radar..asap!

1) Rosehip Cleanser - Formulated with vitamin C rich Rosehip, this creamy gel cleanser has become a staple in my morning routine! My skin can be very sensitive, but this cleanser is so gentle and nourishing that my skin is only left clean and hydrated. Highly, highly recommend!

Price - $32
Ingredients - Aqua, Sodium Olivate (Fatty Acid from Olive), Glycerin, Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil, Chondrus Crispus, Eriobotrya Japonica Extract

2) Vanilla Citrus Body Oil - Hands down, this is my favorite body oil..ever! It's multi-tasking (can be used on body, face and hair), smells like heaven (vanilla with a hint of orange..mmmmmm), makes your skin feel softer than a baby's bottom, and the scent lasts allllll day! I seriously can't rave enough about this!

Price - $36
Ingredients - Simmondsia Chinensis (jojoba) Oil, Prunus Armeniaca (apricot) Oil, Vanilla Planifolia (vanilla), Citrus Aurantium Sinensis (sweet orange)

Neal's Yard Remedies

Creating products that benefit body, mind, well-being and environment, Neal's Yard Remedies is passionate about helping people to transform their lives, educating and empowering them to be more healthy through the power of nature.

1) Organic Inner Strength Tea - With ingredients like Echinacea and Elderberry to boost immunity and Acerola, Elderflower and Ginger to warm and soothe, this spicy tea is the perfect drink for when fighting off a cold or just as a treat in the colder months to come. I love to add a touch of honey to sweeten things up! It's pure bliss in a mug!

Other benefits:

• Warms and comforts
• Naturally caffeine-free
• Oxygen-bleached bags (chlorine free)
• No staples or glues
• Compostable bags
• Plastic-free bags
• 100% organic
• Non GM

Price - $4.99
Ingredients - Astragalus root*, Elderberry*, Elderflower*, Echinacea herb*, Ginger root*, Acerola extract*.

*Organically produced ingredient. Made with 100% organic ingredients. This is a vegan product.

2) Bee Lovely Body Butter - Lightly scented and decadently rich, this body butter is a true skin treat! Organic Honey, Shea and Cocoa Butters leave skin soft and deeply moisturized, while the subtle fragrance from Mandarian Orange Essential Oil uplifts the senses. This is the first body butter I have tried that doesn't leave my skin feeling greasy, which I love. The texture is creamy and silky and it absorbs pretty quickly too. A little goes a long way.

Price - $32
Ingredients - Aqua/Water/Eau, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower)Seed Oil*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter*, TheobromaCacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter*, Cetyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder*, Mel*, Citrus Sinensis Peel Oil Expressed*, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil*, Styrax Tonkinensis Resin Extract*, Alcohol Denat.*, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Levulinic Acid, Sodium Levulinate, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Potassium Sorbate, Dehydroacetic Acid, Citral, Citronellol, Eugenol, Farnesol,Geraniol, Limonene, Linalool.

*Organically produced ingredient. Natural constituent of essential oils listed.

Made with 89% organic ingredients.

*Stay tuned for a review on some of their facial products!



So far, I am extremely impressed with everything I have tried from these 3 brands and I hope to try more in the future!

Have you tried anything from these brands? If so, what are your favorites?

Peace & Love,

Sabrina xoxo

**All products were generously sent to me for a review, all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own.

A Hot Toddy For Colds Works Wonders!

Hey guys! This is going to be a really quick post as I am sick with another nasty cold/flu and am about to make my new favorite natural remedy, so I thought I would share it with you!

Years ago, when I would have a cold, I would take NyQuil or Thera-Flu in addition to my usual natural remedies to help me sleep. Now, after learning what goes into them...ummmm yeah, no thanks - I started looking into more natural versions of these popular medicines.

I came across a recipe for a "Hot Toddy" the other day and decided to try it . I felt immediately better! So now, whenever I get sick with a cold, I will add this to my routine!

Please excuse the mess in the background!

Drink up, buttercup!

What you will need:

• Mug or glass
• Rum of choice
• Raw Honey
• Fresh Lemon
• Cinnamon (I used Pumpkin Pie Spice..because I'm addicted)
• Hot Water

Recipe:

• 2 Tbsp of Rum
• 1 tsp of Raw Honey 
• 1 slice of Lemon (you can add extra juice if you like)
• 1/4 tsp of Cinnamon (or one Cinnamon stick if you prefer)
• Hot Water

To Make:

• Boil water
• Add the Rum and honey to mug/glass 
• Once water is ready, pour into mug/glass and stir 
• Add Cinnamon and slice of Lemon
• Drink up and feel better! 

Why it works:

• Raw Honey is anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, strengthens the immune system, and is a powerful anti-oxidant!
• Lemon is a rich source of vitamin C, which helps boost immunity as well as breaking up nasty phlegm
• Cinnamon is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-oxidant
• Rum has anti-microbial benefits and helps to relax the body, allowing for more rest or sleep. 

Have you ever tried a Hot Toddy for a cold? 

Peace & Love,

Sabrina xoxo

Product Obsession: Avitalin's "Bee Venom Biolift Complex"

PR Sample

Avitalin is one of the most unique brands I have ever tried. One of the reasons for this is that their products are transdermally active - meaning that the ingredients used in their products are successfully transported in high concentrations to the deepest layers of the skin. This advanced delivery system allows Avitalin's formulas to begin the process of healing and strengthening the skin, which in turn means clearer, healthier, younger looking skin!

Founded by Marina Volod, a renowned clinical aesthetician, who has devoted herself to the study of the physiology of the skin, cosmetic ingredients and skin nutrition, Marina concentrates on making skincare products using high quality ingredients from both nature and science. Her goal was to create a line that would restore the skin's barrier, preserve the skin's health and help maintain its youthful appearance.

"Avitalin products feature nourishing oils, floral waters, plant extracts, essential oils, purified rare raisins, and therapeutic blends of herbal extracts whose benefits have been proved over the centuries. These and other natural ingredients restore healthy function, boost the skin's immune system, and help the skin retain moisture."

Avitalin’s formulas do not contain ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulfate, parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, artificial colors, fragrances, silicones, formaldehyde-releasing ingredients, ureas, propylene glycol, ammonia compounds or triclosan. Their ingredients are Fair Trade and Certified Organic whenever possible and are approved by the UK Soil Association and Ecocert (internationally recognized organizations known for their high standards in the regulation of cosmetics).

They manufacture their products in small batches and each batch is made to order. They never test on animals, and when they obtain ingredients from them, it is done without harm.

After reading up on them and reaching out to Marina, I was beyond excited to be able try one of Avitalin's outstanding products and today I want to share my thoughts with you!

"This skin- transforming gel-cream formula with bee venom and royal jelly helps to increase blood flow to the skin while reactivating the cellular renewal process providing an instant lifting and plumping effect."

Benefits of Bee Venom: 

• Increases blood flow to the skin and improves blood circulation
• Creates an instant plumping effect 
• Boosts the repairing process and activates skin's rejuvenating mechanism
• Reduces skin inflammation

Key Ingredients: 

• Bee venom:  helps to increase circulation; stimulates production of collagen; plumps and firms the skin
• Royal jelly: supports the skin's connective tissue; evens skin tone; reduces inflammation
• Phospholipids: protect the barrier function; provide sufficient delivery of the nutrients into deeper layers of the skin
• Hyaluronic acid: restores skin's natural hydration balance
• Argan oil: promotes healing; reduces free radical damage

My thoughts:  I really loved the gel like cream consistency, the subtle clean scent and how only a tiny bit was needed to moisturize, plump and smooth my skin. I also noticed that while I was using this, that my skin seemed to calm down quite a bit - there was a definite reduction in redness, dry patches and breakouts! That combined with the stellar list of ingredients used in this was enough to make me an instant fan! In fact, I am so impressed with how my skin has reacted (or not reacted) to this moisturizer, that I want to try more of Avitalin's products! I do wish that they would list the full ingredients of the products on their website (they are listed on the product and package). Other than that, I'm a smitten kitten for this brand! 

Price: $70
Full Ingredients: Aqua/eau (distilled water), Aloe Barbadenis (Aloe Vera) Juice, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Emulsifying Wax, Vegetable Glycerin, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid), Stearic Acid, Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) Extract, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Extract, Algae Extract, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Phospholipids, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Apis Venenum Purum (Bee Venom) Extract, Apis Mellifera (Royal Jelly), Bee Pollen, Xantham Gum, Leuconostoc (Radish Root) Ferment Filtrate, Potassium Sorbate, Fragrance (Essential Oils)

*Note - Do not use this product if you are pregnant, breast feeding or are allergic to bee stings!

**Product was sent for me to review, however all thoughts and opinions are my own

Have you ever tried anything by Avitalin? If so, what are your favorite products?

From Russia With Love - Introducing Lyeska Skincare

Photo Credit

The idea for Lyeska Skincare was conceived in Russia's remote Far East when founder Katya Hegg discovered the remarkable healing properties of Siberian Cedar Nut Oil. Rich in Vitamin E, essential fatty acids, Phospholipids and amino acids, this oil provides superior hydration, even in the coldest and harshest climates!

Driven by a desire to find new and effective ways to protect and nourish her skin and inspired by her experience with the cedar nut oil, Katya began developing her own skincare line based on this amazing ingredient.

All of Lyeska's product formulations are created to be both simple and effective, combining the nourishing benefits of the Siberian Cedar Nut Oil with other select ingredients that are known to address specific skin needs. None of Lyeska's products contain artificial colors, toxic fragrances, GMO's or harsh preservatives. They are also cruelty free and eco-friendly.

I recently had the pleasure of testing a few of Lyeska's products and today I'd like to share my thoughts with you!

*PR Samples

1) Facial Cleanser - This light gel cleanser cleans skin without stripping away natural oils, so skin feels soft, not tight after washing. Formulated with nourishing Cedar Nut Oil, rejuvenating Apple Fruit Extract and combined with the antiseptic and anti-inflammatory benefits of Burdock Root and Calendula Flower Extracts, this cleanser is great for all skin types. It has a light, woodsy/floral scent and rinses cleanly. This is a really nice cleanser for those who prefer gels to cream/milk cleansers.

Price - $38
Full Ingredients - *Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Pinus Sibirica (Cedar) Nut Oil, Glycerin, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Lactobacillus Ferment, Water, Salix Nigra (Willow) Bark Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, PCA, *Arctium Lappa (Burdock) Root Extract, *Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract, *Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Oil, Citrus Junos (Yuzu) Flower Oil,*Rosa Damascena (Rose) Flower Oil, Schizandra Sphenanthera (Schisandra) Fruit Extract, Citrus Sinensis (Blood Orange) Peel Oil, *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, P-Anisic Acid, Sclerotium Gum, Xanthan Gum

*Organic ingredients 

2) Rejuvenating Serum - Formulated with Cedar Nut Oil, Black Currant, Green Tea and Peptides, this lightweight serum helps to repair, detoxify, brighten, firm and revitalize your skin. Sadly, since I only had a small sample to work with (maybe a week or two's worth of product), I didn't notice much firming, but my skin did seem to become less red and I found that this did seem to hydrate really well too - 2 huge pluses in my book! I'd really love at some point see what a full size of this serum could do for me!

Price - $65
Full Ingredients - Water, Pinus Sibirica (Siberian cedar) Nut Oil, Lactobacillus Ferment, *Glycerin, *Oryza Sativa (Rice) Seed Extract, *Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Fruit Extract, Bentonite, Hexapeptide-11, Sodium Hyaluronate, Betula Alba (Birch) Leaf Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizinate,*Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract, *Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavander) Flower Oil, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Neroli) Flower Oil, Citrus Aurantium (Petitgrain Bigarade) Leaf Oil, *Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium) Flower Oil, Bisabolol, Boswellia Carterii (Frankincense) Resin Extract, *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, *Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, P-Anisic Acid, Sclerotium Gum, Xanthan Gum

*Organic ingredients

3) Moisturizing Facial Lotion -  One of the things I loved the most about this moisturizer is how light it felt on my skin! It had a consistency similar to that of the serum, yet was a bit more hydrating, though not at all greasy. And with ingredients like Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, Rose Flower Water, Rosehip Seed Extract and Shea Butter, my skin just drank this up like a greedy glutton! For those who want a moisturizer that hydrates, but doesn't feel rich or heavy, this one's for you!

Price - $54
Full Ingredients - *Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, *Rosa Damascena (Rose) Flower Water, Pinus Sibirica (Siberian Cedar) Nut Oil, Ethyl Macadiamate Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, *Glycerin, *Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Cetyl Alcohol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) Seed Extract, Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Seed Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Powder, *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, *Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower)Seed Oil, *Matricria Recutita (German Chamomile) Flower Extract, P-Anisic Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, Bentonite, Xanthan Gum

*Organic ingredients 

4) Eye Cream - I've been looking for a good eye cream for awhile now - one that isn't too rich or too greasy, won't irritate my under eye skin or cause any kind of break outs - basically, like Goldilocks, I was looking for one that would be just right. This eye cream from Lyeska combines Arctic Root, Cornflower, Raspberry and White Extracts with the fatty acids and Vitamin E from the Siberian Cedar Nut Oil to nourish and hydrate skin cells, while also promoting collagen production, reducing dark circles and firming and smoothing skin. The texture is rich, though not overly, and absorbs quickly with no oily feel. I did not experience any irritation or breakouts while using this nightly for 2 weeks. So, I'd say this pretty much covered what I was looking for!

Price - $52
Ingredients - Water, Pinus Sibirica (Siberian Cedar) Nut Oil, Betaine, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Extract, Rhodiola Rosea (Arctic Root) Extract, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, *Hydrolyzed Linseed Extract, Lactobacillus Ferment, Squalane, Centraurea Cyanus (Cornflower) Flower Extract, *Oryza Sativa (Rice) Seed Extract, *Camellia Sinensis (White Tea) Leaf Extract, *Glycerin, Cetyl Palmitate, Sorbitan Palmitate, Sorbitan Olivate, Hexapeptide-11, Sodium Hyaluronate, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed Extract, Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract, Amorphophallus Konjac Root Powder, Sclerotium Gum,*Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, *Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, P-Anisic Acid

*Organic ingredients

Have you ever tried anything from Lyeska Skincare? What were your favorites?

Peace & Love,

Sabrina xoxo

Eco-Friendly Gift Ideas Under $50 From Orange Harp + A Discount Code!

Photo Credit

Hey guys! I don't know if any of you have started your holiday shopping yet, or even started thinking about it for that matter (last minute shoppers like me raise your hand!), but I thought I'd get a jump on posting some gift guides for this season... and maybe give myself some ideas while I am at it!

Today, I am collaborating with Orange Harp, a phone app that offers eco-friendly and socially conscious products for all tastes and budgets (you can read my previous post on them here).

I've selected several items that I thought would be of interest - and since I am on a strict spending "diet" - affordable too! Also, look out for a discount code at the end of this post! ;-)

Now, let's check out the list!

First up, a few things for the ladies...

1) Woodland Terranium Vial Necklace from Lovehewn - How gorgeous is this hand crafted vintage necklace made from 100% recycled and re-purposed materials?! Each made to order vial contains beautiful botanical treasures from the rainforests of the Pacific Northwest and may also include moss, bark, twigs, flower petals or stones. Every one is completely different and unique! $24

2) Hanna Organic Skincare "Essential Travel Kit" - A travel kit is the perfect way to treat or introduce someone to cleaner, greener skincare and this one from Hanna Organic Skincare is simply a must buy! Each kit comes with 1oz containers of their "Lavender Grains", "Gentle Cleanser", "Gentle Toner" and a .25oz container of "Renew". All products are free from parabens, parfumes, synthetic preservatives, are made in the USA and do not contain GMO's. The lovely travel bag is handmade by owner Karen's sister too! $35

3) Lavender-Infused Botanic Bath Salts from Pura Botanica - Holidays can be stressful, and what better way to wind down after all the celebrating is over than with a bath filled with the calming scent of Lavender? Made with pure Bolivian Sea Salt and infused with a mixture of organic Lavender, Chamomile, Lemongrass and essential oils, these bath salts will whisk you away to a more peaceful state of being in no time! All ingredients are Organic and sustainably harvested. $23.80

1) Amethyst & Gold Brass Hoop Earrings from Lovehewn - Check out these gorgeous handcrafted earrings made from recycled brass and wire and decorated with vintage, semi-precious Amethyst stones! These are sure to bring out the inner Bohemian in any woman! $28

2) Sweet Chai Soy Candle from Pura Botanica - Every year, I always get my Nana a candle for Christmas and this one, from Pura Botanica would be perfect! With hints of Orange, Cinnamon, Clove and Vanilla, this sweet and spicy scented candle will surely delight anyone's senses! $27.20

3) Ambanja Madagasscar Chocolate Bar from Dandelion Chocolate - I love to give some kind of chocolate treat as a gift for Christmas (I mean, who doesn't love chocolate?!) and this one from Dandelion Chocolates looks like it would be a hit with any chocoholic in your life! Made with just Cocoa Beans from Madagascar and organic Cane Sugar ethically sourced from Brazil, this bar is described as having a combination of citrus and tangy fruit flavors in its flavor profile! Yum! $8


And let's not forget the men!

1) Leather Pint Glass Sleeve from Pedal Happy - Keep that beer cold longer with this handcrafted glass sleeve! Made without any harmful chemicals, and dyed with vegetable dye, this can also be customized with a name, logo, image or whatever you think your guy would like! $15

2) All Natural Soap Bars from Pura Botanica - Not just for women, these lush cleansing bars will leave your man feeling soft and nourished and smelling irresistible! Choose from "Chai Vanilla", "Herbal Tonic", "Peppermint Leaf" or "Spiced Citrus". Made with organic and sustainably harvested ingredients. $6 

3) High Desert Beard Oil from Juniper Ridge - While I personally like some facial hair on my man, I don't like how rough and scratchy it can be on my delicate skin! For any of you gals that feel that way, I may have found the perfect solution! Made with Organic Jojoba Oil and scented with wildcrafted fragrance distilled from plants from the Mojave Desert from Southern California, this face and beard oil from Juniper Ridge will soften things up in no time! $45


Orange Harp has soooooo many amazing looking products on their site that it was really difficult to narrow down my choices! Seriously, this could have been a lot longer!!

Now for the best part! Orange Harp is generously giving my readers a discount code to use on their app store. Just use code  "BECOHOLIC" at checkout to receive 15% off your purchase! Discount is valid until Sunday, November 22nd, 2015! If you haven't yet downloaded the app - go do so! It's free and you'll be able to browse through all of their fab products! 

Happy Shopping!

Peace & love,
Sabrina xoxo

It's All About Balance...

Hey guys! I hope you all had a fun Halloween! My hubs and I went low-key again this year and spent the night eating a yummy homemade dinner (all organic and healthy) and gorging on candy (not organic or healthy) while watching the season premiere's of "Grimm" and "Ash VS Evil Dead"! They were both really good, BTW! :-)

While I was stuffing my face with candy that I shouldn't be eating (Reese's PB cups and Snickers you are my kryptonite, damn you!), I started thinking about what I eat, and how certain things have changed not only in my life, but my thoughts on life too. And that got me thinking about "balance".

When I first started my journey back into a more clean and natural lifestyle, I had a full time job that paid decently and I could afford to be as strict as I wanted with what I bought in terms of food, personal care, clothing, etc...(I still pretty much am when it comes to my skincare products, make up, cleaning products and pet foods - though if a skincare or make-up product isn't 100% pure or clean as I like, but it is what I can afford and I don't have a reaction to it, I'm not going to freak or get down on myself).

Two years ago, however, a lot of things changed. My back pretty much "gave out" on me and I was forced to take a leave of absence from work. Right as I found out I needed to have major surgery, my employer let me go. So I was out of a job. Though the surgery was a success, the recovery process was slow and painful and some other issues developed. In addition, foods that I loved and ate with abandon (at this time I was mostly a raw vegan) made me nauseous and I began craving certain foods I generally stayed away from. I cut myself some slack because, after all, my body was healing and if I was craving chicken or eggs or even steak, I was going to eat it.

Because of all of the stress I was under - major surgery, losing my job, personal issues - I developed some other health problems, all of which still prevent me from working outside of the home. I'm working hard to restore my health, but in the meantime, I am fortunate enough to bring in a little income by working for my father-in-law, managing a few social media sites and my affiliates. But because the majority of income comes from my husband, we have had to really budget ourselves and unfortunately, sometimes that means buying something that might not be organic. We do try and still get as much organic and non-gmo as we can, but we also don't want to live a life that is so strict and rigid that we can't enjoy it.

So that brings me to the "balance" part. While I do strive to live as clean, healthy, and non-toxic a lifestyle as I can, I also have to be realistic and not beat myself up if I slip up, or give in to my intense craving for pizza or french fries..or even gmo filled Reeses or Snickers!

I live in a small town that doesn't have organic restaurants (the cleanest thing we have is a Chipotle's), or a Whole Foods or farmer's markets that sell all organic produce. I wish we did! But if we want to go out to eat, we know our options are limited so we don't stress over it. We just eat better the next day. We honestly probably eat 70-80% organic, non-gmo and 20-30% not so clean. And I'm ok with that. I've learned to be less strict with my diet and listen to my body more. If I'm craving chicken, I eat it. I do make sure any meat we buy IS organic..since we still don't eat a lot of it. But I don't feel guilty anymore for eating it. I don't think in terms of vegan, vegetarian, paleo, gluten free, etc..I don't apply labels to my diet anymore. And if I want some treat that isn't all that good for me, well, I'm going to eat that too - just not too much of it! The thing is, I'm human, I'm not perfect. I believe in progress, not perfection. I try and do the best I can with the budget and resources I have, while not restricting myself to the point where I am miserable.

And honestly, I'm much happier and less stressed for having this attitude now! :-)


How do you live a balanced life? Do you allow yourself to cheat a little? I'd love to hear your thoughts! 

Peace and love,
Sabrina xoxo

Acure Organics Introduces Some New Products For Fall & Supports Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

I've been in love with Acure Organics for awhile now (see exhibits a, b, and c) and recently they came out with a few new things for Fall, which I had the pleasure to try out. But before I get into the nitty gritty of a review, let me just say that this love affair is in no danger of fizzling out anytime soon!

New Products For Fall...

  

Coconut & Argan Oil Cleansing Towelettes - I've heard many a good thing about Acure's cleansing towelettes and I am happy to say that all of the hubub was spot on! Scented with the intoxicating perfume of Coconut and formulated with such goodness like Olive Fruit, Sesame, Grapeseed and of course Argan Oils, these cloths are great for quickly removing make-up and cleansing skin (or hands after eating super saucy or messy finger foods). Toss them in your purse or gym bag for on the go travel or keep in your desk drawer to freshen up during the day, these handy, non-toxic and biodegradable wipes are perfect for the busy gal on the go! 

Price - $6.99

Ingredients - Water, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E Acetate), Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate/Caprate, Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate/Sebacate, Citric Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate (From Glycerin + Coconut), Glyceryl Undecylenate(From Glycerin + Castor Bean Oil), Potassium Sorbate, Flavor (Organic Coconut Oil).

Coconut Straightening Shampoo & Conditioner - Continuing on with the coconut theme are their new Straightening Shampoo and Conditioner. Both smell like a pina colada (yum!) and both contain ultra hydrating Marula Oil and Coconut Water to keep hair smooth and frizz free. I love the rich, moisturizing lather of the shampoo and the creamy, silky feel of the conditioner. My hair not only feels clean, but nourished after showering. And the scent lingers in my hair for days after, which I love as I wash my hair every 3 days (sometimes 4 if I'm sick or feeling lazy). Both products are color safe, vegan , gluten free , sulfate free, paraben free, phthalate free, cruelty free, petroleum free, PEG free, synthetic fragrance free, silicone free , and are 100% Biodegradable! Whew! 

Price - $9.99
Ingredients -
Shampoo: 

Organic Euterpe Oleracea (Acai) Berry Juice, Organic Rubus Fruticosus (Blackberry) Juice, Organic Rosa Canina (Rosehips) Extract (Aqueous), Organic Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Juice, Organic Fair Trade Aspalanthus linearis (Rooibos) (Aqueous), Organic Aloe Barbadensis Vera Leaf Juice, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate (From Coconut), 100% Naturally-Derived Betaine (from Sugar Beets), Vegetable Glycerin, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate (from Coconut + Amino Acids), Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate (from Coconut + Amino Acids), Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate (from Coconut + Amino Acids), Cocoglucosides Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride (Sugar Conditioner), Sodium Levulinate (from Corn), Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride (Guar Gum Conditioner), Potassium Sorbate (Food Grade Preservative), Organic Argania Spinosa (Argan) Oil, Organic Fair Trade Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, D-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Natural Vitamin E), Paullinia Cupana (Brazilian Cocoa) Phyto-Keratin, Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Water, Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula) Oil, Cysteine Amino Acid, Organic Coconut Flavor Oil

Conditioner: Organic Euterpe Oleracea (Acai) Berry Juice, Organic Rubus Fruticosus (Blackberry) Juice, Organic Rosa Canina (Rosehips) Extract (Aqueous), Organic Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Juice, Organic Fair Trade Aspalanthus linearis (Rooibos) (Aqueous), Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Stearylkonium Chloride, Vegetable Glycerin, Glucono Delta Lactone (Fermented Sugar), Organic Argania Spinosa (Argan) Oil, Cetearyl Glucoside (from Corn and Glucose), Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride (Guar Gum Conditioner), Glyceryl Stearate (Vegetable-Derived), l-Arginine (Amino Acid), Organic Fair Trade Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Sorbitan Olivate (from Olives + Sugar), Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Cellulose (Plant Derived), D-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Natural Vitamin E), Lactic Acid (Vegetable Derived), Paullinia Cupana (Brazilian Cocoa) Phyto-Keratin, Organic cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Water, Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula) Oil, Cysteine Amino Acid, Organic Coconut Flavor Oil

Partnership With Unite For Her

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Acure Organics is helping to take a stand against it by partnering with Unite for Her - a non-profit organization dedicated to providing women of all ages wellness and educational programs that complement traditional breast cancer therapies. These programs are designed to help educate, empower and restore - to find fun and interesting ways of communicating the importance of a healthy lifestyle, to offer opportunities via various initiatives to develop leadership skills, and to restore total health through holistic therapies such as yoga, nutrition, massage and meditation. 

To support Unite for Her's mission, Acure is donating $0.10 per sale of their Day & Night Creams for one full year!

Like all of Acure's products, these creams are formulated with only the purest, most effective, fair trade and organic ingredients available and it's honestly no surprise that they are two of their best sellers. And also like all of Acure's products, they are super affordable! 

 Day Cream - Firming and free radical fighting Gotu Kola Stem Cells are the superstar in this nourishing daytime moisturizer. Formulated for normal to dry skin (though my oily skin stayed hydrated with no excess shine), this cream absorbs easily, is non-greasy and the scent is both spicy and fruity - reminds me of those orange spice drop candies! I applied this over their Argan Oil and still my skin remained shine free! This also contains 1% Chlorella Growth Factor, which supports and protects collagen and elastin fibers from free radical damage! I found this makes a great primer for under make-up too, oh and no breakouts either!  

Price - $16.99
Ingredients - Organic Curoxidant™ Blend [(Organic Euterpe Oleracea (Acai) Berry, Organic Rubus Fruticosus (Blackberry), Organic Rosa Canina (Rosehips), Organic Punica granatum (Pomegranate), Organic Calendula Officinalis (Calendula), Organic Matricaria Recutita (Chamomile), Fair Trade Organic Aspalanthus Linearis (Rooibos)], Organic Aloe Barbensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Cetearyl Alcohol, Fair Trade Organic Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Organic Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate SE (Vegetable Derived), Vegetable Glycerin, Organic Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Oil, Infusion of Organic Calendula Officinalis Flower in Organic Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, Glucono Delta Lactone (Fermented Sugar), Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) Stem Cell Culture, Marrubium vulgare (White Horehound) Stem Cell Culture, Echinacea Stem Cell Culture, Fermented Resveratrol Extract (Probiotic), Organic Argan Oil, CoQ10, Olive Leaf extract, Organic Chlorella Pyrenoidosa (Chlorella Growth Factor), Citrus Reticulata (Red Mandarin) Oil, D-Alpha Tocoperyl Acetate (Natural Vitamin E), Organic Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil, Potassium Sorbate, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Bud Oil

Night Cream - The perfect counterpoint to the Day Cream, this lightweight, yet deeply hydrating nighttime moisturizer calms, soothes and repairs your skin while you snooze. 2% Chlorella Growth Factor strengthens collagen and elastin fibers, while Moroccan Argan Oil seals in moisture. The texture is creamy, absorbs quickly and the scent is lightly herb-y with a hint of lavender. Like the Day Cream, the Night Cream keeps my skin shine free and doesn't break it out. In fact, after using both products religiously for a month (along with their face wash, toner and Argan Oil), my skin looked better than it has in a long while! No break outs, no redness, no dryness - just calmer, smoother, clearer, happier skin! 

Price - $17.99
Ingredients - Organic Curoxidant™ Blend [(Organic Euterpe Oleracea (Acai) Berry, Organic Rubus Fruticosus (Blackberry), Organic Rosa Canina (Rosehips), Organic Punica Granatum (Pomegranate), Organic Calendula Officinalis (Calendula), Organic Matricaria Recutita (Chamomile), Fair Trade Organic Aspalanthus Linearis (Rooibos)], Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot Kernel) Oil, Persea Americana (Avocado) Oil, Vegetable Glycerine, Prunus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Glyceryl Stearate (Vegetable Derived), Cetyl Alcohol, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil, Glucose (Sugar), Glucose Oxidase & Lactoperoxidase (Milk & Sugar Enzymes), Organic Chlorella Pyrenoidosa (Chlorella Growth Factor), Organic Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Oil, Hypericum Perforatum (St Johnswort) Oil, Marrubium Vulgare (White Horehound) Stem Cell Culture, Echinacea Stem Cell Culture, Fermented Resveratrol Extract (Probiotic), Organic Argan Oil, CoQ10, Olive Leaf Extract, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Stem Cell Culture, Lavandula Officinalis (Lavender) (Essential) Oil, Citrus Limonium (Lemon) Oil, Xanthan Gum.

Have you tried anything from Acure Organics? Which are your faves? 

Peace & Love,

Sabrina xoxo

*All products were generously sent to me to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.