February Conscious Box 2015 - Gluten-Free

  February Conscious Box 2015 - Gluten-Free

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Amazing Grass Amazing Meals

Wild Garden Hummus Snack Pack

February 2015 Happiness Survey

Rate

10pts

Mayesa Cacao Drink Original

greenshield organic (TM) Free & Clear laundry detergent

Infusion Sciences Youth Infusion

SmartyPants KIDS COMPLETE

Your Tea Skin Magic

KIND Bar STRONG & Kind Honey Smoked BBQ

SmartyPants ADULT COMPLETE + FIBER

Forearm Plank

by Skinny Mom Team

Planks: Planks are one of the most reliable and trustworthy core exercises, primarily because they hit nearly all of the muscles of your abs! Make sure you keep your butt down, and your back as flat as possible. For more directions, click here.

• Beginner: 3 one-minute planks (try to hold for 1 minute, if your form starts to falter, rest for 5-10 seconds then resume your plank for the rest of the minute)
• Advanced: 3 two-minute planks (or mix it up with 6 Plank Modifications to See More Results)
• Why? This move works your complete core to the max and there are hundreds of plank variations to keep it fresh and keep your muscles building in new ways.

Move Targets: Abdominal muscles

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Step-By-Step:

Step 1: Lie face down on floor resting on your forearms. Push off the floor, raising up onto toes and resting on the elbows. Keep your back flat, contracting your abdominal muscles while you hold your body in a straight line from head to toe. Don’t let your butt sag or stick up in the air. Hold in this position for 60 seconds.

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Modification (Beginner): Drop your knees to the floor a few times during the 60 seconds.

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Let the sprouting begin!

Nothing makes me happier mid winter than knowing spring is just around the corner, and the marker for me is when it's time to start germinating my seeds for my garden!  This year I decided to germinate a few seeds in wet paper towels, dampened with a little bit of seaweed solution. I started them on 2/22/15.

 After nearly 3 days here are the Giant Szegedi sweet pepper seeds.

 After nearly 3 days here are the Gold Berries Tomato seeds, a new cherry type tomato I'm going to plant this spring.

After nearly 3 days here are the seeds of the Sensitive plant. Last year I grew them directly in potting soil and their germination was very sporadic! So I'm not surprised that only 3 have sprouted.

Kneeling Side Crunch

by Skinny Mom Team

Kneeling Side Crunch: Looking for a way to target those obliques? Then this is the perfect exercise for you! Keep your core engaged as you lift your leg to keep yourself stable, and crunch toward your outstretched toes. If you need more information, go ahead and click here.

• Beginner: 3 sets of 12 per side
• Advanced: 3 sets of 15 per side
• Why? This move works your obliques and lats and is a great move to trim your middle.

Move Targets: Core

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Step-By-Step:

Step 1: Kneel on the floor and lean all the way over to your right side, placing your right palm on the floor. Keeping your weight balanced, extend your left leg and point your toes. Place your left hand behind your head, pointing your elbow toward the ceiling.
Step 2: Now, slowly lift your leg to a little above hip height
Step 3: Lower your leg back to your starting position. This is one rep. Do two sets of 6-8 reps, and then switch sides.

Mountain Climber

by Skinny Mom Team

Mountain Climbers: This push up-like exercise will really crank up the heat! Try to bring your knees as far up to your chest as you can (without kicking yourself!), and remember that the faster you go, the more you will sweat! Click here for instructions.

• Beginner: 3 sets of 10-20 per side
• Advanced: 3 sets of 20-40 per side (or as many as you can for 60 seconds)
• Why? This move does it all and will get your heart rate up for a great cardio burst.

Move Targets: Total body

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Step-By-Step:

Step 1: Get in a push up position. Your body should be in a straight, diagonal line from your head to your toes. 
Step 2: Raise your right knee toward your chest.
Step 3: Return to starting position and repeat with left leg. That’s one rep.
Step 4: Alternate legs quickly for 60 seconds.

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Modification (Beginner):Decrease your speed and range of motion. 

Plank Tuck Twist

 

by Skinny Mom Team

Plank Tuck Twist with Stability Ball: This exercise will really bring the sweat! It works both arms, legs, and abs, and even seems to defy gravity! Use your core in order to keep yourself balanced. Click here for more information.

• Beginner: 3 sets of 10 per side
• Advanced: 3 sets of 12-15 per side
• Why? This move works your arms, shoulders, back, core, and lower body.

Move Targets: Total body

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Step-By-Step:

Step 1: Lie facedown on the ball with your hands on the floor in front of you (the “up” part of a push-up), with only your shins and tops of your feet on the ball.

Step 2: Bring your knees in, pivoting them sideways so they come towards your right armpit.

Step 3: Move your legs back out to plank position, and then repeat on the other side. That’s 1 rep. Repeat for 10 reps.

Burpee

by Skinny Mom Team  

Burpees: This is one of the most challenging exercises, because it wipes you out after only a couple reps! Hang in there, though – the benefits are worth it! For more information on how to do a burpee, click here.

• Beginner: 3 sets of 10 (without the push up – see below)
• Advanced: 3 sets of 15 (for an added challenge, add a push up when you have jumped your feet back to push up position)
• Why? This move does it all, plus it will get your heart rate up for a great cardio session!

Move Targets: Total body

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Step-By-Step:

Step 1: Stand with your feet hip-width apart and your hands tucked behind your head with elbows out.

Step 2: Start with a quick jump then push your hips back, bend your knees and drop down, placing your hands on the floor in front of you.

Step 3: Kick your legs backward so that you’re now in a push up position.

Step 4: Quickly reverse the movement to return to the starting position by bringing your feet back into your hands.

Step 5: Push through your feet and jump up to the start position. That’s one rep.

 

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Modification (Beginner): Do not jump up into starting position, and rather than hopping back with both feet, step back one foot at a time.

Modification (Advanced): Once in push up position (step 3), lower your body until your chest nearly touches the floor. As you lower, tuck your elbows close to your body so your upper arms form a 45-degree angle when lowered. Pause, and then push back up. Continue with remaining steps.
 

Vegan Wrap - Vegan Apple Maple sausage

Ingredients

• Black Rice Tortilla - gluten-free
• Field Roast Vegan sausage - Apple Maple
• Vegan Gourmet - Sour Cream - Dairy Alternative
• Almond Cheddar Style - Vegan cheese alternative
• Sabra hummus
• Red onion
• Tomato
• Cucumber
• Avocado
• Spinach
• Fresh Basil
• Bean Sprouts
• Organic Ghee (the only dairy item...use olive oil for vegan alternative) 
• Cumin seeds
• Black mustard seeds
• Fresh garlic
• Sriracha

Directions
Slice the Vegan sausage into bite-sized pieces and heat with some oil in pan until hot and to a preferable crisp.  
Heat Ghee with garlic, fresh ground black mustard seeds and cumin seeds and saute onion in tomatoes in it.
Slice the almond cheddar and place on black rice tortilla. Heat the Tortilla to soften (the cheese alternative will melt as well).  
Add some hummus, Vegan sour cream, Fresh basil and avocado. Top with spinach and bean sprouts. Add the cooked vegan sausage. 
Squeeze some sriracha on top for an extra kick. Fold and it's ready to eat!

 

Enjoy!

Benefits of Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide, or H2O2 as referred to in chemistry, is often used as a household disinfectant. What most people do not know is that hydrogen peroxide is the only germicidal agent that is composed of water and oxygen only. We bet that you have a bottle in the medicine cabinet or under your kitchen sink.

Hydrogen peroxide is commonly used to sanitize small cuts or whiten delicate items, but it sure has a wide range of uses, and just a few people know how to fully use its power.

1. Disinfect small cuts
As a natural anti-septic, hydrogen peroxide is often used to prevent any infections in cases of small cuts.
 
2. Hair bleach
Hydrogen peroxide is more gentle than regular household bleach, and it is great if you want to lighten your hair.
 
3. Add highlights
For the classic ‘sun-bleached’ look, just spray some hydrogen peroxide on your dump hair. Let it soak for 10-15 minutes and rinse.
 
4. Whitening effect
Combine baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to make a homemade toothpaste. It will help you remove any stains when used regularly.
 
5. Antiseptic mouth rinse
A cap full of hydrogen peroxide is a perfect mouth rinse. It whitens teeth and kills germs responsible for bad breath.
 
6. Disinfect your toothbrush
Soak your toothbrush in hydrogen peroxide to kill bacteria and other germs usually found in bathrooms.
 
7. Whiten your nails
Hydrogen peroxide can help you whiten your nails naturally. All you have to do is soak your fingertips and toes in.
 
8. Get rid of acne
Hydrogen peroxide is a nice face rinse. It kills bacteria that cause acne and contributes to a better skin complexion.
 
9. Heal Boils
To treat boils add 8 ounces, or half a bottle of hydrogen peroxide to a warm bath water and soak in.
Combine equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and warm water. This is the perfect foot soak that will soften corns and calluses naturally.
 
11. Remove ear wax
First, put a couple of drops of hydrogen peroxide into your ears. Wait for a minute or two, then put a couple of drops of olive oil. Wait for a minute, then drain the fluid from your ears. This will help you remove ear wax.
 
12. Prevent ‘Swimmer’s ear’
Combine equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and vinegar in a small bottle, and dropper bottle works perfectly as it enables easier application. After swimming, put several drops in each ear. This will prevent infections.
 
13. Relieve ear infections
To relieve ear infections put 6-8 drops of hydrogen peroxide in each ear.
 
14. Get rid of sub-dermal parasites
Kill mites and other parasites naturally by applying hydrogen peroxide on the affected area.
 
15. Treat foot fungus
Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water in a dark spray bottle, because light exposure reduces the effect of hydrogen peroxide. Apply the mixture on the skin area affected by foot fungus. Do this every night to prevent fungal growth.

Kitchen And Bath

16. Clean tile surfaces
Spray some hydrogen peroxide on tile to remove any stains or dirt.
 
17. Whiten grout 
Combine hydrogen peroide and white flour to get a thick paste. Apply the paste 
to grout and cover with a plastic wrap. Leave it overnight and rinse the next day.

18. Clean toilet bowls
Put half a cup of hydrogen peroxide into the toilet bowl. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes. This will clean and remove any stains.
 
19. Remove tub scum
Spray hydrogen peroxide in the bathtub to clean soap scum, dirt and stains. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes. Rinse to loosen grime and clean more easily.
 
20. Control mold and mildew
Spray hydrogen peroxide on the surfaces with mold and mildew to remove discoloration and prevent fungal growth.
 
21. Clean glass surfaces
Spray some hydrogen peroxide on mirrors and glass surfaces to loosen grime and dirt. Wipe with a clean and lint-free cloth.
 
22. Disinfect counter tops
Clean and disinfect kitchen and bathroom counter tops by spraying on some hydrogen peroxide.
 
23. Soak sponges and dishrags
Soak dirty rags and sponges into hydrogen peroxide for 15-30 minutes to disinfect.
 
24. Disinfect cutting boards
Disinfect your cutting board by spraying on some hydrogen peroxide. This will kill any bacteria and germs from meat and food that have soaked into the board.
 
25. Wash fruits and veggies
Spray hydrogen peroxide on fruits and vegetables. Let it soak for 1-2 minutes and rinse with clean water. This will remove dirt, wax and many other contaminants.
 
26. Clean the fridge
Spray hydrogen peroxide inside your fridge. Let it soak for a few minutes and wipe with a clean cloth. This will remove food remains and disinfect your fridge.

Other Household Uses

27. Whiten laundry
Add a cup of hydrogen peroide to the wash water. Soak your clothes in for 15-30 minutes. This will revitalize yellowed white fabrics.
 
28. Remove organic stains
Combine two parts of hydrogen peroxide and one part of dish detergent. Apply it to organic stains, for example coffee, wine, blood, sweat, etc.
However, you should remember that hydrogen peroxide will bleach any darker fabric. Pay special attention when using this technique!
 
29. De-Funk musty fabrics
Combine hydrogen peroxide and white vinegar. Soak musty fabrics in to remove any odors.
 
30. Clean rugs and carpets
Spray some hydrogen peroxide on light carpets and rugs. This will remove stains from food, mud, etc. Again, remember that hydrogen peroxide will bleach darker fabrics. You may want to test its effect on some inconspicuous area before applying the technique.
 
31. Refresh re-usable bags
Spray hydrogen peroxide in your re-usable cloth bags. This will clean, disinfect and remove any food odors.
 
32. Disinfect lunchboxes
Spray hydrogen peroxide in your lunchboxes, coolers, and cooler bags. Leave it on for a few minutes and wipe with a clean cloth. This will clean and disinfect your items.
 
33. Cleanse dehumidifiers
Add a pint of hydrogen peroxide to 1 gallon of water. Run the solution though humidifiers and remove mold and mildew. This is also a perfect disinfection agent.
 
34. Improve seed germination

• Hydrogen peroxide can remove fungal spores and increase germination rate. Just soak your seeds in.
•  Use hydrogen peroxide with caution – especially when you use it in higher concentrations. The liquid vapors and it may burn skin and lungs.
• Never swallow hydrogen peroxide when using it to cleanse your oral cavity.
• When consumed, H2O2 is severely detrimental to health. It causes dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and even death if used in large quantities.
• Remember, always use hydrogen peroxide externally!

Natural Cough Remedy

If you are looking for a natural cough remedy, there are a number of therapeutic-grade essential oils that can help strengthen your body as it seeks to get well. 

I've found different approaches work best for different kinds of coughs. Here are some natural cough remedies using essential oils for the typical varieties of coughs one may face.

Chest Cough
 
Using essential oils as a natural cough remedy can bring rapid relief for those coughs rising from the chest (as with bronchitis).

One simple approach is to layer Thieves blend, frankincense and then peppermint on the chest and neck.  Other oils that are good to rub on the chest for coughs are R.C., Eucalyptus globulus, tea tree and Raven. 

If the skin becomes sensitive to any of these oils, we just add a bit of a carrier oil called V-6.  A quality olive oil works well, too.

Also, here's a simple cough syrup recipe made with essential oils and honey that we've found effective. . .

Essential Oil Cough Syrup

1 drop lemon oil
1 drop orange oil
1 drop frankincense oil
1 drop peppermint oil
1 teaspoon honey
Add oils to honey on a spoon and swallow.

Source: Essential Oils Desk Reference

Any of these approaches can be repeated as needed.

Post Nasal Drip

Post nasal drip can frequently cause a cough to arise. When it does, applying the right essential oils can help clear the passages contributing to the cough.
There are a couple of ways we have used an essential oil solution to clear the nasal passages.

One is to mix salt water with a drop or two of an essential oil in a nasal spray bottle. My first choice is for the blend R.C. and Tea tree is a common option as well.

I prefer a glass nasal spray bottle, and was able to pick a couple up a few years ago.  Glass spray bottles can be hard to find, but with a little searching you should be able to locate one. 

If you don't want to order a spray bottle, you can get an inexpensive bottle of nasal saline spray and add your essential oils to it.  Since these plastic bottles are hard to clean, they are best discarded after a few days.

A second way we have cleared out the nasal passages to reduce cough symptoms is through the use of a Neti Pot.  We're inclined to lean toward this approach in cases of heavy congestion.

With the Neti Pot we use the same oils as we do with the spray bottle.  My husband has also found Rosemary to be effective when using the Neti-Pot.

Dry Cough

Here's a real simple natural cough remedy when I have a tickle in the throat.  All I do is take a drop of RC and rub it a few times with my finger tips.  Then I hold the finger tips directly on the spot that seems to be the source of the cough.  I'm amazed how well this works.

An enjoyable remedy for a dry cough is to make an essential oil tea.  Here's a recipe from the Essential Oils Desk Reference that many have found helpful...

Dry Cough Tea Recipe

2 drops lemon oil
3 drops Eucalyptus radiata
1 tsp blue agave or maple syrup
4 oz heated distilled water

Source: Essential Oils Desk Reference

As another alternative, I have used Thieves Antiseptic Spray in the mouth to remedy a dry cough.

For all kinds of coughs, using an essential oil diffuser is an excellent idea -- especially when sleeping.

I have never been one to want to use over the counter cough syrups, and I know there are many like me in this regard.  Therapeutic grade essential oils serve as an excellent alternative.

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