Reviews: Yoga Bliss Hips & Warrior Workout, Ana Brett and Ravi Singh

Kundalini Yoga With Ana Brett and Ravi Singh is a fun way to get into shape quickly while connecting to your divine potential.

Our primary objective", say Ana & Ravi, "is to help people learn to live a healthy and happy, more peaceful life that continues to challenge them to grow. We teach a system of exercise and meditation that fully integrates the body, mind, and spirit."

Husband and wife team, Ana Brett and Ravi Singh have a lot of charm and positivity that they share in their Kundalini Yoga DVD's. They have a way of making yoga fun, while still keeping it spiritual, authentic and effective. Many western yoga DVD's strip all the spirituality out, leaving only bleached exercises designed to get your body into shape alone. Ravi and Ana are concerned with the health of the spirit, the mind, the emotions and the body. Moderations are given for the exercises so you can increase your practice with time, allowing the DVD's to be ideal for yogi's of all levels. Powerful and addictive, Ravi & Ana's kundalini yoga is an easy way to get into shape quickly, while helping to connect you to your divine potential.

Yoga was originally considered a preparation technique for the inner evolution and outer transformation known as Kundalini. Kundalini is a creative, motivating force within that empowers us to excel in all things.  Kundalini yoga is a specific style of yoga for developing character, strength and consciousness. Known as the yoga of awareness, kundalini yoga focuses on exercises that expand sensory awareness and intuition.

A spiritual, physical, and mental discipline, kundalini yoga blends the science of sequence, movement, chanting, breathing, stretching and meditation. Kundalini yoga is more about the the power of breathing than concentrating on difficult exercises.

A unique element to this yoga is the breath of fire, a steady, in and out forceful breath through the nose, combined with specific positions and stretches, which provides an aerobic effect. The breath of fire oxygenates and purifies the bloodstream, stimulates the nadis and other energy flows in the body, stimulates the pituitary gland and helps bring all of the glands into balance and strengthens the magnetic field of the body.

Kundalini Yoga with Ravi & Ana is without question, the best yoga workouts I have ever done in my life.All of the kundalini yoga DVD's by Ana Brett and Ravi Singh utilize creative, intelligent sequencing. The yoga workouts are easy to follow and pleasant to listen to. Ana and Ravi take turns with the narration, lacing the dialogue with inspiring positive affirmations. The signature kundalini breath of fire interweaves in and out throughout the DVD's, taking turns with long and deep breathing.  These DVD's are quick to get you in shape - mind, body and spirit. The music is beautiful, the directions are easy to follow and the entire feel is relaxing, yet intense.  All three of these DVD's can be done (with the help of the matrix) by the beginner or the seasoned yogi. 

Ana & Ravi’s in-depth knowledge of physical anatomy and its metaphysical counterparts spill into the DVD's, keeping things interesting no matter how many times you do the workouts. The unique blend of breathing, inner focus, stretching, meditation, and chanting keep the the DVD's moving in a relaxed, yet exciting way. They are thorough workouts that keep true to traditional kundalini yoga with a modern, hip and colorful makeover. 

These two soul mates have authored over 22 DVD’s and books. Together they have trained over 300 practicing kundalini yoga teachers. The beautiful Ana Brett appears to get younger with age, perhaps an effect of the kundalini yoga that she practices on a daily basis. With 40 years combined teaching experience they continue to travel and teach workshops, conferences and retreats worldwide. They come across as knowledgeable and sincere both in person and in the DVDs.

Yoga has been like a magic potion in my life, something the saints and medicine healers have always known.  Overall I find all of Ravi and Ana's yoga workouts to be some of the most valuable yoga DVD's that I own ... and I have a lot of them, nearly a hundred.  I enjoy the positivity of the narrative, the soundtrack and the demonstration of the exercises by Ana. The Ravi & Ana collection is fun to watch and listen to even if you do not actually participate.

Both the Warrior Workout and the Yoga Bliss Hips are amazing.  They are both a lot of fun, just as all the other Ana & Ravi DVDS are.  Ana is as beautiful and lovely inside and out as always and the DVDS are well made and the quality and production is top-notch.  Containing exercises for strength building, aerobic efficiency, detoxing and flexibility ... the routines are simple enough to jump right in, but challenging enough to keep you pushing harder.  My left hip has been giving me a little pain lately, and I noticed that the more that I exercise it the better, so I was especially looking forward to the Yoga Hips Bliss workout.  I find that doing this routine keeps my hips feeling good, without any pain whatsoever ... hurray.

I especially love the older DVDs, the first ones that Ana and Ravi did together ... the days of the cute brunette and stomach grinding as a warm-up.  Years ago, my husband bought me a yoga DVD and it was one of Ravi and Ana's Kundali routines.  I fell in love with yoga because of them and the older DVDs that they have remind me of those days and that important fact ... they inspired me ... and they will inspire you too.

Thanks you guys.  I love you both!!!

Pros

• Ideal for yogi's of all levels
• Modern, hip and fun
• Ana Brett is a fashion savvy doll, demonstrating the exercises with precision and poise
• Exercises help to expand your consciousness
• Works amazingly quick, getting you into shape
• Easy to follow
• Nice soundtrack
• Full body workout
• Educational: Learn the purpose of the exercise as you are doing them
• Sonic healing to the transcendent sounds of live gong music
• Uplifting chants
• Powerful affirmations
• Learn from internationally celebrated yoga teachers

For more information please visit http://www.raviana.com

Yoga

Release your inner self, your original self ... the joyful magic of an unguarded spirit ... with yoga ...

Namaste ... my hands are in prayer position as I bow to you ... meaning the divine spark within me recognizes the divine spark within you.  This is a gesture of deep respect.   Namaste has a spiritual significance of negating or reducing one's ego in the presence of another ... something that alone could make the world a more peaceful and better place to live. 

Originally from India and dating back nearly 6,000 years, yoga has stood the test of time and has been used by many all over the world.  Yoga has been known to have a big effect on someone's life, bringing the mind and body into harmony and healing on all levels.  The popularity of this spiritual, physical and mental discipline is spreading and yoga is blossoming all around the world.  Defined as a moving meditation, yoga literally translates from Sanskrit meaning "to yoke" or  "of union".  The yogi will eventually realize their true nature and the oneness of all.

The health claims of yoga seam to have no end.  Name a problem and it is likely that yoga could help bring the body and mind into a healthy state, safe to call a "cure-all".  I began practicing years ago - detoxifying my body and mind, messaging my inner organs and breathing in a way that gave me greater control over the body that serves my spirit.  Happiness flooded my home and life took on a deeper calm, as I felt more at peace with myself and my world ... leading to better problem solving skills and decision making and overall vitality. 

Yoga is known to increase emotional well-being, increase flexibility, improve the posture, significantly reduce stress and stress responses, increase concentration levels, relieve lower back pain and numerous other various biochemical and physiological benefits.  It also helps to consciously connect to divinity and form a relationship with God.  The yogic lifestyle is bliss ...

Sat Nam! 

Review: R. Carlos Nakai & James DeMars- Spirit Horses

Emotive, evocative and intense, Spirit Horses sounds a lot like a film score.  I would love to find that it has found its way to a motion picture, as it would add great emotional depth to the characters and screenplay of a film.  I feel like I am part of a movie when it is playing, an array of archetypes released within me ... claiming their moment of life.

Nakais' Native American flute is without comparison, leading the tribe of musical elements of ethnic, jazz and classical sounds.  Composer and conductor James De Mars has created a gorgeous fusion of musical elements as a backdrop for Nakai's flute.  Famous for his cross-cultural collaborations, Nakais' flute is an authentic and powerful voice that speaks in the language of music.  Truly amazing ... highly recommended!

For more information, please visit Canyon Records.

Review: Native Tapestry

Native Tapestry is a delightful fusion of the world’s premier performer of the Native American flute, R. Carlos Nakai combined with a chamber orchestra, including the music of a European saxophone, African percussion, piano, cello and saxophone.  Like an epic adventure, Native Tapestry is timeless ... with rich, emotional depth and substance that invites the listener to get to know themselves better.

An evocative world music album with the graciousness of Nakai's Native American flute and all the ingredients of a fool's completed journey.

Great in the car, for meditation, yoga, settle the little ones and bring internal peace and joy ...

 For more information, please visit Canyon Records.

Track Listings

1. Crow Wing
2. Lake That Speaks
3. Spirit Call
4. Two World Sym: First Movement 'Doors Open On The Wind'
5. Two World Sym: Second Movement 'Drought'
6. Two World Sym: Third Movement 'Wandering Rains' 

Review: Ancestral Voices

18-tracks of pure bliss, Ancestral Voices is meditative, yet interesting with a gentle twist around every corner.  This album lifts me up any time I put it on ... and I have noticed that it does this to others too.  Soothing, spiritual and uplifting, Ancestral Voices is an album that pretty much anyone will appreciate. 

Traditional Folk Musician R.Carlos Nakai and guitarist William Eaton unite in resonance, along with the Black Lodge Singers, creating a unique album in celebration of  the rich traditions of the peoples of the Americas. Both Nakai and Eaton are celebrated musicians across the globe.  Their music together transcends time and cultural boundaries ... musical luminaries leading the way with lanterns held high.

The rich and dynamic landscape of tracks, create visions of the Earth in harmony with my heart ... beating to the sounds of inspired and guided musicians, whose instruments speak the language of the ancestral voice.

Timeless ...

For more information, please visit Canyon Records.

Track Listing

I. Witnesses:

1. Dreaming a Life (4:50)
2. Beyond the Edge (3:56)    
3. Caravanserai (3:37)    
4. Indios Mythos (4:06)    
5. Stone Mirage (4:08)    
6. Unfolding Sky (5:57)    

II. First People:

7. First Voices (2:02)
8. Covenants Shared (2:26)    
9. Promise Given (1:14)    
10. Making Thunder (4:32)    
11. Returning as Clouds (3:14)    
12. In the Silver Glow (5:09)

III. Dreamers:

13. Waking the Shining Earth (2:30)
14. Dreams of the Children (3:43)    
15. Earth Chant (4:58)    
16. Saguaros* (5:11)    
17. Life Seeking Eternity* (4:08)    
18. Many Flags (4:50)    

Total Time: 70:39

Review: Traditional Voices

Part of the Canyon Records Vintage Collection, Traditional Voices - Historic Recordings of Traditional Native American Music is a collection drawn from Canyon recordings made in the 1950's and early 1960's of various artists.  The sound quality varies from song to song, but overall the production and quality is high.  The music includes rare songs by historically important singers from over twenty tribes of the United States and Canada, offering a unique glimpse into the rich and varied tribal cultures of Native America through their songs and dances.  This is one of my favorite Canyon Records for several reasons.  The first is a bit more personal, as it reminds me of some important people who have played a unique and guiding role in my life.  Over seventy minutes long and containing 30 songs, the album is long ... another reason why I Love It.  The roughness and raw edge of the music is another favorite quality.  There is a sentiment that is captured, a truth preserved.  The liner notes provide a detailed source of information about each song, as well as the history Canyon Records.  The album preserves an important historical integrity ... Highly recommended

Get a taste of Traditional Voices by visiting Canyon Records.  Be sure to listen with a forgiving ear.  Many of these tracks have remained untouched to preserve them just as they were when they were originally recorded. 

Track Listings

1. Acoma Song Of The Sky City - Ed Lee Natay

2. Taos Pueblo Horse Tail Dance - Fred Romero

3. Zuni Buffalo Dance - L. Shebaba, Mallon, Ray Gasper

4. Tewa-'The Prisoner Song' - Leo Lacapa, Valentino Lacapa

5. Hopi Basket Dance - David Taliewiftema, Hopi Singers

6. Hopi Butterfly Dance - Harvey Lomawaima And His Dancers

7. Navajo Gift Dance Song - Joe Lee Of Lukachukai And Singers

8. Navajo Yei-Be-Chai Chant - Grey Mountain Yei-Be-Chai Team

9. Ute Bear Dance Song - Bert Redd, Mrs. Bert Redd, Eddie Box, James Mills

10. Apache-'The Mescalero Trail' - Murphy Cassa

11. Apache Mountain Spirit Dance - Charlie Hoffman, San Carlos Apaches

12. Pima-'Mountain By The Sea' - Traditional Voices-Various Artists

13. Tohono O'odham-'Song Of The Green Rainbow' - Big Field Villagers

14. Peyote Ceremonial Song - Johnny Buffalo (Bannock)

15. Shawnee Stomp Dance - Little Axe Singers

16. Shawnee-Four Corners - Little Axe Singers

17. Kiowa Round Dance - William Koomsa, Sr., Kiowa Singers

18. Kiowa Medium Fast War Dance - William Koomsa, Sr., Kiowa Singers

19. Fast Southern Cheyenne War Dance - Cheyenne Dave Group: T. Nightwalker, D. Osage, Alberta Whiteskunk, Nellie Whiteskunk

20. Southern Cheyenne-Oklahoma Round Dance - Cheyenne Dave Group: Alfrich Heap Of Birds, John Washee, Chyenne Dave, Alberta Whiteskunk,...

21. Ponca Hethushka Dance - Chief Spotted Back Hamilton (Omaha )

22. Omaha Hethushka Dance - Chief Spotted Back Hamilton

23. Pawnee Hand Game Song - Lawrence Good Fox, Lawrence Murie

24. Arikara-'We're In This World A Short Time' - Arikara Singers Of Parshall, North Dakota: Ralph Wells, Jr., Ralph Wells III, Emanuel Wells,...

25. Arikara-Bloody Knife's Warrior Song - Arikara Singers Of Parshall, North Dakota: Ralph Wells, Jr., Ralph Wells III, Emanuel Wells,...

26. Dakota/Assiniboine Montana Grass Dance Song - Ft. Peck Sioux Singers

27. Northern Cheyenne Sun Dance Song - Phillip Whiteman, Tom Wooden Legs, Gilbert White Dirt, Harvey Whitman, Ross Teeth,...

28. Northern Arapaho Fast Wolf Dance - Otto Hungary, White O. Goggles, Helen Crispin, Francis Goggles, Rose Moss

29. Crow Owl Dance Song - Donald Deer Nose

30. Lakota Love Song - Oglala Sioux Singers: William Horncloud, Ben Sitting Up, Frank Afraid Of Horses

Review: Lovéren, David Arkenstone & Charlee Brooks

Three-time Grammy nominated recording artist David Arkenstone has collaborated with the enchanting and magical, operatically gifted vocalist and composer Charlee Brooks to create the delightful symphonic and world music album -  Lovéren.  Based on a love story of mermaids, Lovéren is an invitation to the underwater world. The story of Lovéren is an odyssey of love, romance and passion set in the magical world of mermaids. The CD includes a beautiful 16-page booklet that includes the stunning and rich artwork that combines photography into the layout.

Brooks contributes to the album in many ways, sharing both her vocals as well as her instrumental talents.  She created an original mermaid language called Mermish, which gives the music an exoticambience and authentic, mysterious and evocative vibe.  Charlee's voice, coupled with the other-worldly language, Mermish brings rich and detailed visions to mind.  I would love to see a motion picture created about the story of Loveren, using this music ...


Loveren is an invitation, an initiation into a special world that only a few ever get to taste ... a lovely sonic epic adventure.  The music is beautiful, putting me in the mood for love.  Highly recommended!!! 

For more information, please visit David Arkenstone. 

Review: Ashana

Music is a blessing, a prayer, and a healing when it comes deeply from the heart,” says Ashana. “Music can transport us, lift us to the place where we gently let go and open to receive, reflect and remember the Love we truly Are. And as we begin to rest in this Love, our world is transformed. We see beauty in everything. And Heaven becomes fully present in every moment, right here on Earth.”

My goodness, this woman is talented ... and beautiful.  Her celestial, angelic music penetrates deep, with a healing resonance and heart opening frequency.  Ashana’s original sound is the forefront of an entirely new genre of healing music and she is considered one of the best healing musicians and new age artists of our time.  Her singing bowls have a voice and personality ... perhaps even their own spirits.

Ashana's ethereal voice inspires me to live in my highest place and nurture my true potential. Her music is spiritually uplifting, healing and brings me to great inner peace and happiness.

I hope I can see Ashana at some time in concert.  She is amazing live.  Check out the videos below. 

For more information, please visit Ashana.

The RISE Against Monsanto

Preggie Pops

I have a really great product to share today that I am really excited about.  Those of you are are pregnant or suffer from queasiness, car sickness, etc. are going to want to hear about this.  Three Lollies is a company that specialize in natural remedy products for nausea.  The products are called Preggie Pops, which are specially developed for pregnant woman and Queasy Pops.  Developed by health care professionals and made with natural pharmacologic agents, both Queasy Pops and Preggie Pops have been tested again and again by nausea sufferers.

Completely drug fee and all natural Preggie Pops and Queasy Pops are flavorful and delicious.  They come in a variety of flavors to choose from.  Lucky for me I received a large variety of Three Lollies nausea products to share.  I wanted to really get a good idea of what everyone in my circle thought about these.  These simple, natural herbal formulas makes life a little easier during nauseous times.  We recently went on a short trip with some friends of ours, including a pregnant woman and many people, myself included who normally have bout's of car sickness.  The verdict ... these are awesome.  Everyone agrees ... especially my beautiful, pregnant friend.  She loves them and was especially thankful to have them while on the road.  We all have our favorite flavors.  Mine is the ginger, color and raspberry!  WE ALL LOVE THESE LOLLIES - A Brilliant idea.

Highly Recommended!!!

Queasy Pops and Preggie Pops are available as either drops or pops, which are lollies on a stick.  They retail for $3.95-$5.50 per container.  They have a large variety of flavors to choose from, along with an organic variety, vitamin infused and especially for kids.  Please visit Three Lollies for more information. 

Review: Bellydance with Mayte - DVD

Actress, singer, dancer and bellydance guru, Mayte Garcia shares her hip-shakin' bellydancing moves in this well-made instructional dvd for beginners ... Bellydance with Mayte - Hot moves and routines for the total beginner.  She is best known as the former wife of pop star Prince and has also dated the drummer for Motley Crue, Tommy Lee.  From 1992 to 1996, Mayte was the featured dancer and also background singer touring with international megastar, Prince. A second generation bellydancer, Mayte became one of the world’s youngest professional bellydancers, appearing on the popular TV show “That’s Incredible” at the age of eight. If you are a beginner Belly Dancer looking for some good instruction this DVD is incredible.  I wish I had it along time ago.  Mayte is an absolutely wonderful instructor.  She really explains the moves and looks so beautiful doing so.  Her style and grace are inspiring.  The DVD is a lot of fun and challenging enough to learn, yet simple enough to not lose interest of focus.  

To learn more, or to order please visit Bellydance.com.

Review: Move - Non-Stop Arabian Remixes

DJ Nader, one of today's hottest DJs, offers techno Bellydancing music with Move Non-Stop Arabian Remixes CD.  Move is an invigorating musical explosion with non-stop intensity ... sexy, fun and exciting.

This album is sure to enliven any atmosphere.  Classic Arabian sounds fused with chill-out grooves, brilliantly mixed into a hip-shakin' , exotic masterpiece.  DJ Nader is world renowned as a pioneer in mixing dance beats with captivating Middle Eastern grooves. He tours the world spinning at high profile parties and events.

For more information or to order, please visit bellydance.com.

Track Listing
 1. Shisha - Naked Rhythm
2. Ansak - Roger Abboud
3. Away - Louie Habibi
4. Moon Over Ala Nar - Naked Rhythm
5. Midnight Trance - Drumspyder
6. Jil Al Hadis - Mosavo
7. Sandstorm - Naked Rhythm
8. Cairo Storm - Naked Rhythm
9. Shuruk - Roger Abboud
10. Move Your Belly - Louie Habibi
11. Zeina - Petrol Bomb Samosa
12. Mazamir - Bodyshock
13. Baladi Girl - Roger Abboud
14. Ramallah - Drumspyder

Review - Awakening Shakti: The Transformative Power of the Goddesses of Yoga

"Some of these goddesses are warriors; others are lovers. Some have maternal energy; others are dedicated to opening you to mystical realms. Each one of them can be a guide into the deepest realms of the soul and a teacher of the skills of living as an empowered feminine lover of life."- Sally Kempton

Awakening Shakti: The Transformative Power of the Goddesses of Yoga 

Sally Kempton is the author of the popular Yoga Journal column "Wisdom."  She teaches workshops and retreats internationally and has spent more than 40 years practicing, studying, and teaching meditation and spiritual philosophy.  Awakening Shakti is a delicious and important contribution to the return of the Divine Feminine, an essential movement of our time, awakening the Goddess and bringing her to life in her many important forms.  If you are interested in women's spirituality or personal development, this book will resonate with you. It centers around the major female deities of Hinduism - Durga, Lakshmi, Kali, Parvati, Saraswati, Sita, Dhumavati and Lalita, among many.  Beautiful meditations, visualizations, mantras and teachings, Awakening Shakti provides a practical guide for activating the currents of the divine feminine in every aspect of your life.  Well-researched and well-written, the book also contains many personal stories that are heart touching and soul stirring.  A great read!!!

 

I cannot recommend this book enough.

For more information, or to order please visit Sounds True.

Summer Of Peace!

For More Information, please visit Summer Of Peace!

Review: Red Hot and Holy A Heretic’s Love Story, Sera Beak

Sera Beaks' Red Hot and Holy A Heretic’s Love Story is unlike anything I have ever read before.  It has poetry, humor, intelligence, creativity and a lot of divine feminine.  This is a chronicle, a story about Sera's mystical journey.  It is a rare glimpse into the author's truth, her core, her essence with the hopes that her honesty will awaken something deep inside of the reader ... invoking the person truth inside of us.  This book is wild, raw, erotic and intense ... I LOVE IT!!! 

  

Her courage in bringing such an intimate look into a rich and personal experience is one of great reward.  Like all true mystics, Beaks' words compel us to fearlessly confront whatever stands in the way of our awakening, of the heart-opening process of mystical realization.  

Bold, daring, wild and so original, I have read it again and again ... remarkable!  This is what true goddess invocation is all about ... 

For more information, please visit Sounds True!

The Angels of Atlantis by Stewart Pearce

Stewart Pearce is an angelic facilitator, a sound healer and an internationally renowned voice coach who has held positions at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre and the Drama Centre of London. He is the author of The Alchemy of Voice and The Heart's Note.

Based on the teachings of the 12 archangels of Atlantis, The Angels Of Atlanta sreveals how to become aligned with their power and wisdom.  Superbly written, this book is transformational.  This becomes quite evident once you read a chapter.  Included in the book are a series of exercises that awaken the archetypal guidance of each incredible force.  Filled to brim with wisdom, with the most inspiring depictions of the twelve angels. Each chapter is devoted to an angel with references to Egypt/Atlantis and how people worked with the angels then, creating a deep connection to the ancient realm of Atlantis.  Completely amazing!!!

For more information, please visit Findhorn Press.

Angel Heart Sigils

This interesting deck is a must-have for the collector, but may be a little too advanced or complex for those new to card oracles.  This set provided the opportunity to connect to the ancient realm of Atlantis. I find them to be quite unique, unlike any I have ever seen before ... a good thing in this case.  The deck was inspired and guided by the 12 archangels of Atlantis and the cards in this collection present their heart sigils.  Sigils are seals, just like a talisman.  The seals bring about great magic.  The heart sigil cards celebrate embracing the power of love and the wholeness of a life touched by the angels’ beauty and grace. The images are colorful and the card beautifully composed.   

For more information, please visit Findhorn Press.

Fully Fertile: A 12-Week Plan for Optimal Fertility (2nd ed.) by Quinn, Heller and Bussell

Fully Fertile a lovely book that teaches about relaxation, nutrition, exercise, prayer, lowering stress and much more all geared toward increasing fertility.  I love this book.  It has been quite helpful in my circle and I recommend it to anyone who is on the fertility journey.  I think it's wonderful for any woman wanting to improve her health and lower stress while trying to conceive. After about a week on this program I felt more relaxed and am much better able to curb feelings of frustration and anxiety.  It also helped me to increase my energy and joy for life.  I have read several books on fertility but this book proved to be the most thorough and holistic.  The wisdom in the book will assist in leading a healthy lifestyle, so no matter what happens you are sure to win reading it. I find Fully Fertile to be a warm and reassuring read - highly recommended!

For more information, please visit Findhorn Press.

Mothering and Daughtering Keeping Your Bond Strong Through the Teen Years

From Sounds True, Mothering and Daughtering, Keeping Your Bond Strong Through the Teen Years by Sil Reynolds & Eliza Reynolds is a book that I wish I had growing up.  It helps to nurture a strong and meaningful bond that will last a lifetime.  This book is quite unique and addresses many different hard-to-handle issues that come up.  Helping to form an alliance, a friendship between mother and daughter, the book itself is like a doorway that takes you to a place of peace and harmony.  


For more information, please visit Sounds True.

Review: Cinderella’s Organic Housekeeping

Years ago I worked as a Nannie/ Housekeeper to keep my life up and running, while figuring out who I was and who I wanted to be.  Just like Cinders herself, I too found solace and comfort with the animals and in the honest mindfulness of the chores.  The laundry was a place of peace, scrubbing the floors felt like humble service, yet the chemicals that I was using to kill the "bad bugs" never quite resonated with me.  These harsh chemicals I now rarely use ... my home is a mostly, green zone. ... lemons are quite welcome, vinegar - come on in and baking soda and abrasive sponges ... well, you two take the lead and manage this crew.  Okay, so I certainly have learned a thing or two and my prince charming likes what he sees.

A natural products advocate, I was really excited when I heard about a company that offers safe, fair trade, organic, eco-friendly cleaning products, all of which are packaged in glass called Cinderella’s Organic Housekeeping.  Cinderella’s is proud to offer consumers the first glass spray bottle in the cleaning industry complimented by glass concentrate refill bottles.  I quickly shot them an email and they sent me some products.

 Cinderella’s Organic Housekeeping, a family company, began in beautiful Nelson, British Columbia, Canada with a dream ... safe cleaning products, packaged in glass, that work wonderfully with ingredients that even-a-baby-can-use.  They certainly have done just that.

When my package arrived I was so excited, as I usually am when a product comes my way to review, but this time it was different.  There is a special kind of aura that surrounds this company and these products and I noticed it right away.  The second thing I noticed, after the seemingly magical frequency was the scent ... hhmmm mmmmm yummmmm!!!!  Yes, that good, especially the lavender.

I received the unscented, orange and lavender versions of the Cinderella’s All-Purpose cleaners.  Cinderella’s All-Purpose cleaners consist of ingredients you may have eaten at one time or another in your life. Ingredients like Organic Jojoba Oil, Organic Hemp Oil, Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Citric Acid, Vitamin E and Essential Oil.   I took my time with them, really giving them a good reviewing.  My husband loves (and I mean loves) this stuff - LOVES IT and I agree.  Do you ever wash your counters in fear????  I certainly have, unsure if any of those chemicals will soon find there way into my body, or my husbands' and children.  The Cinderella’s All-Purpose cleaners are out of this world ... I cannot say enough good things about them.  The lavender is by far my favorite, but the orange is nice too.  If unscented suits your needs you will be a happy camper too.  You can use this stuff for everything from the household duties, to cleaning your dog and wash your fruits and veggies.  It works well as a spot cleaner, in your steam cleaner, on the greasiest, hard-to-clean places in your home or camper any place else that is dirty.  You can even spray it in the air as an air freshener.  This is the best cleaner I have ever used.  My husband said it first and everyone one else I share it with does too.  It is reasonably priced, cheaper than store brands if you buy it in concentrated bottles and completely wonderful.

Hurray, now the kids can help me clean too!!!

For more information or to order, please visit Cinderella’s Organic Housekeeping.

Review: Play-Day Sunscreen SPF-50

The Play-Day Sunscreen SPF-50 is for broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection.  It has a nice scent and is lightweight and non-oily.  The is a water resistant, cruelty-free, pediatrician-tested, hypoallergenic baby sunscreen fortified with aloe and calendula.  I love this sunscreen because one tube is all I need for the entire family.  My husband uses this stuff all the time so that the top of his head does not burn.  Really good stuff.  It has never had a never had a negative reaction on any of us and works well as a sunscreen.  It does need to be reapplied often, especially at the beach.  You can also use it on your face, good news, especially if you are sensitive to products on your skin like many people. 

 For more info, visit Noodle & Boo.

Coeur d'Esprit Natural Perfumes

™

I found a lovely shop, located in the French Quarter, in the heart of Coquitlam, BC, Canada (near Vancouver) that has a nice selection of natural perfumes.  A natural perfume connoisseur, I am always on the look-out for the brightest and the best.  Well, Coeur d'Esprit Natural Perfumes certainly has my personal seal of approval. 

Natural perfumes are fragrances made from natural ingredients such as essential oils and absolutes.  Some incorporate handcrafted tinctures of flowers, herbs and spices created by the perfumer.  The materials used to create these are expensive and at times, hard to source.  The creations at Coeur d'Esprit come from the brilliant mind, heart and imagination of international natural perfumer and teacher, Lyn Ayre, INP, Ph.D. 
Every perfume she creates is infused with the ancient wisdom of the Tibetan singing bowls and crystals and surrounded by color energy.

“I wish that life

should not be cheap, but sacred,

I wish the days to be as centuries,

loaded, fragrant.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

 

(This quote is from the Coeur d'Esprit website ... Yes, I certainly have to agree with Mr Emerson here)

It has been pure joy testing out some delightful scents from Coeur d'Esprit.  I have tasted 8 divine scents - Citrance, Pagoda Peace, Chez Noir, Tantric Notions, Evening Romance, Inspiration from the Sea, Wonder and Inspired.  Each has its own voice ... unique, with a personality and energy of its own.  My personal favorites of the eight are Citrance, Chez Noir and Evening Romance ... all for personal reasons really (aahhmm, my husband likes them).  

All the scents from Coeur d'Esprit have a clean, soft and feminine scent.  Some are certainly a little more wild then others, but nothing over-the-top.  Lyn Ayre has won a lot of awards for her perfumes and it is really easy to see why when you use them.  The last long on the skin, never-ever have a negative reaction on my skin and smell delicious, invoking all sorts of emotions ... from myself and those who get close.  

The company makes wise choices and is therefor blessed with good karma.  These good vibes are infused in their perfumes.  Recommended!

For more information, please visit Coeur d'Esprit Natural Perfumes.

Review: Aveeno Clear Comlpexion pads and moisturizer

As a teenager I certainly had my fair share of skin troubles.  My acne was not horrible, yet it plagued me with its imperfection.  The one thing that I have looked forward with my aging skin is a lack of worry about breaking out.  Well, unfortunately my skin still thinks it is young.  Certainly this has its advantages, then again it breaks out really easy.  My acne prone skin really needs a lot of tender loving care, so when I saw that Aveeno has a tender loving clear complexion line I new that I must try it.  I tried 2 products from the clear complexion line, the daily cleansing pads and the daily moisturizer. 

AVEENO® CLEAR COMPLEXION Daily Cleansing Pads

 I expected these cleansing pads to be similar to Oxy or Stridax pads, only a little healthier.  They are not anything like these at all.  I was pleasantly surprised by these pads.  Rather than being your typical acne cleansing pads, these are a pre-soaked acne fighting, salicylic acid blemish treatment.  The pads gently exfoliate with moisture-rich soy extracts, so they never over dry my skin.  Traditional Chinese medicine has used soy for thousands of years to reduce the appearance of blotchiness and discoloration.  My body reacts really well to natural ingredients.  The pads themselves are really nice, with a soft side and an abrasive side for exfoliation.  I can use one pad twice.  These pads are awesome!  What a great idea.  They are perfect for traveling and especially useful for those who need to exfoliate often, like myself.  They certainly did clear up my complexion.  5 Stars!!!

AVEENO® CLEAR COMPLEXION Daily Moisturizer

This is a great oil-free face moisturizer that is hypoallergenic and noncomedogenic.  It contains soy and salicylic acid to help clear up blemishes and improve the health of your complexion.  I love this daily moisturizer.  It has a pleasant scent, makes my skin look great and works well day and night.  5 Starts!!!

To learn more about Aveeno and Aveeno products, please visit them online.

Reviews: Vapour Organic Beauty

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I am in love with Vapour Organic Beauty. This is one of the most trust-worthy companies that I have come across.  The products are unmatched.  The website has tips and tricks for getting a desired look with the unique formulas of Vapour which is a big plus, and if you are still needing guidance there awesome customer service is sure to help.  This brand is one of a kind.  They are friends of the earth, humanity, animals and the bees.  They really care!!!

Why I Love Vapour Organic Beauty

• Website has lots of education and guidance, including videos and personalized expert advise
• 100% natural -  70% Certified Organic Ingredients & 30% vitamins and minerals
• Animal friendly
• Chemical free
• Paraben free
• No nano particles
• Inner and outer packaging recyclable
• Made with wind power
• Made with biodegradable ingredients
• Unique formulas, unlike any other brand on the market
• Light reflection technology
• Lover & protectors of the bees
• Signed the Campaign for safe cosmetics
• Sustainable
• High Quality
• Support non profits, including Breast Cancer Research
• Award-winning
• Used and loved by celebrities
• Large selection of products and color options
• Risk free guarantee
• Reasonable priced
• Long shelf life, most are shelf stable for a minimum of two years
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding friendly 

 Elixir Plumping Lip Gloss

I cannot get enough pout, so naturally plumping them up a bit pulled me in like a hypnotic stare.  Elixir Plumping Gloss is a clean gloss, free of dangerous chemicals.  Hydrating botanicals and organic plumping liposomes lock in maximum moisture for ultra hydrated, voluptuous lips.  

This gloss gives me lips a nice shine, but in all truth if it plumped them up, it was only slightly.  I really did not notice any change in size.  It does make my lips look very nice though, especially because of the smile I wear with it on knowing that I am not poisoning myself to wear it.  Elixir’s pure plant ingredients are vacuum processed, without chemicals, to produce a superior lip gloss.  I really like, although I do wish it plumped them up a little more.  I found it to work much better when the weather is warmer for some reason.

Mesmerize Eyeliner

I must admit, I am more of a liquid eye liner kind of gal.  I was pleasantly surprised by the performance of this liner ... and although it created a different look than I normally wear (with the liquid), I am happy with the results.  Trying new things is good! I created a sexy, smoky, seductive cat eye look that received many compliments.  This is one of the best non-liquid eyeliners that I have ever used.  This lustrous, organic eyeliner glides on effortlessly.  A blending tool  is included on the reverse side of the liner.  Not only does it work well, it also stays on all day without smearing.

Best of all this liner is nourishing for the lids, as it is made with loving ingredients. Most eyeliners contain unhealthy ingredients that actually age the skin around the eyes, not this one.  Create a gorgeous look, Vapour Style!!!

I Love it & Highly Recommend it!

Vapour Organic Beauty products  are three stars above the best ... a natural beauty trump card!  

For more information 

please visit http://www.vapourbeauty.com

Review: Cassandra's Angel

Cassandra has good intentions, but no matter what she does someone has a problem with it.  Well-meaning, Cassandra desires to please everyone, yet somehow manages to be on everyone's not good enough list.  Cassandra does not know it, but she is a beautiful, creative delightful and smart girl whose natural sense of wonder and innocence keeps her searching for beliefs about herself that she accepts.  

Cassandra's Angel is a treasure, sure to brighten the light within everyone who really listens.  Her angel gives good advice, and shares a secret with Cassandra that changes the way she sees things ... and the way that I do to.

Simply Lovely ...

For more information, or to order please visit Illumination Arts.

Review: Dreams To Grow On

HHhhhmmm, What will I be when I grow up?  That is the question the young girl in this story is trying to answer.  There are so many possibilities ... and they are truly endless!  As a professional life coach, this is something that I say to my clients often, as well as to my own family. 

With lyrical verses and colorful artwork, Dreams To Grow On, teaches the importance of the imagination and of having dreams ... and also of wonder.

Engaging and inspiring ... 

As with all books from Illumination Arts, this would make a great gift.  For more information, or to order, please visit Illumination Arts.

Review: One Smile

Have you have received a smile that lit up your day, changing your frequency immediately?  Or maybe you have given a smile and intuitively knew that it brightened up someone???  A smile is such a gift, and if it is a genuine smile you are sure to feel good wearing one.  

One Smile is about a lovely little girl whose gorgeous expression of joy goes full circle, as the energy she sends out with her beautiful smile, finds its way back to her. 

This book is so important because it teaches children (and adults) the value of a simple smile ... an important reminder of the personal power that is innate within us all.

Winner of the Benjamin Franklin Award for Best Children’s Book, One Smile was also a finalist for the Coalition of Visionary Resources Best Children’s Book Award.  Simply delightful!

For more information, or to order please visit Illumination Arts.