DAILY WORKOUT ROUTINES

Working out is one of those necessary evils. As much as I would rather sleep in and not work out,  I love the results and how it boosts my mood and energy level.  So I've decided to buckle down and make working out a daily priority.

The start of my routine begins with a morning stretch. I've been practicing yoga inconsistently for around 5 yrs and I found this awesome sequence that I've been loving. It really helps work out all the kinks and prepares me for the hard work ahead.  

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After loosening up with this yoga sequence I move on to a circuit workout for cardio.  I'd love to be able to do this entire sequence but I'm just starting out so I'm at the half way point before I need to stop.  I find it hard to get motivated to work out so I've discovered that gym memberships just wont work for me.  Eventually I stop wanting to drive to the gym, wait for machines, etc.....So being able to work out at home is key.

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[Photo Credit]

Strength training with weights is also important and I alternate cardio days with weight lifting routines...but that's a post for another day.

• What are your favorite ways to workout from home? Workout DVDs? Walking outside? Circuits?
• What websites are your go-to websites for quality at-home workouts?

ORGANIC SEA SALT SPRAY & DIY RECIPE

When I was a kid I loved going to the beach, getting in the water and swimming in the waves.  I also loved how my hair had awesome beachy waves when I got out of the water!  As an adult, I still love the beachy wavy hair look and I want to share with you a product that I use and absolutely LOVE. John Masters Sea Mist Sea Salt Spray

I try to only use all natural, chemical free, organic face and body products whenever possible and I use this one almost daily!  My hair is now super thick and very straight so  I primarily use this spray to give my volume and that extra touch of texture necessary for styling.   I've tried other sea salt sprays but I keep coming back to this one because it has organic lavender in it which is great for protecting your hair from the dryness salt gives you.  Also, I try to only wash my hair every other day, so on the second day I just add a few spritz of my sea salt spray to absorb any excess oil and I'm good to go.

 

 Now if your anything like me, your thinking "...hmmm salt, lavender and water, I can do that!" Being the crafter, creater and penny pincher that I am, I often make my own sea salt spray cause it's sooo easy! Here's all you need:

 SEA SALT SPRAY RECIPE
♥ 1 clean spray bottle. 8 fl. oz. to 10 fl. oz.
♥ 8 fl. oz. of distilled or filtered
♥ 1 tsp. finely ground sea salt.

♥ 3-5 drops of essential oils: I used lavender to condition and add shine, however other oils have several wonderful benefits. Ylang ylang works great for sensitive skin and problem scalps. Rosemary is great to help deepen the color of brunette's hair and chamomile brightens blonds. Use 3-5 drops.Tea Tree Oil is great for sensitive and oily scalps. If you have oilier hair, this is the great because it won't make your hair oilier or weigh it down. Use 3-5 drops.
♥You can add a little more sea salt if you have oilier/thicker hair. However, the more salt you use, the more it will dry out your hair. BUT the more you use, the "beachier" your hair will look.  Only add 1/4 tsp at a time until you reach the desired level. 

♥ Lastly, make sure to take notes so you know how much to add when you want to make more!

My favorite store for herbs is my local organic health food market, however, if I need something online or in bulk, I go to Mountain Rose Herbs, I also use Celtic Sea Salt Brand because of the purity of there product.  Not just for cooking!

I hope you all enjoy this post, show me your beachy waves and share below what oils and scents you add to your own recipes!!

♥ Carol

CHOCOLATE PUDDING RAW VEGAN STYLE

This is my favorite chocolate pudding recipe!  Super rich, creamy, decadent! This chocolate bliss is so good it's hard to believe that its made with avocado!!  Say what!?  Yep, what makes this dessert so rich and creamy is the beautiful buttery avocado.  When flavored with chocolate cocoa the pudding comes to fruition (no pun intended). To keep this dessert as whole food as possible I've sweetened it with homemade date paste and vanilla.

Steps:
1. Scoop out 2 medium avocados

2. Add your cocoa powder, date paste* and vanilla extract

3. Place all ingredients into your food processor until its smooth and creamy and your done!

It's that easy!!  Awesome all on its own but I love to top with fresh strawberries or sprinkle with a touch of sea salt.  Your entire family will love this and your kids wont even know that its good for them ; )  

Recipe:
2 medium avocados
5 Tbsp cocoa powder
1 Tbsp date paste (or more if you like things sweeter)
1 tsp pure vanilla extract or 1 whole vanilla bean

*Date Paste
1 Cup pitted dates
1/2 Cup filtered water

Blend in food processor until completely smooth

♥ JOHN MASTERS ORGANICS ♥

Best Conditioner Ever!!

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