Today, I’m sharing one of my favorite meals to eat for breakfast. It’s healthy and easy to make, and if I could have this for breakfast every day, I would! I typically use kang kung (water spinach) with this recipe, but when it is unavailable, I like to use yu choy. Chinese vegetables are so delicious! I highly recommend you pick some up the next time you are at an asian market.

If you haven’t had yu choy yet, it has a mild flavor, so it soaks in all the flavors of a dish really well. Typically, I stick to a few main ingredients when I season asian vegetables. The ingredients in this recipe are what I use for literally all of my vegetable dishes. You can use the same ingredients to experiment with other vegetables as well.

Now, let’s get into the recipe! Watch the full video below first, then refer to the specific measurements and ingredients within this article. Happy cooking!

Stir Fry Yu Choy & Eggs

Stina Abion | Hello Lovely Living
January 15, 2019



Servings: 1 serving
Prep: 5 mins
Cook: 5 mins
Total time: 10 mins

Ingredients

• 6 stalks yu choy
• 2 eggs
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 stalks green onion
• 2 Tbsp yellow onions
• 2 Tbsp fried shallots
• 1 tsp chicken bouillon
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 2 Tbsp water
• garlic powder
• black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat wok or skillet on high. Add 1 Tbsp butter to pan, and add garlic, onions, and green onions. Saute for a minute until transparent and slightly golden on the edges.
2. Add vegetables and water, then stir fry for several minutes. Add garlic powder, black pepper, and fried shallots. Stir fry until vegetables are a bright green and slightly cooked through until crisp, but not overcooked. Remove from heat, and set aside.
3. With the same pan, add 1 Tbsp butter and pour in scrambled eggs. Lightly move eggs around until cooked through, but not overcooked.
4. Assemble plate with vegetables and eggs, and enjoy!

Notes

• Substitute yu choy with other vegetables such as kang kung (water spinach), bok choy, or other vegetables of choice.

What is your go-to healthy breakfast?

This series started out with me being curious - and rightfully so! With so many talks about the benefits surrounding CBD oil, I just had to learn about it and share those findings with you all. I’m all for discovering new things, which includes things that will improve my quality of life and wellbeing. In my search for truth, I learned a ton of things that really opened my eyes to a whole new world - literally. In the final part of this series, I will be sharing a few of my final thoughts about CBD oil.

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what i learned

my main takeaways about cbd oil

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Prior to doing this series, I was very curious about CBD oil. Simply put, I did not know that there was so much to learn about the topic and that I was highly under-informed to say the least. Here is a list of things that I learned that made a huge impact on how I viewed the CBD oil industry as a whole:

CBD oil has an outrageous amount of health benefits

In part 1-3 of this series, I talked about the many benefits of CBD oil and Hemp Seed Oil. Of those benefits, the main ones that caught my attention and that I believe would particularly benefit me are in treating the following:

• migraines

• insomnia

• nausea (caused by migraines)

• acne

• stress

• anxiety

cbd oil is legal and safe

Anyone can buy CBD oil online, and it is legal and regulated across the 50 states. The World Health Organization concluded that it is not harmful in 2017.

CBD oil will not get you high

Little did I know that CBD oil actually had a purpose - and it was not to get high. If you read Part 1 in this series, I explained that CBD oil contains less than 0.3% of THC, which is essentially 0% in terms of it ever having the ability to produce a high whatsoever.

CBD oil is made from industrial hemp and not marijuana

Hemp and marijuana are essentially variants of the same plant, cannabis sativa, but they have very different purposes and composition. CBD oil is produced from industrial hemp, which has high levels of CBD. In contrast, marijuana is primarily produced for its high levels of THC content. An easy way to look at it is hemp = CBD and marijuana = THC

CBD oil has many uses and comes in different products

There are so many ways to take advantage of the benefits of CBD oil. It can be vaped, applied topically through various skincare products, taken orally using MedsBiotech CBD oil in the form of CBD capsules, various edibles such as gummies, chocolate, cake pops, dabs, drops, and drinks. I’m sure there is more out there too! CBD oil has many benefits, but specifically, CBD for anxiety is one of its common uses.

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the conclusion

Will I be trying CBD Oil and other hemp products?

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I wouldn’t have imagined that I would ever venture into this category of products or even consider using them. The truth is, I was not educated about the properties, uses, and benefits of hemp products, so I really was naive in my thoughts about them. It took me so long to look into it, but here we are, and I learned so much. I can honestly say that my views have expanded and yes, I definitely would like to try hemp products in the near future. Here is a list of hemp products that I would like to venture into trying and experiencing the benefits for myself:

• Flavored CBD vape oil

• Hemp Skincare

• Edibles (gummies)

• Hemp seeds

As a huge supporter of going the natural route in terms of treating illness and health concerns, I believe that CBD oil and hemp products are just as good as any other natural products on the market. All natural products have their specific uses and benefits, so why not explore and enjoy them if you choose? It feels so good to know what you’re putting in your body, and it is even more fulfilling when you are choosing products in a conscious way. When you know what specific products do for your body, you can listen to your body and determine what is best for you at that particular time.

As always, treating the underlying cause of the issue is even more important, in my opinion. Symptoms are usually a result of a deeper-rooted issue, so try to listen to your body and identify what it is trying to tell you. When the body responds in illness, your body is saying, hey, pay attention to me! I believe that the body has the ability to heal itself with the proper care that we give it. Of course, natural products will always be the better option when dealing with health concerns that traditionally require over-the-counter or prescription medications.

Many people are recognizing that there are so many natural alternatives available, which is amazing because people are becoming more educated about their options. I remember when I first started learning about natural remedies and natural products - I felt like an alien venturing into some far off land because it was a new concept that I had to prove to people. At the time, I was living on Guam and found myself dealing with many health problems. I decided to take control of my health by doing research on natural ways to heal my body. That was the start of my whole wellness journey, which is an endless pursuit because I’m always learning something new, and there’s always room for growth. I am glad that I added all of this information to my “farmacy” as I like to call it. Nature is so abundant and amazing, and I believe that so many answers to our problems can be found in it.

Thank you for tuning into this series, and if you have not already, make sure to go back and read Parts 1-4. This will seriously expose you to some new ideas about a wonderful plant that has so many amazing benefits. I learned so much from this series, and I hope you did to. Are there any other questions that you’d like answered? Comment them below, and I will do my best to answer them. I’d also love to hear about your thoughts about the different CBD and hemp options that I shared, and if you’ve had any experience using them, please share that too.

are you interested in trying hemp products?

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Disclosure: This post is purely from my personal findings and for informational purposes only, not to be construed as medical advice. Please seek medical advice from a licensed health practitioner. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Please see my privacy policy for a complete disclosure.

When I found out that pets can also benefit from CBD oil, I was shook. I mean, learning about CBD oil to begin with has been an eye-opener. It’s been a while since I had a pet, but I’ve always loved animals and had a special love for dogs and birds. I have so many great memories growing up with a Boston Bull Terrier as our family dog. To this day, they are my breed of choice simply because they remind me of my childhood and are just the most amazing dogs I know. In Part 3 of this series, I will be focusing on our furry friends and how CBD oil can benefit them.

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separation anxiety in dogs

is it that serious?

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If you are a dog owner, you know that the separation anxiety in dogs is real. I remember coming home to my dog, Ginny, and she would always welcome us with a catastrophic scene to enjoy. She would tear up the bathroom and leave it covered with slobber and drool. I’m not sure how such a tiny dog could do that, but she did, haha! Each time we were away from her, I’m sure she was a huge ball of stress. I would always feel so bad when we would come home to her seeing that she was stressed, yet excited at the same time. She would do this classic ballerina twirl that I will never forget, which showed how excited and anxious she was for us to be home. She did not like to be alone at all.

The severity of separation anxiety in dogs will vary with each pet, and the symptoms of that anxiety will also vary. Some dogs are extremely attached to their owners, so being away from them causes certain destructive and unhealthy behaviors that I will discuss next. It can become a serious issue if the pet is in constant distress each time they are separated from their owner. If the underlying cause of the symptoms can be treated and would promote a healthier environment for both the owner and dog, then that will improve the quality of life for both. Not only is stress not good for pets and humans, but it can affect that special bond as well.

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Symptoms caused by separation anxiety in dogs

How can I tell if my dog suffers from separation anxiety?

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Knowing the signs and symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs is important in deciding if your dog needs treatment. If there is a way that we can help our furry pals and in a natural way, why not, right? There are a few things to look out for when identifying if your dog is behaving in a way that is not normal and apart from them just knowing what the rules are or being a normal fun-loving dog.

Instinctively, you will know if your dog’s behavior is in response to the distress of being apart from you or if he or she is just acting out normal pup behavior. The difference will be if you notice things in excess such as barking and howling that shows aggression or irritation in response to different stimuli. Hyperactivity may be a cause for concern too, especially if it results in aggressive behaviors. Here is a quick list of symptoms that can be used to identify separation anxiety in dogs:

• Excessive soiling, salivation, drooling, or panting

• Restlessness and intense pacing back and forth

• Excessively scratching themselves or walls and doors

• Digging behavior or attempting escape from room or crate

• Vomiting

• Hyperactivity or panicked behaviors

• Aggression toward animals or people

• Whining, crying, shaking, tail tucked, or trembling

• Following you around the house and not wanting to leave your side

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general symptoms of anxiety in dogs

what are other behaviors that i should look out for?

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There are other forms of anxiety that dogs may display and affect their ability to respond to their environment in a healthy way. Did you know that dogs can also suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? Rescue dogs can exhibit symptoms of separation anxiety due to their previous negative experiences, which can impact them severely. Dogs can also develop obsessive  traits that cause them to fixate on a particular stimulus making them exhibit hyperactive behaviors every time they are exposed to it. Here is another list of common symptoms of anxiety in dogs:

• Barking at cars, people, or other animals

• Anxiousness when riding in cars or during travel

• Anxiousness when being exposed to new people or places

• Fearfulness caused by PTSD

• Anxiousness in response to fireworks or storms

• Sensitivity to common noises

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cbd oil treatment for anxiety in dogs

how can i treat my dog that suffers from anxiety?

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Dogs have similar natural cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system as humans, which is involves the physiological processes such as appetite, pain sensation, mood, and memory. This means that they have a similar response to such products as CBD oil, which is an effective treatment for anxiety in humans. What is CBD oil? If you have not read Part 1 of this series yet, I highly encourage you to read that first as it will explain what CBD oil is, it’s benefits, and other common questions in greater detail.

To sum it up, CBD oil is made from the hemp plant and contains high levels of CBD, a cannabinoid that essentially works with the body’s natural endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for various chemical processes within the body. CBD oil is an effective treatment for dogs that suffer from separation anxiety and other forms of anxiety due to it's calming and anti-anxiety effects. CBD oil works by enhancing the body’s natural ability to stabilize mood by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system to calm and soothe anxiety. CBD oil can correct many of the behaviors that dogs exhibit in response to stress or anxiety.

CBD for dogs is available in drop form and can be added to their food, treats, or water 1-2 times a day depending on their condition. I know I only covered dogs in this article, but CBD for pets is also available, which means your cats can enjoy the benefits of CBD oil too. Just make sure that you check the label to ensure that it is specific to the animal that you are purchasing it for since they may be made for either dogs or cats and not both. You can also buy CBD oil for pets in the form of treats, and they come in various flavors that they will love.

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thoughts

does cbd oil for dogs work and is it effective?

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If you do an online search for testimonials of CBD oil being used for dogs exhibiting anxiety, there are a lot of positive responses out there. It was interesting reading some of the testimonials and how people have had much success with treating their dogs with CBD oil. I really did not know how popular it was until now, but from what I can tell you, it is a very effective treatment that dog owners are currently raving about. So, would I use CBD oil if I had a dog that suffered from anxiety? In Part 4 of this series, I am spilling all of my final thoughts and many takeaways. I will also be answering the question of whether or not I will be trying out CBD oil products for myself. Stay tuned for Part 4, which is the last in this series.

does your dog suffer from anxiety and what are his/her symptoms?

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Disclosure: This post is purely from my personal findings and for informational purposes only, not to be construed as medical advice. Please seek medical advice from a licensed health practitioner. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Please see my privacy policy for a complete disclosure.

In Part 1 of this series, I talked about CBD oil and answered the main questions that I was curious about. In Part 2, I will be talking about hemp seed oil. Many people think that hemp and CBD oil are the same thing - is this true? I will be breaking everything down for you. I am excited about this topic because skincare is one of my most loved things to learn about and to practice. I am always wanting to learn and share more about natural skincare products, so let’s get into it!

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Hemp seed oil vs CBD oil

What’s the difference?

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Is there a difference between hemp seed oil and CBD oil? The answer is yes! It’s easy to get confused about the many terms that are circulating around when referring to cannabis in general. It’s also common to assume that since it comes from the same plant, it’s the same thing. However, that is not true. As I showed you in Part 1 of this series - What Is CBD Oil? Is CBD The Same As THC? + Other Questions Answered - there are many important distinctions that need to be made.

When referring to hemp seed oil, many confuse it as being one and the same with CBD oil, and phrases such as hemp oil and cannabis oil also add to the confusion. Both hemp seed oil and CBD oil are extracted from industrial hemp, but in different ways. Hemp seed oil is extracted from the seeds of the plant, and CBD oil is extracted from the flowers, leaves, and stalks (whole plant). Both hemp seed oil and CBD oil contain trace amounts of THC, which I explained is the effect of using industrial hemp to produce these oils instead of cannabis. Unlike cannabis, hemp contains trace amounts of THC. Compared with CBD oil which contains up to 15% of CBD, hemp seed oil does not contain CBD.

Hemp seed oil contains high levels of fatty acids such as omega-6 and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3) are found in a ratio of 3:1, which is believed to be the optimal ratio. Hemp seed oil also contains high levels of vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant. It can contain up to 100-150g of vitamin E per 100g of hemp seed oil. It is also the only edible oil that contains greater than 80% of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which makes it a very nutritious and beneficial oil when used in both oral and topical applications.

To understand the purpose of CBD oil, make sure to check out Part 1 of this series where I dive more in depth into its uses and benefits.

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hemp seed oil for skin

What are the benefits of hemp seed oil?

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Since hemp seed oil is so rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, Linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3), and Vitamin E, and other beneficial nutrients, it makes it a perfect candidate for skincare products. Here is a list of hemp skincare benefits:

• Hemp seed oil is an effective hydrator meaning it actually puts moisture into the skin as opposed to just laying on the surface of the skin and only keeping moisture in like typical moisturizers do

• Hemp seed oil is non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog pores. The fats or lipids in the oil are similar to that found in the skin, so it regulates the skin’s oil production

• Hemp seed oil increases the elasticity of the skin by locking moisture into the skin, so it can also be used in the prevention and treatment of stretch marks

• Hemp seed oil is an effective anti-aging treatment due to its high antioxidant protection, which fights free radicals that can damage skin cells

• Hemp seed oil is a skin plumper, so it fills skin with moisture and stimulates the natural production of collagen, which prevents fine lines and wrinkles

• Hemp seed oil regenerates the hydrolipidic layer of the skin by preventing it from dehydrating and providing a natural skin barrier that protects it from irritants and environmental stresses

• Vitamin E protects protects against oxidative damage and provides a protective shield for the skin in the form of antioxidants

• In addition to the nutritional makeup mentioned previously, hemp seed oil also contains vitamin a, potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, calcium, and phosphorus, which when taken as a dietary supplement, nourishes the body from the inside out providing antioxidant, hormone regulating, and anti-inflammatory properties

• Hemp seed oil is an effective acne prevention and control method due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which alleviates redness. Its fatty acid content makes it a perfect oil for preventing dry skin without clogging pores

• Due it its gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) content, which is an anti-inflammatory, hemp seed oil is also an effective treatment for healing the skin and treating other skin inflammatory conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis

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hemp skincare products

what products are available?

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When looking for hemp skincare products, look for products that contain non-GMO, organic hemp seed oil and that are eco-farmed following ecologically friendly processes. Also make sure that the company is committed to ensuring the best extraction process to retain all of the beneficial molecules of the plant and that there are no synthetics contained in the product.

You can find various hemp skincare products available such as hemp lotions, hemp creams, hemp scrubs, hemp masks, hemp body butters, hemp serums and hemp moisturizers, hemp body sprays, hemp fragrances, and even oral supplements. Each will serve a particular purpose so that you can enjoy the benefits of hemp seed oil in various skincare applications.

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thoughts

will i be using hemp seed oil for skincare?

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I am amazed about the many benefits of hemp seed oil for the skin, and I feel like I have been missing out, but is it too good to be true? Will I be trying out skincare products that contain organic hemp seed oil? We shall find out in Part 4 of this series! I am also curious about eating hemp seeds now, because if applying it to the skin is good, imagine what it can do from the inside out? I have heard that it contains loads of protein - and we can’t forget about those good omega fats that it contains. Those do wonders for the body. I have seen it in stores and heard about many people using hemp seeds in smoothies and as a topping for fruit bowls and things like that, but I have never tried it out. I heard it has a nutty flavor, which is maybe the reason I am thinking about trying it out. My research continues in this series, so I still have some things to learn. I hope you are following along because in Part 3, I will be talking about CBD oil and its use in treating dogs that suffer from separation anxiety. Follow along for more!

are you also shook about the many skincare benefits of hemp seed oil?

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Disclosure: This post is purely from my personal findings and for informational purposes only, not to be construed as medical advice. Please seek medical advice from a licensed health practitioner. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Please see my privacy policy for a complete disclosure.

I am back with a wellness topic because it is my goal to get back to one of my passions, which is learning and sharing about natural and holistic forms of self-care. I will be doing a 4-part series on CBD oil where I explore its many uses, benefits, and forms it is available in. I find it fascinating how there are still so many natural products out there to learn about. CBD oil is a product that still has many misconceptions surrounding it due to its relationship with cannabis. It is an emerging product that many people still do not completely understand, including myself - until now.

My curiosity about CBD oil came to be because I noticed that it is becoming more commonly used and available in many different forms and is a part of an industry that is growing exponentially. I had no prior knowledge about CBD oil other than knowing that it had a direct relationship with cannabis, so I had many questions and pre-existing views on the topic that required me to become more educated about it.

So, here we are. I am going to break it all down and answer all of the questions that I was curious about. I will demystify what there is to know about CBD oil and its various products. I hope that you learn something new from this series! At the end of this 4-part series, I will share my final thoughts and share whether or not I will be trying out hemp products for myself!

one |

what does CBD stand for? what is cbd oil?

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CBD stands for cannabidiol and is a cannabinoid that is naturally produced by the hemp and cannabis plant. It comprises of up to 40% of the hemp plant. CBD oil is made from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of industrial hemp. Think of cannabidiol as the short, tiny, hair-like structures that grow on the plant and cannabinoids as the chemicals that are unique to it. There are 480 natural components found within the cannabis sativa plant, 66 of which have been classified as cannabinoids. These chemicals react with specific receptors located in the central nervous system of the user.

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two |

is CBD the same as THC? Is CBD oil legal?

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Like CBD, THC is a cannabinoid. They both have the exact same molecular structure, but their atoms are arranged differently, which causes your body to respond differently to each. Despite their similarities, CBD and THC don’t have the same psychoactive effects. Essentially, you will not get “high” off of CBD oil because it is a non-psychoactive compound. It can even decrease the psychoactive effects of THC.

Another thing worth noting is that CBD oil is made from industrial hemp, not to be confused with cannabis otherwise known as marijuana. Hemp and marijuana come from the same plant family, cannabis sativa, but are not the same and have very specific differences. Industrial hemp has a negligible THC content of 0.3% compared with marijuana, which has anywhere from 5-20% or 20-30% in premium batches. For this very reason, industrial hemp is used to produce CBD oil due to its high CBD content and next to nothing THC content. It is also why CBD oil is legal. Industrial hemp is heavily regulated and does not contain psychoactive properties like marijuana does.

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three |

Is CBD oil addictive?  is cbd oil safe?

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To put it plain and simple, no, CBD oil is not addictive, and neither is it dangerous. This comes from a 27-page report by the World Health Organization (WHO) which studied many aspects of CBD, including its potential for abuse and addictiveness.

“An orally administered dose of 600mg of CBD did not differ from placebo on the scales of the Addiction Research Centre Inventory,” it continued, “a 16 item Visual Analogue Mood Scale, subjective level of intoxication or psychotic symptoms.”

In conclusion, there were no negative findings on CBD use in the report, which I will touch on later.

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four |

What are CBD oil benefits?

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CBD oil continues to increase in popularity due to its numerous health benefits. Here is a list of CBD oil benefits that are emerging:

• Natural chronic pain relief and anti-inflammatory treatment

• Migraine relief

• Aids smokers in curbing nicotine cravings and smoking less

• Substance abuse treatment

  • Prevents or reduces withdrawal symptoms in those suffering from substance abuse

• Effective treatment for epilepsy according to 2017 World Health Organization (WHO) study

  • Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) involving different kinds of seizures

  • Dravet syndrome (DS), a rare genetic condition that causes frequent, fever-related seizures in the first year of life

• May provide treatment for other neurological complications linked to epilepsy such as neurodegeneration, neuronal injury, and psychiatric diseases

  • Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease by slowing its progression and aiding with and preventing cognitive decline

• Antipsychotic treatment for psychosis or mental disorders such as schizophrenia

• Alleviates cancer-related symptoms caused by chemotherapy

  • Nausea and vomiting relief

• Cancer-fighting properties

  • Suppresses growth of cancer cells

  • Anti-tumor effects by preventing the spread of cancer

• Reduces anxiety-related conditions - post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

• Treatment for depression through antidepressant-like effects and ability to influence serotonin responses

• Treatment for insomnia

• Eases inflammation and slows down or prevents the development of Type 1 Diabetes

• Eases inflammation and reduces sebum production that causes acne

• Heart-health benefits

  • Reduces high blood pressure

  • Stress-reducing properties

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five |

How To Use CBD oil and cbd Vape Oil and Who sells CBD oil near me?

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CBD comes in a variety of products, but the ones I will be discussing in part 1 of this series are CBD oil and CBD vape oil. CBD oils can be used as CBD oral drops (CBD tincture), in vape liquid or topically to name a few. CBD oil comes in all kinds of flavors - peach, watermelon, strawberry, and berry cotton candy among others. You can purchase travel-sized CBD-droppers for an on-the-go daily single usage, and CBD oral drops can simply be placed under the tongue for absorption. CBD vape oil consists of various vapor liquids that can be vaped via vape pens, e-cigarettes or vaporizers. CBD vape oils also come in a variety of flavors. Vaping pens contain flavored e-liquid that comes charged up and ready to go, which is a convenient and disposable option.

In my opinion, the easiest way to find out who sells CBD oil is to do an online search so you are able to price check and have access to a greater variety of products at competitive prices. There are many CBD oil companies out there, but I highly encourage you to do your research first about the quality of the product that you are purchasing. I highly recommend checking out Diamond CBD because I found their products to be non-GMO, organically grown and made in the US, and produced with federally-legal CBD. They use a supercritical CO2 extraction method to obtain CBD oil, which is the highest standard in the industry, and their processes ensure the quality and efficacy of the product. They also have a large selection of other CBD products such as edibles, drinks, dabs, creams, and pet-friendly options as well that may be of interest to you.

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thoughts |

will i be using CBD oil?

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I have to say, I learned so much about this topic, and it actually opened up my eyes to a topic that I had misconceptions about. All I can say is that there is always something new to learn. Now, the question is, will I be trying out CBD oil for myself? The answer is you’ll have to wait until Part 4 of this series to find out! I am still curious to see what else I will learn about CBD oil. I believe that if it is natural and can improve my quality of life, why not learn about it? If I happen to benefit from my findings, then that’s a win for me - I discovered something new and another natural option in my self-care journey. If that should lead me to using or not using the product, at least I educated myself about it first and know all of the ins and outs of it. I encourage you to do the same!

If you’d like to learn even more about CBD oil, specifically the difference between CBD and THC, check out the I'm CBD, I'm THC campaign. I thought it was so funny and think you’d enjoy it. Also, go to Part 2 of this series where I’ll be talking about hemp seed oil for skincare.

Do you have any questions about CBD oil?

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Disclosure: This post is purely from my personal findings and for informational purposes only, not to be construed as medical advice. Please seek medical advice from a licensed health practitioner. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Please see my privacy policy for a complete disclosure.

These past few weeks, I've been thinking about the direction my content is taking, and I want to bring it back to me being able to express myself more. Writing is such a therapeutic outlet for me. I feel like certain platforms are not very suitable for sharing many of the deep thoughts and conversations I want to be having. This is where my blog comes into play. I want it to be a space where I can share myself in full transparency and be able to talk about things that are important to me on a more personal note.

I get the question a lot about what I "do", and in all honesty, this is a very complicated question for me to answer because I am not a cookie-cutter personality that can be perfectly packaged. I have accepted the fact that I do not fit a certain type of mold that is easily digestible. I accept the fact that I am not for everyone and that some people may not have the time or patience to understand me or what I have to offer.

With that said, I am creating a brand that is my own and not forcing myself into a niche or category that limits me and makes me feel trapped. Today, it is easy to listen to advice that says that you have to do this, that, and the other to succeed. I need to put one fact out there into the universe: I was never one to follow the rules or do what everyone else is doing. I do what I want and how I want to do it. I do not believe in limiting myself or allowing other's opinions to drive my creativity. I truly operate from my heart, and when I feel like I am veering away from that, it genuinely hurts me.

If you look all around in today's creative community, you'll see that everyone is able to carve out a space for themselves that is uniquely theirs. That is happening today, and that is the climate of the future. Everyone is their own brand. Everyone has something valuable to offer by simply being themselves. I see that authenticity and vulnerability is at the core of all of this. In that same token, it is realizing that you will not be for everyone, and that is ok. The people that do connect with you will truly be for you, trust in you and your work, understand what you have to say, and want to support you naturally because they have a genuine connection with you. It's important to never compromise your value to please someone else when they have expectations that go against the very fabric of who you are.

I came across a video last night by Brendon Burchard, and it is a message that I'd like to share with you as well. It was on the topic of what to do when people don't support you. Basically, anyone's opinions, criticisms, and judgments are none of your business. People are not required to do anything for you, just as you're not required to do anything for them. There is a common exchange that happens when, oftentimes, we take what people say or do, and we use that to influence the direction of our thoughts and actions. That is completely unhealthy to do. Instead, we need to be focusing on our goals, aspirations, and dreams and putting energy toward that - not what anyone has to say in response to it. Not everyone is going to understand us, and it is not our job to explain ourselves to people who are committed to misunderstanding us. 

I hope this maybe sheds some light for you if you are a creative or just someone who is feeling discouraged. Truly, no one has that power over you, so don't feel so pressured to do anything that you are not comfortable with. You are a respectable person with integrity by choosing to stand your ground. We are more than what we do, and at the end of the day, we have the choice of what direction we want to take whether or not anyone agrees with it.

What are your thoughts and experiences on these topics? I'd really love to hear your story and how you've dealt with these things. It would really help me, and I'm sure many others.

I hope that you enjoyed that little diary entry. In this series, I want to really be open to discussing any topic that I feel is on my mind. It's a way to open the communication for us to not feel alone about things that are often hidden and that are too taboo to talk about on a perfectly curated feed. If you have any topics or things you'd like me to touch on, do feel free to post those in the comment section below. This is a space where we can talk about real topics that impact us and is a safe zone to share things without judgment.

Before I end this post, I'd like to share a little bit about my glasses that I'm wearing in these photos! What do you think of them? Personally, I am absolutely obsessed with them and haven't taken them off since haha! Actually, before I get into how much I love them, I wanted to share a little side-note with you. The truth behind these photos that you see here is that I just had one of those moments where I just needed to breathe and get away and have a moment to process everything that's been going on in my life right now. These were candid moments where I was literally at the end of my rope, and I didn't know how to make myself feel better other than get into an empty room and have a minute to myself.

Honestly, it really helped to just get away for a moment (even if that was just to my bathroom) haha! I know other moms do this! It's really so important to set aside time for yourself so that you can process things in a healthy way. Anyway, back to the glasses! I chose a tortoiseshell frame because I have always wanted to own a pair. These are from Glasses Gallery, and I actually had several choices, but this is the one I settled on.  It is from a brand called Evisu, which is a Japanese brand. One thing that I loved about Glasses Gallery is that they have a virtual try-on feature, kinda like a Snapchat or Instagram filter! It was so fun trying out some of the glasses. Uriah also got in on the fun as you can see below!

via GIPHY

via GIPHY

Can you believe that these frames are only $95. Of course, prescription lenses added onto that price, but I think this is so worth it because they offer designer glasses that are so affordable. They are actually currently having a promotion for free prescription lenses on select frames for $95, so do check it out. It did take a little over a week for me to receive my glasses because they did ship from Hong Kong and USPS was late a couple days, but I am very pleased with them, so it was worth the wait. I am so glad that they match my face shape and that they fit so well because I had never physically tried them on, so I was a bit worried that I may not like them. It really did help that they had that try-on filter because it eliminated me having to wait for frames to try on, return those, then wait again for a pair that I decided on. In actuality, this process is a lot quicker in that sense.

I highly recommend Glasses Gallery if you are looking for an online retailer that offers designer eyeglasses, sunglasses, and sports glasses at affordable prices. You're sure to find something that you like. I was impressed because they have brands like Marc Jacobs, Ray-Ban, and Jimmy Choo along with various others for any look or budget. I personally am not into designer brands, which is why I strictly went on look alone, but I did appreciate that they did have such a great selection for me to choose from.

Okay, I think that's it for this post! Don't forget to share your thoughts in the comments below, and I look forward to another Dear Diary very soon. xo

what topics do you want to hear about in my next dear diary?

---

A special thank you to Glasses Gallery for partnering with me on this post. Be sure to check them out for all things glasses!  

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my privacy policy for a complete disclosure.

I am a firm believer in gaining freedom over your life. Society has the ability to pressure us into believing that there is a certain way to do things, and to ultimately live. In this short post, I want to inspire you to get out of your routine and set your weekends on your own terms.

I remember when I was working over 120 hours every two weeks at my full-time day job. I was so exhausted. It took a huge toll on me mentally and physically. I literally did not have any time for myself. A part of me was screaming inside, wanting to end the cycle and regain control over my life. 

This is why, today, I feel so passionately about spreading the message of living life on your own terms and creating the life you want and pursuing work that you love. It's not even about the money for me because freedom, to me, is priceless.

No one has the luxury to change things overnight, which is why I always encourage people to start out small. What if I told you that the first thing you had to do was change your mentality? Well, if there were one piece of advice that would lead you on that path toward independence, that is exactly the first thing I would tell you. It sounds simple, but it simply isn't.

Changing your mentality is something that could take years to accomplish, so let's start out small. Let's carve out days during the week where you feel like you are rebelling against the "norm". Instead of waiting until the weekend to do things that you love to do, why not try to incorporate those activities into your weekly schedule?

I am going to be sharing three ways of how I create a never-ending weekend in my daily life or how I carry my weekend into the work week. What may seem a joyous activity to me, may not be the same for you, so I would like you to start thinking about what makes you happy and use this as inspiration.

---

How

I create my never-ending weekend

---

Working at my passion

Believe it or not, I love working on the weekends, which is why I put less pressure on myself during the week and just see every day as an opportunity to pursue what makes me happy. A lot of us wait until the weekends to do what we love, which is why I believe we should be carrying that into the week. Don't wait until the weekend to pursue your side-hustle or something that you're curious about pursuing or learning about. Get at it during the week, even if you have to stay up late or set aside a few hours toward it. It will all add up, so don't think that your efforts are too small to see any results.

Doing spontaneous activities

If you follow me anywhere on social media, you'll know that the beach is one of my most favorite places to be. With that being said, I actually like to go to the beach during the week because it is a lot less busy, and I feel like I am taking a mini-vacation. When you do things that you would ordinarily reserve for the weekend, It feels so freeing and liberating, kinda like when you wear a bra that feels like it's not even there, am I right?! It makes me feel so grateful for the life that I live despite the challenges I face and makes me appreciate the day so much more, which fuels me to continue on this path. I also love to explore Los Angeles or Orange County whenever I feel like I'm craving a new experience. Not only does it expose me to different things that I wouldn't normally have done, it inspires me to keep creating even more new experiences.

Enjoying my favorite foods and drinks

I don't know about you, but food and drinks can make me so happy and get me excited about my day. I take special care to think about what it is that I could eat or drink that would make me happy. Instead of having pancakes only on the weekends, I literally will have it every day if that's what I feel would make me happy. I can be a little extreme when it comes to food, so if I feel like eating something, in particular, I don't care how long it will take me to make it; I make it! It feels so great to listen to your body and feed it what it wants no matter what day of the week it is. 

So, ladies and gents, that is my never-ending weekend. I know, I'm a rebel. Nothing new to see here haha. I mix work with play, do spontaneous activities, and eat whatever I want! Sounds like a good plan, 'ey? I hope you enjoyed this! I am all for supporting companies that share the same philosophy as me such as helping women feel empowered. True & Co. strives to create products that empower women to embrace comfort and luxury every day of the week.

What does your never-ending weekend look like? 

---

A special thank you to True&Co for partnering with me on this post. Be sure to check them out for more ways to mix comfort + luxury into your life!  

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my privacy policy for a complete disclosure.

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Today, I'm back with a much-anticipated post after a long hiatus, and we're talking skin! One thing I can tell you about my skincare journey is that it has taken a very long time for me to understand my skin and how to best care for it. The good thing is, I love skincare - learning about what works and what doesn't and trying new things, so I enjoy the challenge. It's very important to learn about your skin's individual personality - YES, our skin has a personality ... HAHA ... and mood swings! Once you know what your skin's needs are, you will be better prepared to select the right products and achieve the results you want. Moisturizers have got to be one of the most crucial steps in a skincare routine, so that's what we're covering today. Read on to learn the basics!

Murad Nutrient-Charged Water Gel

Your facial skin is subjected to environmental forces every day, many of which can cause it harm. Sun, wind, heat, dryness, cold, and pollution impact your skin constantly, and all of these can have a damaging effect upon it. The effects of these will be most apparent on those who have dry or sensitive skin, but those with oily skin will also find their skin deteriorating in time. Damage to the facial skin will not only cause irritated, dry skin, but will also contribute to the formation of wrinkles. The upper layer of the skin - the epidermis -  is a very thin and fragile shield against the world, and damage to the epidermis can result in damage to the dermis below it. Using a moisturizer suitable to your skin type is an excellent way to provide more protection for your skin. Moisturizers help to keep your skin softer and less prone to wrinkling.

---

How

Moisturizers Work

---

Moisturizers work most basically by helping to seal the skin using what are referred to as occlusives to prevent moisture loss, however, most of these products usually contain other
ingredients that help to make the skin and complexion look fresher and younger.

Emoliants

Emollients are ingredients in moisturizers that are made up of fats, and these work to nourish the skin so that it looks smoother. Emollients help to fill in small cracks in the

skin, as well.

Humectants

Humectants (a substance, especially a skin lotion or a food additive, used to reduce the loss of moisture) are important in maintaining skin moisture because they help to pull water from the lower layers of the skin to the top to help hydrate the outer layers.

---

Moisturizers

for Every Skin Type

---

An important thing to keep in mind when choosing a moisturizer is to choose the correct one for your skin type. A moisturizer designed for dry skin could cause problems for someone who has oily or acne-prone skin. Moisturizers are available as creams, ointments, and lotions.

Dry skin

Dry skin really cries out for the use of a moisturizer. Those with dry skin have sebaceous glands that do not produce an adequate amount of sebum to keep the skin properly hydrated. Dry skin is very likely to develop wrinkles, and for those with this skin type, generally a moisturizing ointment or cream will be the best solution. Look for a product that contains oils, and if your face is severely dry, use a moisturizer that contains petroleum jelly. Moisturizers that contain glycerin also can help to nourish dry skin.

Oily Skin

Oily skin actually can benefit from a moisturizer, although it might seem to be counterintuitive at first glance. However, washing your face removes most of the oil there, and can lead to patches of skin that will be too dry. Rather than using a cream or ointment, which might cause an outbreak of acne, try using a water-based lotion. If acne is a problem, you can discover more here for some help with this skin condition.

Mature Skin

Mature skin definitely needs a moisturizer. As we move into our 30s and 40s, regardless of our skin type, our skin will begin to dry out. This is a time when wrinkles begin to form and become established. Existing wrinkles will deepen. In most cases, acne will not be a serious problem, so an oil based moisturizer is the choice here. Look for a moisturizer that contains antioxidants such as Vitamins A and E.

Normal Skin

Normal skin is one that is perfectly balanced. This skin type is the one least likely to experience problems, but keeping normal skin normal is important, which is why those with normal skin should use a moisturizer regularly. Normal skin benefits from a moisturizer that is water based, such as a lotion or light cream.

Combination Skin

As always, combination skin can be the most difficult to moisturize properly. What might be too oily for one spot, such as the nose and forehead, might not provide enough protection for another spot, like the cheeks. For those with combination skin, a neutral lotion will probably work best, and you can always use a second moisturizer if you notice your cheeks drying out too much.

Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin can be almost as difficult to moisturize as combination skin, simply because it will have a tendency to react badly with more moisturizer ingredients. Sensitive skin is much more likely to be irritated by perfumes, acids, or dyes; any of these can cause an allergic reaction such as a rash. Those with sensitive skin should look for a moisturizer that contains ingredients that will be kind to the skin and less likely to irritate it. Natural ingredients often provide gentler moisturizing.

Once you have found the right moisturizer for your skin type, be sure to apply it right after you wash your face. Leave your face somewhat moist, rather than dry it completely after washing, so that the moisturizer has a better chance to be absorbed.

I have currently been enjoying Murad's Nutrient-Charged Water Gel. It is very light and absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving it feeling greasy or sticky. Since my skin tends to be on the dry side, I like to lather moisturizer on with a vitamin e serum as well. The one I've been using for a while now is the JASON Maximum Strength Vitamin E 45,000 I.U. Skin Oil. It really works so well to retain moisture and provide that added level of protection against drying. 

What moisturizers are you currently using and loving? Let me know in the comments!

---

A special thank you to facingacne.com for partnering with me on this post. Be sure to check them out for all-things skin!

This post may contain affiliate links.

I'm all about these exfoliating body bars lately, and since my recipe makes a ton of them, I'm not running out anytime soon! Truth be told, this recipe was born from a failed attempt at making bubble bars, which I'm not complaining about! I absolutely love these. Read on for the full DIY recipe, and get you some smooth skin!

By far, the best part about these exfoliating bath bars is making them! It's so therapeutic making your own skincare products. I mean, it's like baking, but better. Why? Because you don't have to worry about messing up and getting everything exact! It's all about experimenting and having fun.

When you make your own skincare, it takes you back to the basics and allows you to create something for you. We've got to remember that skincare is very personal, so put your heart into it and make it specific to your needs.

For this recipe, I totally was flexible with the ingredients that I used. I didn't freak out that I didn't have certain ingredients. I just used what I had on hand. That's what I recommend you do, too! I've been researching ingredients for a while now and their skincare benefits, so it's easy for me to look into my cabinet and find what I want for a specific result that I want. I suggest you get into researching natural ingredients and their benefits online and incorporate and experiment with them in your skincare routine.

The purpose of these exfoliation bars is to exfoliate the areas of the body that get neglected. Real talk: I'm mainly talking about the crevices of the body where the sun don't shine! Armpits/underarms, inner thighs, bikini area, inner elbows, inner knees. It can also be used on any other parts of the body where you want to stimulate new skin cell production and turnover. I also have used them on areas where I have stretch marks to do just that. These exfoliating bars really smooth the skin in a way that normal cleansing can't.

The areas that I had mentioned earlier are generally prone to hyperpigmentation AKA discoloration and buildup of melanin. This can all be prevented or reversed with regular exfoliation and proper cleansing of the areas. Buildup can come in the form of dead skin, oil, dirt, and product buildup (as is the case with deodorant), so frequently taking an exfoliating bar to the skin is going to help to remove all of that junk and keep it youthful and bright. I keep one in the shower at all times and use it during every shower.

So, let's get into the recipe! I used baking soda and rice flour for their exfoliating properties. Rice flour has an amazing array of skin benefits, which you can read about here. It's one of my favorite ingredients to use. I also used glycerine, which is really good for moisturizing the skin and is very important for these particular areas that are prone to being dry. Castille soap is a natural soap that will cleanse the area without adding buildup to achieve a squeaky clean. Rosehip oil is another amazing ingredient for combatting hyperpigmentation. Then, there's matcha. I added that in just for the fun of it, but it also has anti-aging properties, which is always a good idea! I sprinkled in some rose petals as well, then topped each with some almonds mainly for the pretty-factor, but they both add to that exfoliation.

Like I said, you can get creative with the ingredients you add in as far as oils and herbs. Next time, I think I will be adding in licorice root. You can read up more about licorice root here.  

---

DIY

Exfoliating Body Bars

---

INGREDIENTS

• 2.5 cups baking soda

• 1/3 + 1/2 cups rice flour

• 1/3 cup glycerine

• 1/2 cup castille soap

• 1 Tbsp rosehip oil

• 4 tsp matcha powder

• Toppings: rose petals + slivered almonds

Yield: 18-20 3" x 1" rounds

INSTRUCTIONS

In a large bowl, mix all dry ingredients together first - baking soda, rice flour, and matcha powder. Then, in a separate bowl, mix all of the wet ingredients together - glycerine, castille soap, rosehip oil.

Slowly add the wet mixture into the dry mixture, mixing in between until a dough starts to form. You will have to kneed the mixture, which is basically the best part! Once it comes together, sprinkle in rose petals, then roll it out into a 3" log on parchment paper.

Cut into 1" rounds and press slivered almonds onto each piece. Set on parchment paper to dry for 24-48 hours or until completely dry. Place them in a covered container.

To use, simply use on wet skin to exfoliate the area. Apply in circular motions until desired exfoliation is achieved, then rinse off.

Will you be trying this recipe? I'd love to hear about your experience, so do come back and let me know how it works for you!

*I have linked products for your convenience, which may include affiliate links.

I can not stress how important it is to take care of your skin while you are young! To all of my younger readers out there, you have a leg up on us #oldies. If I could somehow scold my younger self, I would. I so, so would. But, then again, all this plethora of information that is available online wasn't available when I was a teen, so I can't be too harsh on my younger, naive self. Now that I'm in my 30's I'm doing everything I possibly can to educate myself about my skin and to care for it better and smarter.

With that said, I hope you take advantage of this DIY Turmeric Skin Lightening Mask that I've been using lately. I like to switch things up in my skincare routine so that I stay excited. Trust, I get bored of my skincare regimen all. the. time. This is why it's so important for me to experiment with new ingredients and keep things fresh! Enjoy this, pretties!

Okay, so if you haven't heard about the skincare benefits of rice flour, then first head on over to my previous post on the topic right here. It's one of the skin lightening ingredients I swear by and is in this very recipe.

Let me first clarify, by skin lightening, I am not talking about changing the color of your skin. I am specifically talking about reducing hyperpigmentation caused by acne, scarring, or just in general. Having light skin, I am prone to hyperpigmentation. However, regardless of skin color, we all are prone to hyperpigmentation in some shape or form, which is basically an overproduction of melanin in the skin.

If you suffer from hyperpigmentation, whether that be on your face or other areas of your body - be it your underarms, bikini area, thighs, knees, elbows, neck, etc., natural skin lightening remedies are available to you and are highly effective. 

In my research, I have found so many amazing ingredients that work well for hyperpigmentation. I will briefly touch on the ones that are used in this recipe. 

x Lemon

Lemon contains citric acid, which is a form of AHA or Alpha Hydroxy Acid making it a highly effective skin bleaching agent. Lemon promotes the turnover of new skin cells and allows the dead skin cells from the surface of the skin to - in essence - melt away. You can imagine how effective this can be for repairing damaged skin. AHAs are well known for their use in cosmetics, so why not just squeeze some natural, unprocessed lemon juice and get the same results without all of the added chemical-junk.    

x Turmeric 

Turmeric is one of those ingredients that you can't help but fall in love with. It is SO good - and I mean that. Not only is it good from the inside out, it's good from the outside in. It can be used both in cooking and in topical applications. Why is it so beneficial? To put it simply, turmeric contains individual phytonutrients that have effective skin lightening properties. In particular, turmeric is well-know for its phytonutrient, cucurmin, which is distinguished by its bright, yellow-orange color. Curcumin blocks the formation of free radicals and melanin production and inhibits tyrosinase, which is involved in producing the melanin pigment. It is basically a powerhouse of antioxidants, so your skin is going to drink that stuff up and love it.

x Rice flour

As I mentioned previously, I did an extensive post on the benefits of rice flour, so head on over to this post! Rice flour is honestly a miracle ingredient and just something you need to be using if you want to instantly reveal a brighter complexion. I'm speaking from experience!

x licorice root

So, a favorite pastime of mine is Googling random herbs + skin and seeing what pops up on the topic. Almost 100% of the time, I will learn some amazing skincare secret that I never knew about. Licorice root was one of those ingredients!

I discovered that when ingested, licorice root powder has the power to lower testosterone and massively inhibit androgen stimulation of the sebaceous glands, with the result being less oily skin and clogged pores. I won't dive into it in detail, but here's a very interesting video on the topic that really opened my eyes about it.  I initially started taking licorice root for its ability to regulate my hormonal acne, then I discovered that it was more beneficial when applied topically.

Licorice root has amazing skin lightening properties due to its ability to also inhibit tyrosinase or melanin formation like turmeric. It is considered to contain some of the most potent skin lightening properties available in a plant. One compound, liquiritin, acts directly on melanin to disperse and remove it. Licorice root also has been shown to protect against UV radiation. Here's a more detailed article about licorice root and it's skin benefits.

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DIY

TURMERIC SKIN LIGHTENING MASK

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INGREDIENTS

• 1 tsp turmeric

• 1 Tbsp rice flour

• 3 capsules licorice root powder

• Juice of half a lemon

INSTRUCTIONS

Mix all ingredients together to form a paste. Apply to the area you want to treat and then let it sit for 15 minutes or until dry. Gently rinse and exfoliate off with a sponge (this is the sponge I use) and warm water. If there is a yellow tint still remaining on your skin, remove with a toner on a cotton pad (I use witch hazel).

---

Will you be trying this skin lightening mask? I'd love to hear about your experience, so do come back and let me know how it works for you!

Spring has sprung! Seeing the sight of trees in bloom not only gets me excited for warmer months, but it refreshes my perspective and it reminds me that there is beauty in the wait. There are so many subtle reminders in nature that provide the lessons that we need, and I believe that nothing happens by accident. There is a reason for everything. However, like my quote illustrates below, although everything happens for a reason, some things happen for a season.

Yes, we'd all like to believe that everything lasts, but the reality is that life is transient by nature. Things happen that shake up our very existence only to challenge our ability to stand strong in the midst of it. What happens on that testing ground determines the outcome of our circumstances.  

I was having a talk with my son, Kodi, and he made a statement that was so profound. "Thoughts are fluid." I mean, coming from a 14-year-old, that simply blew me away. What he meant by this statement was that you can't control people's thoughts. They change. People change. I mean! Proud mama moment right there.

If thoughts are fluid, we as human beings are, too. We were not meant to be in a solid, permanent state. We were meant to move and adapt. Just like every living thing adapts to the changing seasons, we must do the same. We must also learn to recognize unhealthy patterns in our life and initiate change. 

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“Sometimes we grow
in a twisted, sideways manner
rather than straight up

but in the end,
our branches
always seek the light

and the trees
that bear
the sweetest fruit
endure
the longest winters.”

— April Green

---

As the new season approaches, I just want to encourage those of you in particular that may be going through a difficult season. Know that it is not meant to destroy you, but to build you. It will not last forever, it will pass. 

Get excited when there is a time of resistance in life because that is the very time when your strength will come out. You don't know how much you have within you until you are tested. Take this time as an opportunity to bring out the best in yourself and develop areas that you haven't really paid attention to. Shed the old, welcome the new.

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In my personal experience, I've learned how to recognize the different seasons of my life for what they are and not be resistant to whatever lessons that I am supposed to learn in those moments. I actually get really excited when things get hard and difficult because I know that just by going through those experiences, I am growing through them. I welcome every opportunity that requires me to take a deeper look at my life and myself because I don't ever want to be comfortable in my ways or lead a comfortable life where I am never challenged or never challenge myself.

I created the free digital print that you see above for you to frame and keep up as a reminder for those times when it's hard to see things for what they are. Rest in the idea that everything happens for a reason, but know that some things happen for a season. Your seasons do not necessarily define you, you define how your seasons will impact you - either positively or negatively.

Cheers to experiencing the fulness of life through every season!

---

I hope you enjoyed this little reminder and that it encouraged you through whatever season you are currently facing today. If you need more inspiration on the daily, I post every day on Instagram + keep you motivated and inspired with uplifting content. I'd love to see you over there!

Do you enjoy these types of posts? Let's chat in the comments below!

It's a known fact that I am all about plant-based options - and when it comes to skin - I have recently been obsessed with one ingredient that has shown an immediate improvement in the appearance of my skin. 

Yes, honey, rice flour it is. Your initial impulse to natural skincare wouldn't probably be to reach for your trusty rice kernels, but darling, you should be! Rice flour may just as well be the thing you need to be reaching for to get your skin looking brighter, lighter, more even-toned, and smoother.

More about natural skincare: Using olive oil as a natural remedy for greasy faces.

Read on to learn how to make this easy 2-ingredient mask that is utter obsession-worthy!

Fact: I personally suffer from hyperpigmentation in my chin and mouth area. This is due to problematic skin in that area over the years, not to mention countless years of probing that region whenever I would have a breakout. I mean, it's not that bad, but it could be better!

Can we all agree that it's just so hard to not want to pick at problem areas!? It's the absolute worst. Recently, I've been more conscious about taking care of my skin. I'll attribute that to finally reaching my 30's. If only I had paid more attention to my skin in my 20's. *sigh*

Once I reached my 30's, I started to see noticeable changes in the appearance of my skin that I didn't particularly like. Enter: Fine lines and soon-to-be wrinkles. Milia. Hyperpigmentation. Uneven texture. *balls eyes out*

Mhm, that's the exact process I went through, then I was reminded of a product that I absolutely loved - PLANT Apothecary's Rice & Clean Gentle Facial Cleanser. I absolutely loved it. Gentle, exfoliating, yet it didn't strip my skin of moisture.

So, I had an idea. I have rice flour in my pantry, (#asian) so I thought, why don't I just make a mask out of it! Genius moment. That's exactly what I did - and it was the best experiment ever to take place.

The first time I tried it, my face was lighter and brighter immediately after. No joke!

Here are some interesting facts about rice: Rice flour has been used for centuries in Asia, particularly Japan as a whitening agent for the skin. I won't go into full detail, but rice bran has certain inherent properties such as PABA (para aminobenzonic acid) as well as Ferulic acid and allantoin, which acts as sunscreen/anti-inflammatory agent. Tyrosinase inhibits the production of melanin in the skin, and Vitamin B boosts new cell production and slows down the aging process (yay!). Last but not least on important facts, rice flour brightens the skin by improving collagen production and elasticity. 

I can certainly attest to it having a brightening and lightening effect on my skin. Not only did it happen the first time I tried this face mask, but it happened every single time thereafter. It also acts as an exfoliant upon removal, and my skin looks and feels a lot even-textured immediately afterward. Needless to say, I've been addicted to doing this almost every night. It does exactly what I want it to, and it's the easiest thing to make. So, why wouldn't I get addicted!

If you're looking for a way to naturally lighten your skin without ever touching harmful ingredients, this is for you. I would think that it would also work well on other areas of the body, so it's worth a try. I've seen significant improvement in my skin since I've been using this face mask, which is why I had to share it in hopes that it will help anyone who suffers from hyperpigmentation.

Here's how to make this yummy, delightfully-scented, and completely natural 2-ingredient face mask:

---

diy

rice flour face mask

---

ingredients

• 1/4 cup sweet rice flour or regular rice flour

• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

In a small mixing bowl, add the rice flour, then slowly add water and mix until a creamy paste forms. Apply a thin layer to the face with a brush, avoiding the eye area. Leave on for 15-30 minutes until it feels noticeably dry. Using warm water and a washcloth or a natural charcoal sponge (what I use), gently remove the mask in circular motions. Pat your face dry, then apply your favorite moisturizer to your skin. Cover and save the remaining product in the refrigerator for use throughout the week.

I personally use this mask very often, so it is completely up to you on how frequent you want to use this mask. The more often, the better, as it will work it's wonders over time.

You can find rice flour at most grocery stores. I personally use sweet rice flour found at my local asian store.

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Wasn't that just the easiest DIY face mask EVER! Yup, thats why I love it. I seriously hope you try it out because it works! No sugar-coating here. Since I'm that obsessed, I partnered with PLANT Apothecary to give away one of their Rice & Clean Gentle Facial Cleansers that I had mentioned earlier! Click the button below for entry details.

Will you be trying out this recipe? If you do, I'd love to see your photos! Go on, tag me in your photos on Instagram using #hellolovelyliving and @hellolovelyliving so I can get all heart eyes on your photos + share them so others can do the same!

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I remember back home on Guam the way the ocean twinkled underneath the night's sky. How the water reached the shore ever so gently and filtered through the tiny grains of sand, displacing them over and over again. It was calming, peaceful, and I will never forget the feeling it gave me.

Isn't that exactly how life is? We are constantly tossed and displaced and moved around. 

I'm always looking for inspiration from nature, and this may as well be the perfect fit for what I'm trying to say.

Did you know that based on the size of the grains of sand, pebbles, or rocks on a beach or coast, you can easily determine what conditions they were exposed to?

It's quite simple. Fine grain sand is exposed to powerful ocean swells that repeatedly toss the grains until they become round and polished. Larger pebbles or rocks that are freshly weathered have not yet traveled very far, therefore are not rounded and smoothed. 

Larger pebbles or rocks also suggest that they've been carried to the shore by larger waves, while smaller particles are carried away over longer distances, eventually reaching further, calmer shores.

We all know that fine textured, white, powdery sand is valued all around the world. What if I told you that you must go through the same process as sand if you want to become refined, rounded, and smoothed. You need to travel long distances, be carried away and tossed around by large waves before you reach a place of calm, like what happened on that beach at the beginning of my story.

Things happen in nature that are just that - natural, unobstructed, and part of a process. They are the most beautiful things. There's a cause and effect to everything, and that's something that we don't really think about on a daily basis. We don't realize that we are also part of a process.

We can't really expect different results if we are doing the exact same thing that leads to the result that we don't like. We need to change something in that process in order for change to occur. I am a firm believer that change is necessary, and it is so ingrained in me that I am not scared of it. I accept it, and I welcome it.

Let me give you a bit of context. Growing up, I always moved around. It was never in my mind that I would stay in one place for the rest of my life, nor was it ingrained in me that anyone was guaranteed to stay in my life. It may sound sad, but it's just a part of who I am and who I became. I had to learn to let go at an early age. Of people. Of places. Of situations that weren't good. It was never easy for me, but I had to adapt. 

As an adult, I guess it's so ingrained in me that I have to keep moving forward that I need it. I can't stay in one place or get complacent, especially if I'm not seeing growth within myself. I can't get myself to settle for less than what I know I'm capable of.

What I'm trying to get at is that there is something that you can do to be where you want to be. Change. Change is hard, but it is necessary. You can't wait for change to happen. You have to be the change and be the cause of it. You have to live intentionally if you want to see the life that you desire.

Coming from a small island, it's easy to get complacent and comfortable. It's easy to go with the motions and do the exact same thing over and over again expecting different results. I know exactly how it feels. I believe in persistence, but not if it's not leading me to becoming a better person or to a better place. 

You may not come from a small island like me, and I'm not limiting this kind of behavior to certain environments, but that's my reality that I personally was faced with. Limiting thoughts and behaviors happen to all of us. Naturally, we want to stay in the safe zone - on the shore.

The truth is, you have to break away from what is comfortable. You have to do the things that scare you. You have to be the one to challenge yourself. You have to be the one to say enough is enough. You have to want better for yourself and for your future. It's all dependent on you and only you.

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Coming from one of the most beautiful places on earth makes me reflect on the memories that are forever ingrained in me. When they say no place is like home, it's true. But, it's only true when you leave home. When your eyes become open to the world around you. When you step outside of known territory and into something different and challenging.

Leaving home is always hard, but it is necessary - in a literal and figurative sense. Home can be anywhere you find comfort in. It may be a job, a person, a habit, a way of thinking, etc.

The only way for you to have new eyes is to literally remove yourself from the very place that you've become numb to. I don't believe that anyone should become numb at any point in life. Life is meant to be felt and to be experienced. Becoming apathetic toward life, to me, is a slow and painful death. I never ever want to become that way.

Once you feel yourself starting to get numb, that should be a sign that something needs to change. Sometimes that change needs to happen from within. Other times, external factors need to change.

Life is all about constant evaluation. No one is meant to stay in the exact same place, especially if it is unhealthy to them or leading them to be less than what they are capable or deserving of.

Nowhere in this post will I say that it is easy. It is extremely hard and difficult. We get really comfortable even with things that aren't good for us. We tolerate things and give excuses for the very things that we know are wrong for us. 

At one point in time, I was in a very emotionally and mentally destructive relationship and I stayed. Why? Because I was already at that point where I found comfort in the process. Destructive patterns are hard to break from, and I can say from experience that I have struggled with it, and I know what it feels like. I know that I will continue to be faced with destructive patterns that I constantly need to reevaluate. This is life.

In any process of breaking, stretching, or growing, there will be resistance, and you will have to go through the pain associated with it in order to come out stronger. 

Pain is part of the process of growth. It may not be physical pain, but it could be emotional pain or mental pain, which is not any less painful.

One thing I know for sure is that each time I went through a painful process, I always emerged a better person with so much more to give and knew that I was deserving of so much more. 

Today, I encourage you to do the very thing you know you need to do. Don't wait until it's too late. There is something better for you. A better process. A better outcome. You can't expect to get to a certain ideal place unless you grow through life. You can't simply go through it. You must learn something and truly let your life unfold without holding onto things that you know are hindering you from your best self. Your best life.

In closing, be like sand. Travel far. Be refined. You're becoming your best self through the process. It may be difficult, but nothing of value ever came to be without being exposed to the elements. You'll reach a place of calm, eventually. When all is said and done, the distance you traveled will equal the depth of your experience. Let the waves mold you.

Cheers to you experiencing the best of life. 

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As the new year approaches, it's a great time to start thinking about the deeper things and constantly holding yourself accountable to the direction that your life takes. I hope I've inspired you a teeny bit with this post. xo

If you need more inspiration on the daily, I post every day on Instagram + I keep you motivated and inspired. 

Did you find this helpful? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Baby, it's cold outside. But, inside, now that is a completely different story! I'm the type of person that loves to keep my home warm and toasty. And my baths - hot! No matter what season it is, a nice, hot bath is always a good idea, especially in the winter months.

Today, I'll be sharing my idea of a perfect relaxing bath during winter. It could be snowing and storming outside, but I want my bathroom to feel like a tropical green getaway straight out of a magazine. Not too much to ask, right? I'm going to show you how to do the exact same thing so you can also enjoy a little at-home retreat.

I'll also be talking about WETSTYLE, a high end bath furnishing brand headquartered out of Montreal that I simply fell in love with. Their bathtubs are a dream - and yes, I am currently dreaming of that perfect bathtub for my one-day dream home! Stay around toward the end of this post to see these beautifully modern, minimalist, and eco-friendly tubs that I speak of. I'm all over it and absolutely obsessed (can you tell)!

Would you believe that this entire setup only cost around $11! In Mariah Carey's famous words: yaaass, daaahhhling! As you can see, greenery and flowers can instantly transform an ordinary bath into something luxurious. 

Sometimes you just need a quick little escape from reality, and in this case, winter! I'm all over this idea because the winter months can be a difficult time for me. I don't do well staying trapped inside with overcast weather, which is often the case during this time of the year. This is exactly something that would definitely cheer me up, and I'm hoping it will do the same for you, too!

When choosing flowers and greenery for your bath, go with what makes you happy! Baby's Breath and ferns are perfect for me because I don't consider them a splurge, so I won't feel guilty about buying them. They are just as beautiful as any other flowers (in my opinion), so I still get the same effect without spending a whole lot. I bought two bundles for around $7, and for that, I was very proud of. You could also sprinkle lavender petals in your bath, which I think would smell amazing! Grocery stores that sell bulk items usually have them in the spice section.

Now, if you're a bottle/glass hoarder like me, now's the time to put those bad boys to use. I have tons of them laying around the house, but I'm sure you can find some in your cabinets. The key is to repurpose what you do have, so any glass jars or bottles of varying sizes will do! The more the merrier, so come one, come all! Fill them with water, then arrange your flowers into each. If you want to get even fancier, head to your local Goodwill and pick up a bunch of quirky bottles. I picked up a few, and it was so worth it!

Now, arrange your ferns around your tub as you wish. I chose to do it on opposite corners to frame my tub. This literally only takes a few minutes! Save a few ferns and flowers to drop into the water - I swear, this is the prettiest thing you will EVER see! Floating leaves and flowers just make me imagine being in a river, which is so relaxing in itself. I just can't get over how beautiful it looks. 

Finally, arrange tea light candles around your tub, and place your bottles on each corner of the tub to create a garden effect. Fill your tub with water and drop a few flowers and ferns in, followed by any bath products you may want to use. 

The water will look a beautiful blue, and the flowers will cast the most beautiful shadows onto the walls. It's the most relaxing thing ever. Light those candles, and instantly be transported somewhere heavenly! 

Doesn't it just look so relaxing!! I can't get over it. Now, since I do live in an apartment, it's even more special doing something like this every now and then. Sometimes living in an apartment can make you feel like you can't do certain things, but that shouldn't stop you from creating a space that you love.

You can still create a warm and inviting setting and make it feel like home, even if it is just a temporary living space. It took me a while to accept this fact, but once I did, my apartment became a home and felt like it. You don't need to have the perfect house to make things "feel" special or add a touch of luxury. 

Don't forget relaxing music, a book, some wine? Whatever it is that makes you feel relaxed, do that! I can guarantee you that putting a little extra effort into setting all of this up will make all the difference. I instantly felt relaxed by this space, and I'm sure it will do the same for you!

Speaking of which, I told you I would talk about WETSTYLE and show you some of their stunning bath furnishings that I am utterly obsessed over. They seriously got me thinking about my dream bathroom, so I am excited to share a little bit about them and why I am so impressed.

First off, I adore the design of their bath furnishings. I mean, look at it! I am all about quality, and everything about this company stands for that. Most importantly, they use sustainable materials in the construction of their products and offer the purest and most environmentally friendly material in the industry with WETMAR BiO™, an eco-friendly thermo-insulating material made primarily from a mix of Mother Earth’s natural ingredients – soy and mineral stone.

I also love the fact that WETSTYLE has pioneered a proprietary and code-compliant recipe that uses soy and vegetable extracts to replace the petrochemical-based resins in heavy use by the industry. Excuse the geek-mode status, but this stuff gets me going!

Their Cloud Bathtub, pictured above illustrates their newest brand, W2 by WETSTYLE's design aesthetic perfectly: relentless attention to quality, simplified design, elegance, and timeless transitional design.

All of WETSTYLE's bathtubs and wash-basins are made exclusively from the WETMAR BiO™ material that I just mentioned, while its furniture is crafted from hand using sustainable hardwoods! We're talking real wood, which is hand-stained and sourced from renewable forestry - not to mention, moisture, stain, and damage resistant! 

The tub you see above is their Wave Bathtub, which is my favorite. How sleek is it! I love the clean lines and minimalist feel of their products. Their vanity floats, which gives the illusion of more space - perfect for smaller bathrooms.

If you know me, you may know that I am all about environmentally conscious companies. So, I was instantly intrigued with their attention to detail and their environmentally conscious philosophy. Of course, we can't ignore the fact that the design is simply gorgeous. Can I please just swap my tub for one of these really quick!?

Their new brand, W2 by WETSTYLE, which was introduced last year is designed for smaller spaces, so in all of these photos, you can see just how perfectly the bathtubs fit into such tight spaces without compromising design or function.

WETSTYLE has 250 showrooms across North America, Europe and the Caribbean in addition to it's headquarters in Montreal, so if you're in the market to makeover your bathroom with premium bath furnishings with a focus on design + sustainability, they are definitely worth a look! I know I will be bookmarking them for future reference.

Their bold and original designs have won many awards including Winner of the prestigious 2015 Green GOOD DESIGN Award for sustainable design, as Awarded by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design. How cool is that!

If you're interested in finding a WETSTYLE dealer near you, I have linked their "find a dealer" page at the button below.

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wetstyle

montreal, canada

WEBSITE | twitter | pinterest | Facebook

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I hope you enjoyed this fun little post and that it inspires you to treat yourself a little special this winter! A special thank you to WETSTYLE for partnering with me to bring you this post.

What is your idea of a perfect bath for winter? I'd love to hear your tips in the comments below!

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of WETSTYLE. The opinions and text are all mine.

Do you ever wonder how some people can stay so focused no matter what is happening around them?

Gosh, what is up with those people!? An asteroid could be approaching earth, and they'd still be in their own world.

Confession. I'm one of those very people. *covers eyes*

I'd like to offer some insight into the mind of someone (me) who can stay freakishly focused.

Oh, I do have my moments (don't get me wrong), but it does take a lot - and I mean a A LOT - to get me distracted.

Once I set my heart on something, it's done. It's over. I will follow through.

Now, for the positivity - that has taken a lot of work for me over the years. It'll always be a work in progress for me, but I think staying focused + positive go hand-in-hand.

I'll be sharing 10 ways that have worked for me in staying focused + positive in business and in life. 

I hope this will be helpful to those of you who are trying to find that balance. 

Before we start, first thing's first: I want to point out something so important.

We are all born with unique traits and abilities that come natural to us without us even trying. Once you identify what those are for you, you'll have a better hold on yourself and on life.

Self-awareness is an important step in understanding how to stay focused + positive because only you know what motivates you.

When you have control over yourself, you become stronger and more able to deal with anything in life. We can't always control what happens in life, but we can control our actions and how we respond to things. 

So, what does this have to do with this post? I want to stress the importance of knowing your strengths and realizing that those were given to you for a reason.

I used to absolutely hate the fact that I was so observant. Absolutely hate it. You know why?

Because I saw everything. I couldn't close my eyes to things (oftentimes hurtful things), because my eyes were so open and soaking in everything. I'd notice details that no one else would.

As I grew older, I realized that this was one of my gifts.

I'd like you to first discover and identify your unique gifts and actually use those to your advantage in staying focused + positive.

Capitalize on those natural abilities you have. You do it best, and that is why you need to use them.

Once you identify your unique gifts in all areas of life, you will have a better hold on dealing with things. Your weaknesses wouldn't matter because you'd be focusing on your strengths.

This is powerful. 

So, now let's get into how I personally stay focused + positive. Here we go!

1| Pause

Hit the pause button.

This has saved much heartache, and it will continue to save me much heartache.

We all have the natural tendency to judge situations before they even have time to simmer. I am guilty all the time. I worry A LOT. I question things A LOT.

But, the one thing that has saved me most times is taking a minute to let things play out, naturally.

When we rush things, we end up reacting in ways that may not be authentic to ourselves. We may say or do things that aren't the best representation of us.

Many times, I've also found that my emotional state at the moment had influenced my reactions as well. So many factors come into play when situations arise, so taking a minute to digest everything works wonders.

Learn to respond, not react. This means, when something happens, instead of instantly reacting, give it some time.

Evaluate the situation for as long as you need to, then respond. A reaction is not always necessary.

2| Lessen your distractions

This one's a tricky one.

I was going to say cut out all of your distractions, but let's be real, some distractions are just a part of life and can't be avoided. Mommy life, anyone?

Instead, let's do a fun little exercise, shall we?

Identify all of your key distractions and try to lessen any of them that you have control over.

If there's anything in particular that doesn't add value to your life, go ahead and ditch that mother.

One of the distractions that I had and made a decision to eliminate was Facebook.

Anytime I would get off of Facebook, I would always think, did I just waste 2 hours of my life just now? 

I would feel horrible, not only because I wasted valuable time, but I unwillingly became a part of negativity or drama on a daily basis.

So, that habit had to go.

Distractions could be people, places, things, etc.

3| Be mindful of what you allow

Sometimes the very things that we allow into our lives are the very things that drown us and keep us down.

Learn to be selective about what you allow into your life. It could be something small, but things grow roots.

Everything drains our time in one way or the other, so let it be something worthwhile.

Keep an eye out on everything that comes into your life - be it opportunities, people, or things.

Every cause has an effect, so if it's not something that will add value to your life (as stated earlier) identify it, and don't allow it. Preventing hurt or disappointment from happening down the road is so worth it.

Filter through things before you allow it to take up your time, energy, and attention. You'll need all of that for the more important things.

Let your yes be yes and your no be no, and only say yes to those things that you feel are worthwhile. So many times we say yes to things that don't serve us well or that we don't really want to do.

Don't be afraid to say no in order to say yes to what really matters.

5| Be authentic to you

Focus on your own stuff.

So many times we are losing our focus because we are taking our attention off of our own path and staring too hard at someone else's.

We need to pull the plug of comparison and realize that the answers are within us.

Focus on what you do best. Focus on your strengths.

I came across a post on Instagram one day by fellow boss babe, Promise Tangeman, that stuck with me.

She said, "Don't waste your time trying to 'find' your style. The truth is you already have it. You may just need to create more in order to see it."

I think this is so true.

We need to focus on creating from our unique space and see where it takes us.

Staying focused is so important in being a creative. You need to protect your space because outside influences can unknowingly interfere with your authenticity.

You want to be true to you, and that takes looking inward and being mindful of distractions that could interfere with that on a daily basis.

6| Know what you want

What are your priorities? What's important to you?

These questions will help you focus better.

When you know what you want and where you want to be, you will have a clearer vision of what you need to do to get there. When you know what's at the top of your list, you'll be able to breeze through all of these steps with ease.

It's amazing what we'll do for what we want.

If you have made a decision that you don't want negativity in your life, you'll steer clear from it.

Making clear and conscious choices toward what you want is a definite way to get closer to your goals and to achieving them.

Setting priorities is so important especially when there are so many things that are pulling for our attention on a daily basis.

When you know what you want, you'll be able to communicate that to the world, and it will come back to you.

If you put out love and encouragement, guess what? That's exactly what you'll be associated with and that's what you'll attract.

7| Identify your why

There's something so life-changing in knowing exactly why you are doing things in the first place.

Start with the basics.

Why do you wake up in the morning? Why do you go to work? Why do you want a better life for your family?

Once you begin to answer these things, your life will take on a deeper meaning and you'll be so motivated to wake up every day.

There's nothing like being on a path with no direction. We need to be headed somewhere in order to feel driven.

If you don't know where you're going or why you're doing it, you'll be headed no where fast.

Be inspired by your "why" and let it be that constant inspiration for you.

8| Celebrate small victories

Take the time, even if but for a moment, to celebrate those small victories of yours.

We need to be our best cheerleaders!

Sometimes days turn into months and months turn into years, and we forget to stop and enjoy where we are today.

There's a lot that needed to happen for you to reach the point that you are at now, so be proud of it.

It will motivate you to keep pressing forward and to not give up. 

9| Don't dig up in doubt what you planted in faith

Let's face it, some days are not the best, and some days you may question if what you're focusing your energy on is even worth the sleepless nights, stress, and uncertainty.

But, stop for a minute and know one thing: There was a moment in time where you made a decision.

You put your heart out and risked everything for it. You knew that you'd have to muster up the courage to execute it.

For that very reason, you demonstrated great faith, and it's for that exact same reason that you can't give up no matter how difficult things get. 

10| Do it with all your heart, or not at all

I wanted my final tip to just encourage you to not be too hard on yourself.

I know how difficult things can get sometimes, and the pressure to perform and be amazing is overwhelming to say the least.

Give yourself the permission to take a break when you feel you need it.

Don't worry, things will not fall apart. People can wait. Demands can chill.

You need to focus on yourself, your happiness, and if you need to refresh your perspective or just need a little breather, do it.

It's better to do things with all of you instead of putting out something that's not from your heart or that is forced.

Allow yourself to be exactly as you are in all seasons of life.

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If you made it to the end of this post, you are a true rockstar! I do hope that this was helpful for you and that it truly provides some actionable steps that you can take to get more focused + stay positive.

If you need more inspiration on the daily, I post every day on Instagram + I keep you motivated and accountable to those dreams of yours! I'm here for you, and I am rooting for you every step of the way!  

Do you have any tips on how you stay focused + positive? Please share with all of us in the comments below!  

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It just occurred to me how powerful what I'm about to say could be in someone's life. I just had an "aha" moment just a few minutes ago, and I knew I had to put this out there because I realized just how very true what I'm about to say has been in my life - all my life - and how impactful this could be to someone.

You know that feeling when you want something so bad, you feel that you have to force it into your life? You do everything in your power to make it happen, only to be met with resistance?  

There is nothing, and I am going to say this again - NOTHING - that can separate you from what is already yours.  

Let that sink in.  

In essence, you can not screw up what is right for you. You just can't. That job. That relationship. That dream. It does not matter what it is!  

So, if you're like me - impatient. Stop that. Stop that right now!

It is just now occurring to me just how impatient I am and how controlling I can be at times. I want things when I want it and how I want it - which tends to be immediately.

Of course, there is an opposite side to me that can be patient, but in a long-term sense. I can be patient when I have already committed to something that I know and understand is going to take time.

See, there is a difference. 

When you want something immediately, it is because your mind is saying that you have to have it now or never. On the flip side, if you know that you can't get it immediately and that it will take time, your brain will flip a different switch that says, "Okay, I either need to commit to seeing this through or it's time to throw in the towel. This is just not for me." 

I know that there are a lot of us out there that try so hard to force something that is just not right for us. Time, my friends - things take time. Nothing is ever going to happen immediately which is of high value - and the only way to receive the rewarding things in life is to be patient.

So, whether you are stuck in a place where you are just not getting the results you want or you just can't seem to ever grab a hold of the things you want, know this: There is a process, and it is happening as we speak.

That process needs to happen in order for you to get what you want. Let things develop in their own timing. Let things grow without rushing it to bloom. Enjoy the present season you are in because it will not last. Just because you do not see the physical proof of things working in your favor does not mean it isn't happening. 

There is a something beautiful about mystery. If we always got exactly what we wanted, when we wanted it, we wouldn't get to enjoy what happened along the way. We wouldn't get to experience the highs, the lows, the joy, and the pain of it all. 

Another amazing thing is that we wouldn't get to appreciate what we have unless we have already grown into the person ready for that particular event to happen. We need to grow into the person we need to be. We can't just all-of-a-sudden arrive when it's not our time.

So, what is it that you want so bad? What is it that you are forcing to happen? What is it that you are impatient about? Now is the moment to just stop worrying about when it's going to happen. Focus on letting things happen in their own timing. Do exactly what you need to do to grow toward what you want, and it will happen. It will happen, and you won't know what you did because that's exactly it; You didn't need to do anything spectacular or do cartwheels and backflips to get it. It happened, naturally.  

The best things in life happen naturally, unexpected. When's the last time you saw a flower that needed a pep talk to bloom? Never. Or a tree that had to do 1,000 pushups to grow tall? Okay, now I'm Just trying to make you laugh, but you get the point, right!

So, don't be so hard on yourself anymore, okay? You deserve nothing but THE best in life, and you will get it because there's nothing that will keep you from what's already yours. Not the mistakes you've made, the things you did or didn't do.

When something does not happen the way you expect it or want it to - you should be happy. Why? Because that means that you are getting closer to something that is right for you. You're eliminating all of the other options, and that is a good thing. 

Understand that the best things in life do take time, and guess what? God's timing is perfect. 

I want the best for you! Enjoy the journey getting to the things you want. That's the best part after all.

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So, what is it that you want in life that you are now willing to be patient for? I'd love to hear about it in the comments below.

Perfectionism. It's something that I've struggled with for all of my life, and I think it's something that a lot of us deal with in general. Is it a form of anxiety? I don't know, but it has caused a lot of anxiety in me over the years. I decided to talk about this topic for those of you who have the same struggle and who are trying to overcome it. I don't think I've necessarily overcome it, but I am miles ahead of where I was before, so that's a good sign! Maybe I can offer some insight that can help you to see perfectionism for what it is and then redefine the way you see it and break free from its grip on your life. 

I want to speak specifically to those of you who have serious dreams and aspirations and who have plans to do big things, yet have been held back in one way or the other by feelings of perfectionism. I know how it feels because that was (and at times, is) me. One thing that I can tell you from experience that will be the most important statement in this post is that perfectionism comes with a cost.

The cost?

Time. 

The reason why I say that the cost of perfection is time is because the more time you spend on visualizing the perfect plan or the perfect execution, the further and further away you get from actually achieving your goals. I'm not saying that planning things out is bad, I'm talking about reciting everything in your head a zillion times over until you finally feel that everything is perfect - which is rarely ever. Perfection is unattainable, so it is an unhealthy cycle to be in. 

So, what is the biggest threat to perfectionism and the solution to overcoming it?

Action.

When you decide to act upon your dreams rather than waiting for the perfect conditions, you not only punch perfectionism in the face (take that perfectionism!), but you build your confidence. I really believe that perfectionism is a form of insecurity because we feel as if we have to live up to certain standards - unattainable ones - and since it is created by us for us, we keep creating conditions of perfection and that cycle never really ends because it is in the mind. It is also a form of fear because what we fear is not having control over things, so we do everything in our power to control the conditions until we feel that they are ideal enough. 

One thing that I had to really learn is to distinguish perfectionism from being detail-oriented - which I now see are two very separate things. I've always been both, so knowing that being detail-oriented is a very positive trait and holding onto that while learning to let go of perfectionism has really changed the way I go about my life and the way I view things.

If this is something that you would like to work to overcome, in no particular order, here are strategies that I have used in my thinking process that have helped me so much in dealing with perfectionism.

I made this free printable for you (yes you)! Click the button below to download it instantly!

1| Don't overthink things

I tend to do this A-LOT, and I'm a prime example of someone who really can't make a decision to save her life because I tend to be an over-thinker. Overthinking is one of those time-wasters, because while thinking about all of the ins and outs of the good, the bad, and the ugly may cause you to feel a little more secure about your decision in the short-term, it will most likely lead you to many of your insecurities as well. This process will be even longer than you anticipate - we're talking years. You'll most likely come up with reasons why your idea sucks or reasons why you should just not ever do it. Ever. Perfectionism can cause you to convince yourself to believe things that aren't even true - like that you're not good enough, skilled enough, or talented enough. It's pretty overwhelming, so of course your brain will shut down out of pure exhaustion - and give up (which we want to avoid).

2| Make a decision

What is it that you want to do? What is your dream, and how will you get there? First off, making a decision to do it in the first place is your first step to overcoming feelings of perfectionism, which prevents you from ever starting. When you commit to an idea, you block out any other voice that will distract you. Decisions are hard as it is, so ticking this off from the get-go will get you moving forward rather than entertaining that dialogue of perfectionism which states that you must have this, that, and the other sorted out first before you even commit to the idea. Committing is so important because it literally switches your brain from deliberating to the process of action. 

3| Just start

Now that the tough part is over, here comes another step that will be equally hard for the perfectionist. Of course - you have to make sure everything is absolutely perfect before you start, right? Wrong. No matter where you begin, whether you are inexperienced or you are a professional, you will have to start from scratch. The preparation starts now, not at Step 1 - that was the part where you were stuck in your head. Step 3 is where you already have one foot out of the door, and you're saying, "Heeeeello World!" 

4| Follow through

No matter what feelings come up, commit to follow through with what you set out to do. It's easy for you to want to throw in the towel when things aren't turning out the way you had envisioned, but that is exactly what will happen. Things will not turn out perfect. You may even discover that the very thing that you wanted to do just doesn't give you the satisfaction you thought it would - and that is perfectly okay. The sooner you learn, the better, and the clearer things will get. 

5| Have the end goal in sight

As a perfectionist, it's easy to give up on the process if it doesn't appear the way you want it to in the beginning. If you don't see the perfect results, you may start to question yourself and then you may not give your all to see things come to pass. Things take time, and in that, it is very hard to see things perfectly aligned as we envision it. I, myself, always have this idealistic view that can get in the way of reality. There are high expectations that I set for myself, that if I don't live up to them, I feel like I'm doing something wrong, then fear creeps in. It's something that I've had to overcome with motivating myself daily and reframing my expectations.

6| Grace not perfection

It's so easy today to feel the weight of the entire world on your shoulders. There are pressures coming from everywhere to be perfect, so it can feel overwhelming when you feel like you won't ever live up to what is portrayed out there. What I have learned is that my idea of perfection will never be attainable, so I'm just going to go for it and give it my best shot. No matter what the outcome is, as long as I am staying true to myself, that is all that really matters. When you value yourself over ideals of perfection, amazing things start to happen, and you begin to see your dreams realized.

7| Let your hair down

Just be exactly who you are and you will feel no pressure to be perfect. When you realize that you are enough and that you have exactly what it takes to succeed, you will start to enjoy the process more than you ever imagined. You won't need validation from others. You won't let fear guide you - your dreams will. You will begin to see that one dream will lead you to the next.

8| Take it one day at a time 

When we visualize what we want to achieve, we usually have this fantasy in our heads about how we want it to look and how we want it to be done, which is overwhelming in itself. In creating the future you want, taking it one day at a time will get you further than trying to craft the perfect month or year or decade. For example, if you want to create a brand, you may look at other brands for inspiration and feel pressured to look so polished and put together like them. The reality is that it took that brand years to create the brand that you see today. Take it one day at a time and know that every single day you are getting closer to your vision coming full circle. It will take time, but this time it is an investment into your future.  

9| Don't compare yourself to others

It's so easy to think that in order to be successful, you have to learn every single trick of the trade, which means you'll have to read every book, go to every seminar, and watch every motivational speech every recorded just to feel secure. Don't get trapped in the idea that everyone has the answers because you will end up chasing them down instead of chasing your dreams. Getting caught up in what everyone else is doing will take a toll on your individual journey. Instead of doing what you were created to do, you will stunt your growth by getting caught up in other people's journeys. Your journey is going to look different from theirs, but it is not any less effective. Do you and the lessons and results will follow. 

10| Have faith

The process of pursuing your dreams comes with a lot of uncertainty, which can be very difficult to deal with at times. One day you may be having the best day of your life, then the next day you may feel defeated and torn. Realize that it will be a process that will be full of challenges and questions, but with faith, you will know how to get through the tough times and not lose your enthusiasm moving forward. Learn how to shake off your mistakes, learn from your failures, and keep going. You will reach a beautiful place even if the journey getting there wasn't perfect.

I really hope this was helpful and encouraging for all of you seeking to step out into the unknown. The next time you feel like everything has to be perfect before you start something, come back to this list and let it encourage you. You don't need to be perfect, just real. Chase them dreams, girlfriend! And leave perfectionism in the dust.

Psst. Just in case you missed it. Click the button below to instantly download this free printable!

What are your thoughts about perfectionism, and how has it affected your life? I'd love to chat in the comments below! 

via Style Caster

The thought of applying honey and sugar to your face may probably result in you picturing a sticky mess. Since they are both water soluble, you don't have to worry one bit, as they both rinse away leaving a brighter, smoother, and moisturized complexion. Ever since I discovered how amazing using these ingredients for my skin are, I've been hooked and use them daily. My face has never been so moisturized and smooth. Read more about it below in one of my latest Mode stories. 

Check out Why I Only Wash My Face With Raw Honey and Sugar

by Stina Abion at Mode

What are your thoughts about this skincare alternative? Would you try it? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

This post may be a little TMI (too much information) for some, but I really wanted to share my wonderful, amazing, awesome, discovery. 

I am going to start out by saying that I am not one to talk about personal hygiene let alone my underarms, but I thought this post would be very helpful to many women and (hopefully) young girls, especially those who are looking for natural alternatives in the deodorant department.

When I was a teen, I remember how irritating it was dealing with certain issues like shaving, dark underarms, deodorants not working, etc. I mean, I still deal with the same issues, but I think I've figured things out over the years.

For one, antiperspirants are a crime against humanity.

Oops, did I just say that! Yes, you heard that right. They are loaded with toxins, the main offender being aluminum, which blocks your body's natural ability to rid itself of toxins through sweating. To top it off, you're adding more toxic load to your body by using products like these, and doing more harm than good.

Commercial deodorants and antiperspirants also contain other harmful carcinogens that may cause long-term health problems with continued use. As you know, deodorants are used on a daily basis, so it's scary to think that we're exposing our bodies to these harmful toxins day in and day out. 

Okay ladies, here's another one. Please hear me when I say that sweating is a GOOD thing.

What makes it bad is when it mixes with bacteria on the skin, which causes odor. Please, please, please, make moves toward eliminating antiperspirants from your household. You are supposed to sweat naturally. 

Yes, it may sound gross, but it really isn't.

I'm not saying to completely stop using any type of deodorant, just look for ones that are naturally derived and free from chemically-derived ingredients. Look for ones that contain essential oils, coconut oil, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), and other safe ingredients. There are so many alternatives and options available these days, or you could even make one yourself (at the end of this post, I'm sharing my homemade deodorant recipe). 

I recommend the The Think Dirty app if you are interested in shopping for cleaner alternatives. It's a good resource to use when shopping around because it allows you to learn about the ingredients in beauty and personal care products and choose cleaner options.

To clarify, deodorants are used for preventing odor by killing the bacteria that causes odor, while antiperspirants block sweat by basically plugging up pores. Most products claim that they do both, so watch out for that.

The more the claim - you can bet - the more the toxins!

A bonus to switching to purely natural deodorants is that I have noticed a huge difference in the color of my underarms. I'm not saying that my underarms were black or anything, but they were enough for me to cry wolf. I'll be sharing my method for whitening underarms in a future post, but one of the main factors in the change of my underarm appearance was indeed switching to a natural deodorant. It made a huge difference. I am now confident enough to flaunt my underarms! Woot woot!

So, what is this super amazing discovery of mine that I wanted to share with you? 

Well, with my move toward a cleaner lifestyle several years ago, I started exploring different types of deodorants (natural ones) and found one that was made from a natural mineral salt. The product is called Crystal, and it's completely natural and EFFECTIVE. The way it works is that, once it's applied, it forms a barrier on the skin that prevents odor-causing bacteria from forming.  

Well, let me just say that this product is extremely effective at protecting the skin from developing any odor - not perfect, but close to it. The one that I use is the Crystal rock*. It literally is a clear crystal rock. All I do is wet it with a little bit of water, then rub it on and let it dry. 

Okay, so that's not the end of the story.

A year or so ago, I decided to try their other variety, Crystal Essence deodorant, which is basically the same thing in liquid form and with essential oils and extracts. I thought, hey, since it's the same thing, why not try it out. I tried it for a long time, and it did work "okay", but didn't work as well as the Crystal rock did. I would still develop BO, which is no bueno!

So, since I was already caught up in the whole process of trying to find something that was close to a normal deodorant stick, what I decided to do was try another natural deodorant that I had been seeing all over social media - Schmidt's. I tried the Lavender + Sage scent. Although I really loved what this company stood for, I found the product to be quite thick, and it didn't work as well as I thought it would. 

Warning: TMI again.

I found that it did not hold up as well as the Crystal rock did. My body rejected it or something because I was getting BO within the 24 hrs that I had applied it. Not kidding! I was sad that Schmidt's didn't work for me, because like I said, I really love the scents that they have to choose from.

Moral of the story: It seems that different formulas react to my body differently. 

So, anyway, after being disappointed in that failed attempt to try something that closely resembled a normal stick of deodorant, I decided to go back to my tried and true Crystal rock, but change one thing.

I decided to also apply tea trea oil as well. 

Breakthrough! The combination of the crystal rock and the tea tree oil work so amazingly well together that I have not experienced BO like I did with the other two deodorants that I tried.

And ... why did I not think of this sooner ... ? Tea tree oil is a natural antibacterial, so it prevents bacteria from forming. I apply undiluted 100% tea tree oil after I rub the Crystal rock on my skin, and - TADAAA!

The perfect deodorant. It works so well for me that I think my deodorant-searching-days are over. 

I forgot to mention that in the past, I have also tried a homemade deodorant using baking soda and coconut oil, which worked well for several months. I'm not sure why I stopped. I think it was more of the matter of convenience that it was lacking, which is why I stuck with the Crystal rock. The Crystal rock dries completely clear and never leaves any residue.

I do recommend the Crystal rock deodorant + tea tree oil if you're interested in my method that has worked well for me.

The best part is that the rock literally lasts for years and years and stays completely new the entire time. It's amazing. For those of you who are interested in purchasing the Crystal rock and tree oil, I'll leave links at the end of this post so that they're easy for you to find!

While I'm at it, I decided to create a homemade deodorant recipe for those of you who are interested in something resembling a traditional deodorant stick.

I know how hard it can be to get used to something different, so this will help to ease the transition. It's also a great way to save money as natural deodorants are pricey! 

Here is some useful information about the ingredients that I've chosen for my natural deodorant recipe and why I chose to use them specifically. That's the good part about homemade recipes, you can always tailor it to you and get the exact benefits and results out of them, naturally. 

Coconut Oil

• Antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties

• Moisturizing to the skin and low molecular weight allowing it to penetrate the skin on a deeper level

Baking Soda

• Natural deodorizer 

• Natural exfoliant

• Neutralizes pH

• Absorbs moisture and oil

• Antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties

Arrowroot Powder

• Absorbs moisture and oil

• Natural thickening agent

Tea Tree Oil

• Antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties

• Natural antiseptic

Lavender Oil

•  Anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antidepressant, antiseptic, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties

• Natural disinfectant and deodorant

• Detoxifying

• Calming  

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Homemade Natural Lavender & Tea Tree Oil Deodorant Recipe 

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Supplies

• 1/4 c coconut oil*

• 1/3 c arrowroot powder

• 1/2 c baking soda

• 20 drops lavender oil*

• 20 drops tea tree oil* 

• 1 empty deodorant container and 1 glass jar

Yield: Makes 1 deodorant stick and 1, 4 oz. jar

Add all ingredients except essential oils together in a bowl, and mix until well combined. 

Once ingredients are all well mixed, add essential oils. Mix well by using a spoon to press the ingredients together to evenly distribute the oils throughout the mixture.

The consistency will begin to resemble that of deodorant, and when pressed, will bind together to form a solid.  

Fill the emty deodorant container with the mixture and press as you go until you reach the top. 

And you're done! The consistency is just like a regular deodorant stick, but be aware that since it does contain coconut oil, it tends to get softer when exposed to warmer temperatures. You can pop it in the freezer for a few minutes to make it retain its shape.

Add any remaining mixture to an empty jar, which you can use to refill your deodorant stick when it runs out, or use out of the jar.

I hope you get to try out this recipe. It's so easy to make and is completely natural, safe, and effective. If you get to try it out, I'd love to hear about your experience. 

What are your thoughts about these natural deodorant options? I'd love to hear what you think in the comments below!

Disclosure: Links that are marked with an * are affiliate links.