Winners!

Here are the most recent giveaway winners:

BURP Bamboo washcloth set - #155 - Sodahoney

Anatomy Naturals $15 GC - #32 - Jenn S.

Congrats to you both! Enjoy your prizes!
If you haven't already, enter to win the great low entry giveaways going on right now!

Friday Fun - Fitness Edition

Living healthy natural lives is not always the easiest thing, which is why I started my blog - to inspire and help others live their best life healthfully and naturally. I want to give you examples of how I am doing it through weekly updates, and I am hoping some of you will be willing to share your thoughts and ideas too.
So, here we go! I hope this helps and inspires all of you! This week's is the Fitness Edition for our Fall Fitness Event going on right now.

In my life this week...

Lots. I kicked off the week by doing some nutrition presentations for my fitness clients. Then, I started registering them for the Biggest Loser - Body Fat Edition at my fitness classes. It is really exciting to see everyone get pumped up for getting healthy!


I am inspired by...

the trainers on The Biggest Loser tv show. I loved Jillian, who is now gone. I thought I was going to skip this season, but they got me hooked again. I like how the trainers can get away saying whatever they want and pushing their teams as hard as they want. That is not how it goes in the real world. But it is inspiring to me!


My favorite thing this week was...

seeing the look on my fitness clients faces as they literally worked their butts off. There was a look of determination and heart on a few of the ladies this morning, and it was spine-tingling great!


What's working/not working for me..

Working - hosting my own Biggest Loser competition. It is getting everyone all psyched up!
Not working - I find myself majorly struggling with emotional eating this week. Ughh!!! I hate the feeling of regret.



Questions/thoughts I have...

What is the best way to de-stress?


Things I'm working on right now...

controlling my emotional eating, dealing with stress in a healthy way


I'm reading...

Turbocharged, which I will be reviewing soon


I'm cooking...

Pumpkin, pumpkin, pumpkin.  I will be posting about that soon too.


I'm grateful for...

friends!! They lift you up when they don't even know it. Plus, they can be great workout buddies, so you can motivate each other.


A photo, video, link, or quote to share...

Quote - Nothing is achieved by people who give up!!

Please email me if you would like to be interviewed in the upcoming weeks. I would love to learn from you all! Have a great weekend!
Cara

ActivewearUSA Review and Giveaway

Who doesn't love to look great when they are exercising? I think that great activewear helps you feel confident while working out. Plus, it is a great idea to reward yourself for hitting goals with your favorite fitness clothing instead of an unhealthy treat.

One of my new favorite places to shop online for fitness clothing is ActivewearUSA. ActivewearUSA was founded with the goal of providing the best yoga activewear and fitness clothing on the market, to encourage women to look and feel their best while enhancing their life through fitness.

They claim that they have the greatest selection of activewear on the planet, and after browsing their site, I have to agree. I found some of my favorite brands such as Alo and MPG Sport. I also found some new brands that I love.

I received a really cute sports bra, and I love it! Did you know that 73% of women who exercise regularly don't wear a sports bra? Why is that? Trust me, ladies, you need and want that support! ActivewearUSA offers a ton of cute and effective sports bras, including shock absorber sports bras. Pretty cool, right?
So, why should you choose to shop at ActivewearUSA? I think two things that set ActivewearUSA apart from other online fitness wear sites are:
1. They have such a wide variety!!
2. They have awesome customer service.

They really pride themselves on offering helpful, personal service. In fact, they do their utmost to get every order out the same day, they will special order any item from the brands they carry that they don't have in at no additional cost, and deliver it for free any where in the USA. I personally had a great experience with them, and I appreciate their great service!

I highly recommend that you head over to ActivewearUSA, browse the awesome selection, and experience their great customer service for yourself.

Wait a minute. I am not done yet. I have a great giveaway to share with you!!

(1) lucky reader of mine is going to win (1) item from ActivewearUSA of their choosing, priced anywhere from $40-$100!!!

Here is how to enter this great giveaway:

Complete the mandatory entry below!

**Become a public follower of Your World: Healthy and Natural on my right sidebar and tell me you did so in a comment.

For more entries:

Tell us what item you would choose if you won this awesome giveaway! (1 entry)

Like ActivewearUSA on Facebook. (1 entry)

Post on your Facebook page about this giveaway. Share the link in your entry.(1 entry)


Subscribe to Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it. (1 entry)


Vote for Your World: Healthy and Natural on Top Mommy Blogs or We're on the Fence. (1 entry per vote/day and copy the link back in your comment for it to be valid)


Blog about this giveaway and link back to this post.(2 entries)


Follow @carathenatural on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway.(1 entry)


Like Your World: Healthy and Natural on Facebook.(2 entries)

Comment on any of my posts about healthy and natural living that you have not commented on before. I love to hear your thoughts!! (1 entry)

The deadline for this giveaway is October 14th at 11:59 pm EST, at which time a winner will be randomely chosen. Make sure that you include your email in your comments because if I can't get a hold of you, you can't win.

 

 * ActivewearUSA provided me product to review, and I was under no obligation to write this post. Nor was I under any obligation to sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product.*

FirstFitness Review

I am always saying to my clients, "What you put in your body will directly relate to what your body can do." If you want to feel great and get fit, you have to take a look at what you are nourishing your body with.

FirstFitness Nutrition, has great products to help you nourish your body. Their goal is to transform lives worldwide while providing high quality nutritional products in areas such as weight loss, herbal cleansing, energy and fitness and wellness.

The two products that caught my eye were Zavita and Fit To a Tea!


Zavita is an antioxidant and mineral rich liquid herbal supplement made from seven powerful, healing botanical plants from the Amazon that help strengthen the immune system, reduce pain and inflammation, support healthy joint function, improve mental clarity and enhance deep, restful, sleep.

When I was reading the ingredients of this tasty liquid out loud, my son was laughing his head off, because they sound so funny: Catuaba, Cha de bugre, Chuchuhuasi, Iporuru, Samambaia, just to name a few. As funny as they may sound to us, these rare botanicals have been used by the indigenous people and healers of the Amazon rainforest for centuries. And this isn't just hocus pocus. The health benefits of the indigenous plants that form Zavita have been documented in 350 published studies and 50 clinical trials on humans.

As I tried my first sip of Zavita, I braced myself for a mediciny taste, but it was surprisingly delicious - very fruity, but not too sweet. I haven't noticed any difference in my health yet, but then again, I am a very healthy person.


Fit to a Tea! is a non-caloric whole body detoxifying tea that uses a special blend of herbs designed to rejuvenate your body's systems and build its natural defenses. It supports your body's natural processes of detoxification and cleanses your system of waste. This tea is made from wonderful ingredients such as senna leaf, buckthorn bark, peppermint leaf, ginger root and more.

I have really come to enjoy a good tea, especially a detoxifying tea. Not only does it help me relax at the end of my long days, it helps my body get rid of harmful toxins that are ever-present in our world today. It is important to protect yourself from as many toxins as you can, and this tea will help you eliminate any toxins that do enter your body. The ingredients are effective, so please read and follow the directions carefully.

I urge you to learn more about these products and about FirstFitness. You can also order these products today!

*I was provided product to review, and I was under no obligation to review if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review in return for the free product.*

Storyland Yoga DVD for Kids Review and Giveaway

Sponsored by Tomoson.comMy son loves to work out with me, which I am very pleased about. One of the best ways to help your children stay active is to be an active role model. Since my son sees me working out and teaching classes daily, he wants to copy me. It is so cute! Besides being cute, it is great for his health.

When I saw the Storyland Yoga DVD, I knew it would be perfect for him. All he has ever known is adults exercising, so this yoga for kids program is great fun for him!

This kids yoga DVD is put out by Playful Planet, which is an awesome company set out to empower families to be healthy and live sustainably. I am more than happy to spread the word about them and their products, because my mission is right in line with theirs.

I was so excited to share Storyland Yoga, their award winning yoga DVD, with my son! He begged me and begged me to do it with him, so after it came in the mail, we stuck it in and started it up. To tell you the truth, I didn't expect it to be much more than a few yoga poses and silly kids. I used to teach children's yoga, and I know how short kids' attention spans can be.

Storyland Yoga surprised me. My son and I participated in the Condor Trek program first, and it kept him involved and intrigued throughout the whole 23 minutes. I love that children can benefit both physically from the yoga moves and mentally as they learn about animals and our planet in an eco-conscious way. By the end of the Condor Trek program, my son was begging to do the next program too. I don't allow him to watch TV normally, so I limited it to one program at a time.

A few days later, I was equally delighted to watch my son get so involved with the story and moves that came with the next program, Save the Whale. In fact, it resonated so deeply with my son that he continued asking me questions about saving the whale long after the program was over.

I give this kids yoga DVD a double thumbs up! It is a wonderful way to be active with your children, while teaching them important lessons about taking care of our planet. The instructor was friendly, enthusiastic and the program flowed nicely and made a big impact.

View the trailer, then get your own copy of this program for your family! You can all stay active together!

Ready for some fun? How fun would it be to win your own copy of this great yoga DVD? Here's your chance!
We are giving away (1) Storyland Yoga DVD to (1) lucky reader!

Here is how to enter this great giveaway:

Complete the mandatory entry below!

**Become a public follower of Your World: Healthy and Natural on my right sidebar and tell me you did so in a comment.

For more entries:

Tell me your favorite way to stay active with your children, grandchildren, or nieces and nephews!(1 entry)

Follow Playful Planet on Twitter. (1 entry)

Like Playful Planet on Facebook. (1 entry)

Post on your Facebook page about this giveaway. Share the link in your entry.(1 entry)


Subscribe to Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it. (1 entry)


Vote for Your World: Healthy and Natural on Top Mommy Blogs or We're on the Fence. (1 entry per vote/day and copy the link back in your comment for it to be valid)


Blog about this giveaway and link back to this post.(2 entries)


Follow @carathenatural on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway.(1 entry)


Like Your World: Healthy and Natural on Facebook.(2 entries)

Comment on any of my posts about healthy and natural living that you have not commented on before. I love to hear your thoughts!! (1 entry)

The deadline for this giveaway is October 12th at 11:59 pm EST, at which time a winner will be randomely chosen. Make sure that you include your email in your comments because if I can't get a hold of you, you can't win.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

GelThotics Review and Discount

Since I am a fitness professional, I see many people who are suffering with foot pain that results from bad shoes or lots of physical activity. There have been many times that I have also had foot pain for those very reasons.

When I heard about GelThotics, I knew I had to try it out for myself. The GelThotics® SupportXGel Inserts combine optimal therapeutic support and shock absorption with performance enhancement to relieve and prevent foot pain. The unique cobra-shaped design fits under the existing insole and into the limited space of the shoe without changing the fit. GelThotics was created by Michael Kendall, who holds several patents for orthotic technology. Michael has studied foot dynamics for more than 30 years, with an emphasis on creating a shoe insert that would be effective in the reduction of foot pain, while fitting in more shoe types than any other orthotic.



I was excited to receive my GelThotics, and I immediately ran over and inserted them into my running shoes. It was quite simple to do. In fact, it was so simple, I thought I did something wrong. As I first stepped into my shoes, I thought it felt a bit funny, but as soon as I started walking, it felt great! One thing to note is that I do have to re-adjust my shoe insole every once in awhile, because it slides around a bit on the insert as I work out.

I love so many things about these inserts. It is important to note that these inserts help with heel, arch, and forefoot pain relief to provide one of the highest levels of shock reduction ever tested. I like knowing that my feet have the best protection available!

I also love the GelThotics incredible durability. They are made from the highest-grade pure medical silicone, which retains its support for years of use. It will not compress or wear down. And if you would like to clean it, you can just throw it in the dishwasher, washing machine or wipe it with a spray cleaner. It will renew the stickiness on the bottom every time you wash it.

And one of the best things about this insert is that you can use it in all types of shoes - from your athletic shoes to high heels to flats. Since it is so easy to insert, you can switch it among your shoes, if you wish.


GelThotics comes in five different sizes to meet your needs, and you can buy your own pair for $59.99. But, you can get your pair of GelThotics for 25% off using the code, runpromo.

If you suffer from Plantar Fasciitis or any other foot pain, I highly recommend GelThotics to you!
*I was provided product to review, and I was under no obligation to review if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review in return for the free product.*

Fall Fitness Blog Event!

I announced on our Facebook page last week that I was going to be starting a Fall Fitness Event this week, and now it is time for the fun to begin!

I know that cold weather drives us indoors. But, don't let that stop you from staying fit and healthy this fall and winter. I want to show you products and books that will support you in your journey to living your healthiest life!

I will be showcasing fitness clothing, books to help you understand weight loss, workout DVDs that you can do at home on those extra chilly days, and much more! Oh, and I didn't forget about sharing with all you, my wonderful readers. There will be some great giveaways too!

Are you excited now? It is time to take control of your health and get fit! Don't let a little frost get in the way.
And remember on those dreary days, "I am only one workout away from a good mood."

Alex+Von Review and Giveaway

This morning I ran an awesome fitness class and nutrition presentation with some amazing women from my community. Some of them are new clients of mine and some are older friends. Together, we create a lot of positive energy, support each other, and help each other by recommending great healthy products to each other. Women can do amazing things when we work together!

Those moments this morning made me think about a new company I was introduced to about a month ago by a fellow blogger friend - alex+von.

At alex+von, they are all about offering you well-crafted, socially responsible products from boutique brands recommended and trusted by women. I like that every purchase you make from alex+von supports a small business in the United States, many of whom are run by women. I love that many of the products they offer also help you live a healthier life!

I received two products from the brand 100% Pure. This brand formulates synthetic-, fragrance-, paraben-and toxin free beauty products. They use the most concentrated formulas possible without the use of water, thickeners, emulsifiers or any other fillers. Love that!

My all-time favorite product of theirs is the Organic Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream. The ingredients are all natural and organic, and it helps to reduce puffiness and dark circles under your eyes. Did I mention it smells heavenly? It is like having a shot of coffee for your eyes. When I get up in the morning for my 5:45 am fitness class, this eye cream is what gets me out of bed. The smell wakes me up, and it brightens up my eyes.

The other product I received was the Brightening Facial Scrub and Mask. It is a highly nourishing facial mask to rejuvenate your skin and the perfectly round jojoba beads act as a gentle exfoliant to buff away dullness, bumps and dead skin cells. Fruit acids brighten and give the complexion a healthy glow while fruit oils soften and moisturize. Again, the smell of this scrub and mask is so invigorating! I love that it exfoliates while nourishing your skin, without you having to sit around with a mask on your face for 20 minutes. I know I am only one minute away from fresh, rejuvinated skin. As a busy mother, that is all the time I have for beauty treatments, so it is perfect!

Besides these great products, alex+von also offers another organic skin care line - Suki, and an environmentally friendly line of children's wall decals - WeeDECOR.

Shop for any and all of these products today! Also, be sure to check out Marie Slayton's website. She is the independent consultant who recommended these products to me, and she is great to work with! On her website, you will find all the latest promotions, beauty tips and more! 

Today, we are offering (1) lucky winner (1) $25 Gift Certificate to alex+von to purchase whatever you would like! Have fun shopping!

Here is how to enter this great giveaway:

Complete the mandatory entry below!

**Become a public follower of Your World: Healthy and Natural on my right sidebar and tell me you did so in a comment.

For more entries:

Head on over to alex+von and tell me what products you are dying to try!(1 entry)

Follow Marie's page, Beautiful Besos, on Twitter. (1 entry)

Like Marie's page, AV by Marie, on Facebook. (1 entry)
Post on your Facebook page about this giveaway. Share the link in your entry.(1 entry)


Subscribe to Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it. (1 entry)


Vote for Your World: Healthy and Natural on Top Mommy Blogs or We're on the Fence. (1 entry per vote/day and copy the link back in your comment for it to be valid)


Blog about this giveaway and link back to this post.(2 entries)


Follow @carathenatural on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway.(1 entry)


Like Your World: Healthy and Natural on Facebook.(2 entries)

Comment on any of my posts about healthy and natural living that you have not commented on before. I love to hear your thoughts!! (1 entry)

The deadline for this giveaway is October 10th at 11:59 pm EST, at which time a winner will be randomely chosen. Make sure that you include your email in your comments because if I can't get a hold of you, you can't win.

 * Alex+von provided me product to review, and I was under no obligation to write this post. Nor was I under any obligation to sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product.*

Salt That is Good For You!

I am sure you have heard from many sources to stay away from salt! While I think too much of any one thing is trouble, I don't think all salt is bad for you.

Wright Salt from R-U-Ved Herbs Inc. is the perfect example. This salt is a unique, proprietary blend based on formulas shown in studies to support cardiovascular health. Yes, it supports heart health! In addition to  Sodium chloride (found in your table salt), crucial ingredients include Potassium chloride, Magnesium sulphate, Lysine hydrochloride, Silicon dioxide, Zinc chloride, Copper glycinate, Selenium and Potassium iodine.  You can read more about the this unique salt here.

I personally don't use much salt, because I like to use fresh herbs and spices. However, I do still sprinkle some salt over my popcorn and a few other dishes. I really enjoy this salt, and knowing it is good for my heart makes it that much tastier! I really appreciate that R-U-Ved is a company that cares about quality and purity. They maintain high quality control standards, and they use pure ingredients.

If you love your salt, I recommend switching out your table salt with Wright Salt.  You can buy it in two sizes, and right now they are both on sale for 25% off!

*I was provided product to review, and I was under no obligation to review if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review in return for the free product.*

Winners!

The latest winners are...

Fresh Baby Easy Baby Food Kit - #123 - Amy V

EcoSMART Pack - #22 - Allison Downes

Congrats, Ladies! Have you checked out all the other low entry giveaways going on right now?

Sock N Boots Book Review

As much as I love my son and want to think that he is just a well-behaved little angel, I know that he is not the best at sharing. Since his sister started crawling and was able to touch his toys, we have been trying to teach him how to share. So, when I was introduced to Sock N Boots stories, one of which is a story about sharing, I knew this would be a great way to teach my son.

Sock n Boots are best friends and the stars of the Sock n Boots book series. The Sock n Boots characters and stories were created by D.K. Smith to foster a love of reading at a young age and to teach young children valuable life lessons. The stories stimulate positive thinking, while building a bond between parents and children, as well as teachers and students.

The stories all start with a question, such as, "Do you know why you should share?" Then, throughout the book, a lesson is taught in a fun and enjoyable way that answers that question. The story ends with the question again, so your child can answer it on his own and you can discuss it further with them. This is a great way to help children learn and develop their own reasons for these important life lessons. I love how it fosters interactment between the parent and child!

My son loves books, and these are now his favorite stories. The characters are adorable, illustrations beautiful and detailed, and they keep my 3 year old son's attention very well. I also love these stories because they teach such good lessons and are a great way to foster interaction and meaningful conversations between me and him.

You can find all three stories shown above in a wonderful compilation book for only $11.00. These are a great gift for your own child or for other children you love! Also, find Sock N Boots on Facebook.

*I was provided product to review, and I was under no obligation to review if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review in return for the free product.*

TheraBreath Review and Giveaway

How many of you have bad breath? Do you even know how to check for bad breath? Did you know that the proper way to check for bad breath is to lick the back of your hand, let it dry, and then smell it? Try it. Now, if you have offensive breath, listen up, because I have a solution that actually works - TheraBreath.

TheraBreath was created by Dr. Harold Katz because he wanted to help his own daughter back in 1993. Now they are helping millions of people with their oral care, including those suffering from canker sores,  tonsil stones, bleeding gums and more.

The thing I like most about TheraBreath is that they don't just want to sell you a product, they want to help you fix your oral problems. They offer a lot of education to help you find the cause behind the oral problems you are having. For instance, did you know it is estimated that 75% of all prescription medications have dry mouth as a side effect? After studying the information I found and was given from TheraBreath, I learned that the root cause of bad breath is bacteria that breeds on and around your tongue, in your throat and often in the tonsils.

That is why they developed products to help attack these bacteria. I received their TheraBreath Toothpaste and Oral Rinse, which work together to keep bad breath away. I followed their suggested instructions for using the toothpaste and oral rinse, as well as flossing. I definitely noticed a difference in the way my mouth felt and tasted. I think it is quite effective if you follow the instructions. It did leave a little bit of a different taste in my mouth that I didn't always love. But, I will say, brushing with this toothpaste if you are having food cravings will probably make those cravings go away. It helps keep away bad breath and gives you the bonus of keeping cravings away.


I also want to mention that I really loved that this toothpaste and oral rinse do NOT contain alcohol, sodium lauryl sulfates and other icky ingredients that most other toothpastes and rinses contain. Plus, you can choose to get the toothpaste with or without fluoride, which I appreciated.

I also want to tell you about their new lozenges that help with dry mouth. Again, these are all natural and completely safe. I really liked their taste too. They are a mix of citrus and mint that I think is delicious. I don't normally use mints, and I don't have dry mouth, but I like using these lozenges after dinner.

You can find more information about bad breath and other oral concerns on Therabreath's website. You can also order your own products online or find them at stores near you such as: Walmart, Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aid, and more. Buy them for yourself or for someone else, because who wants bad breath?

We are giving (1) lucky reader the opportunity to have fresh breath with (1) TheraBreath Toothpaste and Oral Rinse.

Here is how to enter this great giveaway:

Complete the mandatory entry below!

**Become a public follower of Your World: Healthy and Natural on my right sidebar and tell me you did so in a comment.

For more entries:

Like TheraBreath on Facebook. (1 entry)

Follow TheraBreath on Twitter. (1 entry)

Visit their website and tell me something new you learned that I didn't already tell you in the review above. (1 entry)

Post on your Facebook page about this giveaway. Share the link in your entry.(1 entry)


Subscribe to Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it. (1 entry)


Vote for Your World: Healthy and Natural on Top Mommy Blogs or We're on the Fence. (1 entry per vote/day and copy the link back in your comment for it to be valid)


Blog about this giveaway and link back to this post.(2 entries)


Follow @carathenatural on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway.(1 entry)


Like Your World: Healthy and Natural on Facebook.(2 entries)

Comment on any of my posts about healthy and natural living that you have not commented on before. I love to hear your thoughts!! (1 entry)

The deadline for this giveaway is October 7th at 11:59 pm EST, at which time a winner will be randomely chosen. This giveaway is only open to US residents. Make sure that you include your email in your comments because if I can't get a hold of you, you can't win. If you have already won a TheraBreath prize, please refrain from entering so as to allow others a chance to try out products.

 * TheraBreath provided me product to review, and I was under no obligation to write this post. Nor was I under any obligation to sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product.*

Enerjii Bracelets Review

How do you combine fashion and feeling more energy and less pain? Enerjii's stylish jewelry!

Enerjii has an exclusive range of high technology energizing jewelry that contains Far infrared, negative ions and magnetic elements. These stylish products provide three forms of natural energy that may help make up for any deficiencies we may experience in our busy lifestyles.

If you are confused about what natural energy has anything to do with you, let me explain.
Energy is everywhere. It’s the force that forms the very fabric of the universe - from the largest galaxy to the smallest molecule. Atoms are pure energy and all seemingly ‘solid’ matter is simply swirling clusters of charged particles. All living things including your human body operate through a complex system of interconnected energy fields. It is believed that keeping this energy in balance is a vital key to maintaining good health and wellbeing.
That is why Enerjii's mission is "Enhancing people’s lives by creating a new class of alternative wellness products that brings the benefits of the earth’s natural remedies in the most convenient and stylish way possible."


I received a Women's Sportii bracelet and a Women's Synerjii bracelet. They contain three types of energies that are constantly releasing benefits.

The first type is Far Infrared, which is the invisible band of energy from the sun's spectrum that we feel as warmth. The Synerjii bracelet I received has little ceramic inserts that absorb energy from various sources and release it to help support circulation. If you look at the picture below of my bracelet, there are three sets of those little rectangular rollers. The white rollers are the Far Infrared ceramic inserts.  
The second type is the negative ions, that have an invigorating effect on the body. Negative ions are created naturally by the energy associated with several things in nature, such as waterfalls, lightning, and the rolling surf. The pink silicone part of the bracelet above and the black part of my Sportii bracelet below are infused with negative ion powder.

The last type is magnetic technology. All physical and mental activity is controlled by electromagnetic fields produced by ions within the body. Studies have found that applying a static magnetic field to the body can help dilate the blood vessels, support circulation and bring relief from pain. The use of magnet therapy has been well documented throughout history dating back thousands of years.

Many people say that this type of jewelry helps them with pain, fatigue, and more. I haven't had any joint pain since I have been wearing the bracelets. I work out a LOT, so I can use all the help I can get keeping pain away and helping keep me energized! I like how easy they are to clasp together, because with one hand, it can be tricky to put your own bracelets on. Even if you don't believe that the jewelry works, the bracelets are still stylish additions to your wardrobe.

If you are curious, read more information about the natural energies used in Enerjii jewelry. You can buy your own bracelets here. They also have men's and unisex jewelry in lots of different styles and colors.

*I was provided product to review, and I was under no obligation to review if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review in return for the free product.*

Navitas Naturals Power Snacks Review

I am a huge fan of Navitas Naturals. In fact, I am such a huge fan that when I received their products in February, I tried to get my local co-op to carry their products. Check out my Navitas Naturals review from the beginning of the year.

Now, they have come out with my new favorite product of theirs: Navitas Power Snacks Cacao-Goji and Citrus-Chia. I am a snacker. I think it is very important to feed your body every 3 hours to keep your metabolism high and fend off hunger attacks. It is hard to find a truly healthful snack, especially a raw and organic snack. These are the perfect solution!

These new bite-sized superfood snacks are perfectly in line with the rest of Navitas Naturals superfood products. They feature a combination of the most nutrient-dense superfoods and organic seeds, fruits and nuts. The first two varieties in the line, Cacao Goji and Citrus Chia, are flavorful grab-and-go functional foods that use only certified organic and raw ingredients.

Since these come in resealable pouches, you can just grab a couple of nuggets of yumminess and then save some for your next snack. There is no guilt involved! These snacks are 100% good for you. They contain no refined sugar, and are gluten-free and dairy-free. The Cacao Goji variety features superfoods maca, chia seeds, camu-camu and lucuma powder, as well as other wholesome raw foods such as date paste, raisins, sesame seeds and sunflower seeds. In addition to chia seeds, Citrus Chia Power Snack contains maca, camu-camu and lucuma superfoods, as well as apricot, raisin, cashew and coconut flakes. See what I mean? No guilt! I wasn't sure how good they would taste when I read the ingredient list, because I didn't even know what half of these ingredients were. But, after giving them a try, I am hooked! I am on my way to order some more after I finish this review.

I invite you to read more about the benefits of the powerful superfoods used in these Power Snacks. For 100% pure, organic, raw, kosher, vegan, gluten-free snacks, these are the best of the best! Plus, they are sustainably made using fair trade practices.

You can find Navitas Power Snacks and other Navitas products at a wide variety of retail locations including Whole Foods Markets, Wegmans, and HEB, and at many online stores such as Amazon.com and NavitasNaturals.com.

*I was provided product to review, and I was under no obligation to review if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review in return for the free product

Natural Treatment for Hives

So, this past weekend I came home from a personal training session and was playing with my 3 year old son. I noticed a few big red spots on the back of his leg and asked him if they itched, because I thought they were mosquito bites. In the next blink of an eye, I saw a couple more show up. What in the world?

After about 30 minutes, I was in a full blown freak out, typing away on the internet, trying to find out what these spots could possibly be. Finally I had worked myself into such a tizzy we decided to call the nurse hotline. We eliminated all possible emergency health conditions it could be, since he had no fever and was acting completely normal. Finally, the nurse ended up saying to keep an eye on him, and that it was probably hives.

I remembered getting hives when I was younger, and it did look similar, so I started researching how to treat hives naturally. I knew that often times hives are due to the production of histamines and/or are your body's way of getting something icky out of its system, so I wanted to build up his immune system, help his body detox a bit, and find a natural anti-histamine (instead of icky Benadryl). I started giving him 100 mg of chewable Vitamin C every hour or two, 2-3 Alfalfa every couple hours, and 1 OmegaGuard every couple hours. I also found out that basil and parsley are natural anti-histamines. As crazy as this sounds, I picked off leaves and chunks of basil and parsley and gave them to my son to eat. Thankfully, he did. I also cooked with plenty of parsley, basil, onions and garlic that day.
 

I kept monitoring him to make sure I didn't see any swelling around his lips or throat. By midday, the spots were starting to clear up, but I did see a few new spots. I kept up with the vitamins and basil and parsley. I put him to bed praying he would look and feel better in the morning.

The next morning, I was overjoyed to see the spots all faded or gone completely!! I know that many of you parents will or have already had a child with hives, and I just want you to know that it is possible to use natural methods to heal your child, instead of drugs or other nasties. The natural remedies that I used with my son can also be used for allergies, because allergies are due to the production of histamines, also. Many of my friends and relatives have seen huge improvements in their allergies because of such awesome vitamins and nutrients like Vita C and alfalfa. Love them!

There is so much healing power in the nature that is all around us!

Go Green For Halloween!

Have you ever thought about how easy it would be to swap costumes for Halloween instead of buying a new costume every year? Think about how much waste we would save...

National Costume Swap Day is coming up on Saturday, October 8.

I highly encourage all of you who get excited about costumes and Halloween to host a costume swap. Not only is it another way to have fun with your friends and meet new friends, but it will also save you money and save waste! It is a complete win/win situation!

You can easily register your costume swap for free on the website. Not only does registering let your community know about your swap, but it also helps media to find potential stories. Your swap will be a community building activity and save many families a lot of money. For ideas on hosting a swap, check out these tips.


If you don't want to host a swap, don't worry. You can find a local swap near you.
For more ideas on greening your Halloween, check out Green Halloween, Swap.com, and Kiwi Magazine.

Winners!

Our last two giveaway winners were....

Planet Flip Flops - #24 Cathy

Quit Nits - #14 Ticklemetiffyyy

Congrats to you both! I hope you enjoy them! Stay tuned for more great low entry giveaways, and keep enteringn for your chance to win some goodies.

Kinderville Review

When it comes to my family's health, I do not compromise. I don't use toxic chemical personal care products on our skin. We take the best quality vitamin and nutrient supplements. I don't serve crappy unhealthy food. And I certainly don't want to store our food in containers that leach out chemicals into the food that fuels our bodies. That is what first attracted me to Kinderville.

They are focused on the quality and safety of their products. Their products are safety tested, bpa, phthalate and lead free, and did I mention that I think they are quite genius?

Let me start with the Little Bites Storage Jars. These jars are made of silicone and are the perfect way to store small amounts of food. I love that they are safe, easy to use and dishwasher and freezer safe. I like to use my jars to store homemade baby food. One of my favorite things about these jars is their innovative silicone lid that creates an instant air-tight seal. All you do to close this jar is simply drop in the lid and gently press bulb to seal. Then when you want to open, you squeeze bulb on top of lid to release. So simple! No more frustration of trying to figure out how to get the lid squeezed on like I used to have with my Tupperware products.

   

With school in full swing, these storage jars are perfect for your kids' lunchboxes! They can hold the perfect amount of leftovers from last night's supper or just a snack to go with your child's sandwich.

I also love their Little Bites Ice Pop Molds. I can remember as a child making my own popsicles, and I am so excited to have these safe molds to do the same thing with my own children now.  My favorite thing about these pop molds is the unique tapered design that allows the ice pop to be pushed to the top to enjoy. The molds also have a fluted rim that keeps the juice in the mold and not all over your kitchen floor.

The last handy dandy product from Kinderville that makes my life just that much easier is their EazySqueezy Lotion Applicator. You just fill it with your favorite lotion, open the flow control valve, squeeze the desired amount of lotion onto the applicator pad, and apply in smooth strokes. It is absolutely perfect for sunscreen and is small enough to carry around with you everywhere. Trying to apply sunscreen to my two wiggly kids is like an Olympic sport, so I really appreciate how much easier it can be with the EazySqueezy Lotion Applicator. I only wish there was some way to make it so you wouldn't have to keep buying replacement pads.




I love that these Kinderville products are all safe, bacteria-resistant and help us all to use less waste and live a little greener so easily! You can reuse them over and over again, saving yourself money and saving the earth from extra waste. Check out all of Kinderville's great products, buy your favorites and make your life a little safer and easier.

*I was provided product to review, and I was under no obligation to review if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review in return for the free product.*

Anatomy Naturals Review and Giveaway

Pure and simple. Those are two of my favorite words when I look for personal care products. Pure and simple doesn't mean boring and plain. It means chemical free with no artificial junk. It means soothing and gentle. Those are the two perfect words to describe Anatomy Naturals.

I love to discover the why behind the products I buy. So, let me share with you how Anatomy Naturals came about and why. Kelly (who is a delightful person to work with), the owner of Anatomy Naturals, says, "Discovering natural alternatives to unhealthy, chemically saturated products is a pursuit that was fostered by my grandmother many years ago.  I found it amazing that her home remedies could be so effective and that nature could be so powerfully beneficial. It is with that fascination that I have created this collection of 100% natural skin care products. All of my products contain ingredients that are proven to be nourishing, therapeutic, and effective. They have been carefully formulated to feel luxurious, smell delicious, and make your skin glow with youthful, radiant health."

I received the 100% natural body oil, eye serum, and Spring Citrus Basil body scrub. While I love all of her products, I think my favorite is the natural body oil. So, let me start there.

The body oil is made up of grapeseed oil, ricebran oil, sweet almond oil, essential oils and grapefruit seed extract. That is it! I like the travel size option, so you can keep it in your purse and spray the perfect amount out whenever you need it. Then you don't have to worry about scraping out the last little bit of goodness like you do with lotions. Every time I use this body oil, it makes me feel like I am in a spa. I love the refreshing and calming smell of the essential oils, and the oils feels luxurious on my skin.

The eye serum is ultra moisturizing! I apply it every night before bed to help improve elasticity, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and keep that sensitive skin around my eyes moisturized. I love how soft the area around my eyes feels every morning when I wake up. The ingredients make a difference! This eye serum is made up of: sweet almond oil, carrot oil, and vitamin E blended with rich and moisturizing beeswax, glycerine, honey, and aloe vera. See what I mean about pure and simple?

The Spring Citrus Basil body scrub is also a treat to use as it gently gets rid of dead skin and dirt. The combination of citrus and basil may sound weird, but it is divine!

One of my favorite things about Anatomy Naturals is that it is handmade in small batches. That is part of what makes it such great quality. There is no comparison between mass produced personal care products with a looooooong list of ingredients and Anatomy Naturals handcrafted pure and simple products. The quality is noticeable, and I appreciate it immensely!

You can buy all of these spa quality bath and body care products online. Create your own spa experience in your home. It will be just what you have been craving...Enjoy!

As a gift for you, we are giving away a $15 Gift Certificate to Anatomy Naturals for (1) lucky winner!

Here is how to enter this great giveaway:

Complete the mandatory entry below!

**Become a public follower of Your World: Healthy and Natural on my right sidebar and tell me you did so in a comment.

For more entries:

Follow Anatomy Naturals on Facebook. (1 entry)

Follow Anatomy Naturals on Twitter.(1 entry)

Subscribe to Anatomy Naturals newsletter. (1 entry)

Post on your Facebook page about this giveaway. Share the link in your entry.(1 entry)


Subscribe to Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it. (1 entry)


Vote for Your World: Healthy and Natural on Top Mommy Blogs or We're on the Fence. (1 entry per vote/day and copy the link back in your comment for it to be valid)


Blog about this giveaway and link back to this post.(2 entries)


Follow @carathenatural on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway.(1 entry)


Like Your World: Healthy and Natural on Facebook.(2 entries)

Comment on any of my posts about healthy and natural living that you have not commented on before. I love to hear your thoughts!! (1 entry)

The deadline for this giveaway is September 28th at 11:59 pm EST, at which time a winner will be randomely chosen. Make sure that you include your email in your comments because if I can't get a hold of you, you can't win.

 * Anatomy Naturals provided me product to review, and I was under no obligation to write this post. Nor was I under any obligation to sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product.*

Mixbook Custom Card Review

Can you believe that summer is practically over? Sadly, it is true. But, that only means we get to look forward to the beautiful colors of fall, Thanksgiving, and then a favorite of mine - Christmas! Last year, I gave birth to my daughter about 2 weeks before Christmas, so I didn't get a chance to send out Christmas cards. This year, I am determined to get cards out to our family and friends.

I decided to try out a new format for our cards this year. I decided to use photo cards. I used Mixbook, which is a company I trust and have used before, to make our family's photo cards.

One of the reasons I chose Mixbook was because their custom card making process is so easy! They have hundreds of templates to get you started, and then you can use your creative genius to go from there. I found a really cute Christmas card template "Rejoicing Angels" to start out with. Then, I added my own message, selected pictures of our family from the past year from my computer to add to the card, and my card was complete!

I received my cards and envelopes quite quickly in the mail. I have been very impressed with the Mixbook staff and customer service. They were attentive when I had a question, and they made sure everything ran as smoothly as possible, as well as worked to make my experience and my cards perfect!

With my busy schedule, I really appreciate anything that can make my life easier and cut down on hassle and time wasted. I think using Mixbook custom cards saved me a ton of headache, time and hassle that can come with making and sending Christmas cards. Now, all I have to do is address them and send them out!

You can use Mixbook custom cards for any event from birthday to Thanksgiving to Valentine's Day and more! Find them on Facebook and Twitter to learn more and get all the latest and greatest updates!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Season Premiere of Dr. Oz Today

As some of you may have seen on my Facebook page, I was on a call with Dr. Mehmet Oz the other day. As a big fan of Dr. Oz, I was thrilled to talk with him and hear about the new season, which starts today, September 12th! While I always take what he says with a grain of salt, I have found that he is different than most doctors I have had experiences with, and he is open to the natural realm of healing.

The Emmy® Award-winning, critically acclaimed and nationally syndicated "The Dr. Oz Show" begins its third season today with brand new episodes that further our national conversation on health and wellness. Hosted by two-time Emmy® Award-winning and world-renowned cardiac surgeon Dr. Mehmet Oz, season three of “The Dr. Oz Show” brings station and timeslot upgrades across the country, with the show airing as a lead-in to local news in 150 markets, 83 of which are timeslots formerly occupied by “The Oprah Winfrey Show.”Shows airing during premiere week feature signature elements that have made “The Dr. Oz Show” a hit with viewers: life-saving tools and information, fun ways to deal with embarrassing topics like belly fat and bodily waste and hard-hitting investigative news that supports the public’s right to know.
 
In September, “The Dr. Oz Show” will announce a season-long million dollar viewer health challenge where people will have the chance to improve their lives in seven different areas that help them reach optimum health. After the steps are completed, a group of judges will choose a winner to receive one million dollars!
 
In the season premiere airing Monday, September 12, 200 women bravely bare their bellies in their battle against the bulge as Dr. Oz reveals a 5-Step Plan for women over 40 to rid themselves of belly fat for good! Then, blast off your bulging belly with foods you never knew could reduce it, and learn great calorie-burning dance moves with “The Dr. Oz Show” contributor, Stepp Stewart.
 
So, check out which station Dr. Oz is on near you and stay tuned...

Baby U R Precious Review and Giveaway

If you haven't been blessed enough to feel and use bamboo fabrics in your home, you have got to try them!! I think bamboo is the softest fabric around, and I feel just luxurious when I use it. Plus, bamboo is a fast-growing plant that doesn't need herbicides and pesticides to thrive, making it a very eco-friendly choice. If that doesn't convince you, get this - bamboo is also naturally anti-microbial, anti-bacterial and is highly absorbent! Now you see why I love it so much.

Baby U R Precious.com (or BURPstore.com) is a fantastic shop featuring great handcafted, eco-friendly baby essentials. This online boutique started because of the owner's desire to become a stay at home mom. She has even turned BURP into more than a wonderful online boutique with their BURP ministry, which is moms that come together monthly to sew burp cloths for those who are less fortunate around the world. I love that!

I was thrilled to receive their Organic Washcloths. Baby U R Precious hand makes the softest and most absorbent organic washcloths available. Their organic washcloths are made using the natural bamboo fabric I talked about earlier, which is 3x more absorbent and antibacterial. That is the perfect combination for a washcloth. My kids hate getting their faces washed, but when they feel this soft fabric on their skin, they actually let me wash their faces! I can't say enough about how much I love these washcloths. I think every family should have them!


Another favorite product of mine from BURP is their Bamboo Pillowcase. This pillowcase is so incredibly soft and smooth, it feels like you are laying your head down on a cloud. I want to get one of these pillowcases for every person in our family, because right now we are kind of taking turns using it. It is just heavenly! If you have someone that you think is hard to shop for, get them this pillowcase. They will thank you!

Check out all of BURP's great bamboo products, and purchase your favorites to pamper yourself and your family! Make sure to like them on Facebook to get discount codes!

Plus, we are giving (1) of you lucky duckies the chance to win (1) bundle of 3 BURP Organic Washcloths.

Here is how to enter this great giveaway:

Complete the mandatory entry below!

**Become a public follower of Your World: Healthy and Natural on my right sidebar and tell me you did so in a comment.

For more entries:

Follow Baby U R Precious on Facebook. (1 entry)

Follow Baby U R Precious on Twitter.(1 entry)

Post on your Facebook page about this giveaway. Share the link in your entry.(1 entry)


Subscribe to Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it. (1 entry)


Vote for Your World: Healthy and Natural on Top Mommy Blogs or We're on the Fence. (1 entry per vote/day and copy the link back in your comment for it to be valid)


Blog about this giveaway and link back to this post.(2 entries)


Follow @carathenatural on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway.(1 entry)


Like Your World: Healthy and Natural on Facebook.(2 entries)

Comment on any of my posts about healthy and natural living that you have not commented on before. I love to hear your thoughts!! (1 entry)

The deadline for this giveaway is September 26th at 11:59 pm EST, at which time a winner will be randomely chosen. Make sure that you include your email in your comments because if I can't get a hold of you, you can't win.

 * BURP provided me product to review, and I was under no obligation to write this post. Nor was I under any obligation to sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product.*

6 Nutrients Your Diet May Be Missing

Think your diet is healthy? Guess again. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans says many adults lack six essential nutrients -- and certain groups of people are missing even more. Filling in so many nutrient gaps seems insurmountable without supplements, so check out the following nutrient gaps your diet may be low in and check out the supplements that I use that can help.To make it really easy for you to improve your health in this way, you can even order them for yourself and those you love right from the link. Remember, a healthy diet that is low in refined carbohydrates (sugar and white flour) and high in a variety of fruits and vegetables is also invaluable.


Magnesium: Essential Nutrient for Bones, Immunity & More


Magnesium is an unsung hero of sorts. This mighty mineral participates in hundreds of bodily functions that foster good health, yet few people know that magnesium contributes to bone strength; promotes peak immunity; maintains healthy blood pressure; and normalizes muscle, nerve, and heart function.

Magnesium is involved in well over 300 different enzymatic reactions and in many of your biological functions. It is often referred to as the “can-do” mineral because it does so many different things in its quest to keep you healthy.

Vitamin C: Essential Nutrient for a Healthy Immune System

It's touted for helping the body repel germs and strengthen our immune system, but that's the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the myriad of roles it plays in maintaining our health.

Vitamin C is also vital for the production of collagen, the connective tissue that keeps muscles, skin, and other tissues, including bone, healthy. And, like vitamin E, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps ward off cellular damage. Your body can't store vitamin C or make it, so you need some every day.

Vitamin A and Carotenoids: Essential Nutrient for Eyes

An important player in good health, vitamin A is essential for normal vision, gene expression, tissue growth, and proper immune function, among many other duties.

Vitamin A comes in two forms: as retinol and carotenoids, the raw materials the body converts to vitamin A. Americans usually have no trouble consuming adequate retinol, but they don't get nearly enough carotenoids.

Vitamin E: An Essential Nutrient to Combat Free Radicals

A misplaced fear of fat may harm health by preventing you from getting the vitamin E you need.

Vitamin E, found primarily in fatty foods such as nuts, seeds, and oils, is a potent antioxidant. It combats free radicals, the unstable oxygen molecules that result from normal metabolism as well as from exposure to air pollution, cigarette smoke, and strong ultraviolet rays.

Calcium: Essential Nutrient for Muscles, Bones, and More

You don't outgrow your need for calcium just because you're all grown up. While calcium is necessary to bolster developing bones, it's also needed to keep your skeleton strong throughout life. And that's not all. Besides participating in maintaining a normal heart rhythm, calcium plays a role in blood clotting and muscle function.

Studies have shown a link between adequate calcium intake and lower blood pressure, as well as weight control. The Institute of Medicine (IOM), the group of experts that sets nutrient quotas, has determined that calcium needs increase with age.

My favorite way to get my calcium is with the Osteomatrix - calcium combined with Vitamin D and Magnesium.
Fiber: Essential Nutrient for Overall Health

Fiber is best known for keeping bowel movements regular and preventing other intestinal woes, including diverticular disease, an intestinal inflammation. Years of research on fiber underscores its importance in overall health, too.

Fiber-rich foods lower the risk of developing chronic conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. Fiber is also filling, and it's found in foods that are relatively low in calories, so it's central to weight control

Vitamin D - The Unknown Champion Vitamin
Vitamin D production is initiated in the skin in response to sunlight. People who avoid the sun may not make enough vitamin D. Ditto for people with darker complexions, who have a higher level of melanin, a natural sunscreen.

Age decreases the body's ability to make vitamin D, so older people may easily become deficient, even when they get enough sun. To make matters worse, vitamin D needs double after age 51 to 400 international units (IU) a day (the equivalent of four glasses of milk), and increase to 600 IU daily after age 70.

Vitamin D is so important, I wrote a whole article about why we need vitamin D. Check it out!

The VitaD supplement is so inexpensive, everyone can afford to get their vitamin D!!

Remember, vitamins and nutrients are fuel for you body! Feed your body what it needs, and it will thrive!SOURCES:


Hillary M. Wright, MEd, RD, Boston.


Marissa Moore, RD, spokeswoman, American Dietetic Association.


National Institute of Medicine.


United States Department of Agriculture, on-line nutrient data base,


Agricultural Research Service.


National Academies Press, "Dietary Reference Intakes for Energy, Carbohydrate, Fiber, Fat, Fatty Acids, Cholesterol, Protein, and Amino Acids," "Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Vitamin D, Fluoride," "Dietary Reference Intakes for Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline," "Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium and Carotenoids," "Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc,"