Archive for the ‘ Beauty ’ Category

 

Hurraw!: An Eco-Friendly Lip Balm Giveaway

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As you know, I am a sucker for all-natural (preferably organic) beauty products, from store-bought natural cosmetics to DIY body scrubs and facial moisturizers. That being said, I also love a product that actually works.

Well, Hurraw! Balm lip balms are the best of both worlds, providing an eco-friendly product that delivers smooth, tasty kissable lips. Ever since The Boy stuffed a three-pack in my stocking for Christmas two years ago, I’ve been 100% hooked. I rarely use any different brands, and I never leave the house without my balm.

Not only are they made with vegan, raw, organic, non-toxic, fair trade ingredients (like coconut oil, jojoba oil, cacao butter and natural fruit oils), but the 20+ flavors are far from boring and make you want to lick your lips all day long. Some of my favorites are Chocolate (made with real cocoa), Black Cherry and Almond.

And now I’ve got some new favorites, since Hurraw! Balm just introduced their new line of Ayurvedic-based balms for each Dosha: Vata, Pitta & Kapha.

For those of you who aren’t familiar with the Ayurvedic approach, it’s a traditional Indian alternative
“medicine” that focuses on one’s lifestyle and unique body type. In Ayurveda, they feel that based on your individual characteristics, different foods and activities can heal or harm. I often tie some Ayurvedic techniques into my health coaching sessions, as its one of my favorite topics I studied during Nutrition School.

We all carry each of the three Doshas, but typically there are one or two over-powering ones. After taking multiple tests and digging deep to really listen to my body, I’ve found that I’m primarily a Vata type, meaning that I carry the Vata dosha in excess and need to balance that out accordingly. Thank goodness there’s a balm made just for me with almond, cardamom and rose. (I’m already in love.)

You can find our your unique body type here to see which balm would work best for you! Now for the exciting news: I’ll be giving away a VPK three-pack of these Ayurvedic balms to 3 lucky Healthy Chicks! Yes, that’s 3 packs of 3!

To enter, please do 1 or all of the following. Be sure to leave a comment on here for each task completed:

1. Simply tweet the following: Hurraw! @Healthy_Chicks@HurrawBalm are giving away 3 packs of all natural, tasty lip balms: http://healthy-chicks.com/2013/03/18/hurraw-an-eco-friendly-lip-balm-giveaway/

2. Leave a comment here on why you want to win or what your unique body type is (or you think it is). Vata, Pitta, or Kapha? *Mandatory

3. Like Healthy Chicks and Hurraw! Balm on Facbook

4. Sign up for my FREE “A Day in the Life of a Healthy Chick” weekly newsletter!

I will choose three random winners by 5 p.m. on Friday, 3/22 through Random.org. Good luck!

Morning Rejuvenation: Real Simple D.I.Y Lemongrass Body Scrub

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For the majority of the time, I prefer to simply do it myself in all aspects of life given my ability to do so. That being said, I will always pay money for a good-quality manicure, and try as I might, I will never perfect my mom’s famous Chicken Divan recipe.

Last week, I concocted my own Sugar Body Scrub for the first time. While I am a huge fan of beauty products and anything that smells good when it comes to bath supplies, I am not a fan of the harmful ingredients that often come along with them like parabens, added colors, and other chemicals. In my mind, if you can’t pronounce it or don’t recognize it, why put it on your skin, and ultimately in your body? (Same goes to food as well.)

I wanted to craft something that was simple, rejuvenating and smelled good so I chose to use Lemongrass Essential Oil I bought from Whole Foods for its fresh, earthy properties ideal for springtime. In addition, Lemongrass can be used  for a number of health benefits including  aiding sore muscles, boosting confidence and even acting as a natural deodorant! I also added in a touch of Pure Vanilla for its incredible aroma and natural soothing properties.

Simple Lemongrass & Vanilla Sugar Body Scrub

  • 1 c. raw sugar
  • 1/2 c. extra virgin olive oil, cold pressed
  • 1 TB pure vanilla
  • Few drops Lemongrass Essential Oil

To Do: Mix the raw sugar and olive oil together with a wooden spoon. Once well blended, add in the vanilla and Lemongrass drops. Store in an air-tight container or jar.

Apply a small amount to dry or wet skin, smooth on thoroughly and then rinse off for a refreshing, relaxing skin detox. It works wonders for exfoliation, resulting in incredibly silky hands, feet, arms and legs.

XoXo,


A Luscious Kind of Afternoon (and My First Experience at Lush Cosmetics)

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From the moment I woke up this afternoon, I knew it was going to be one of those days, you know those really juicy, exciting, sunshiny days. Of course, it didn’t hurt that the sun was shining bright as I crawled out of bed, and it’s an expected low 60s in Boston today.

Since I met with one of my clients this morning on Newbury Street for a health counseling session, I decided to pop into Lush Cosmetics since I was already in the area. Shockingly, I have never been inside although I’ve heard many amazing things about their company, that prides itself on offering all-natural, fresh, organic beauty care.

From the moment I walked through the front door, I was absolutely in awe by all the amazing products they carry, including everything from organic body butters and deodorants to shampoo bars and facial cleansers.

{oh the luscious bath supplies…}

{and endless soaps & gift packages!}

I was particularly fascinated by their all-natural face mask line, as I’m a sucker for anything that’ll keep my skin looking brighter, clearer and fresher (Re: “Food for Thought: Super Skin Clearing Eats” to hear more about my skin struggles & obsession with natural beauty treatments).

{check out the variety of lovely face masks, from Be Seaweed to Oatfix}

After trying several on my hand, and talking with the sales attendant about my skin type, I decided on the Catastrophe Cosmetic. With soothing calamine and antioxidant-rich blueberries, this mask is recommended for oily, problem skin which I tend to get from time to time.

{I can’t wait to test out this gentle healing, calming mask that’ll clear blemishes & gunk!}

After testing out the face masks, I decided to look into the hair care, as I find it particularly hard to find high-quality, organic hair products at an affordable price in the Boston area. Luckily, Lush has a plethora of shampoo bars, conditioners, moisturizers, and even safe, all natural henna hair dyes, a perfect alternative to chemical treatments.

{I’m making it a point to come back before summer to try the Caca Marron that turns brown hair into auburn, which the sales guy thought would look best on me! How neat?}

Since I wasn’t quite ready to dye my hair, I decided on a Karma Koba shampoo bar instead, with a delightful scent and blend of essential oils including orange, patchouli and pine. No chemicals, parabens or scary ingredients in this unique bar that claims to last for 80+ washes!

{Shampoo bars? That’s right! Just lather with water and then use like ordinary shampoo}

While I could have literally lived in Lush for weeks (seriously, I think I told the employees that a dozen times), I decided to leave with just two desired items, plus a whole lot of admiration for the company. I will 100% be back for more, and can’t wait to test out my newest goods. The best part? The splurge is worth it, since you can feel good about using products made with natural, organic, eco-friendly ingredients good for the earth and your body!

Have you ever visited Lush? Do you experiment with all-natural cosmetics? What’s your favorite beauty product to splurge on?

Food for Thought: Super Skin-Clearing Eats

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{Who new artichokes could actually promote skin health? image source}

On Saint Patrick’s Day morning, instead of waking up to green eggs & ham, I woke up to a full-fledged breakout. Ever since I made the decision to go off of oral contraceptives for my health and my body, I’ve been feeling wonderful – I’ve lost weight, gained energy, and simply feel “lighter” and more healthy in general. However, when making my personal, well-thought-out decision, I was also aware of one possible side effect; that is my skin flaring up due to a change in hormones. Unfortunately, I think the inevitable is happening.

“Really, I’m dealing with acne in my mid-20s! Why?! WHY?!!” I moaned and groaned to my boyfriend, my sister, and quite frankly anyone who would listen. Having struggled with severe acne as a teenager, I thought those days were far behind me, but when I looked in the mirror the other day, those difficult years came flashing back at me.

Fortunately, I know much more about my health now (what works for me, what doesn’t work for me) and am also learning more and more everyday about natural solutions and home remedies. This has promoted me to go almost completely organic with my skin care routine, change the way I shop for beauty products, and make better choices when it comes to my diet. However, even with my extra care to detail, I was still plagued with a skin flare-up and I’m almost 100% positive hormones are to blame.

So what now? Crawl in a hole and pout? While that was kind of my thought process the other day, I decided to be a big girl and face the situation like an adult. I forced myself to go to work being my perky self, even though I have to admit my confidence level was not very high.

Fortunately, working at a spa does have its perks, one being full access to a plethora of knowledgeable estheticians  who were actually willing to listen to me. I’m happy to say I am scheduling a facial this Thursday to deal with the route of the problem and hopefully reduce some of the blemishes and redness.

But I just had to ask, “What oh what do I do in the meantime. Are there any natural solutions?”

Luckily, my esthetician friend was happy to recommend some natural aids for me. And guess what? They’re all foods I actually know and love! Talk about hitting two birds with one stone.

Here’s the Top  5 Skin-Clearing Foods She Reccommended:

1. Pumpkin – High in antioxidants, pumpkin has been used as a natural beauty source for years. Luckily, I already own a pumpkin enzyme peel called “Youth Accelerator” by Sircuit which works like a charm every time. It’s 100% natural, and made with unbuffered pumpkin to promote luscious, healthy looking skin. Want to add pumpkin into your diet? Add to your morning smoothie, oatmeal or even mix into yogurt for a delicious sweet treat.

2. Yams/Sweet Potatoes – Better stock up on my sweet potatoes! With high levels of Vitamin A and C, yams are known to speed up acne healing, according to this article “Super Foods for Acne” on Livestrong. My favorite ways to get this golden food into my diet is boiling in water, and then mashing up with a dash of cinnamon, and some cumin or cajun seasoning for a zesty flavor and anti-inflammatory benefits. I also love slicing these babies into thin strips to make sweet potato “fries.” Season with salt, pepper, dried parsley, garlic and some red pepper flakes.

3. Soy – I was surprised by this one! While I’m not a huge fan of commercial soy milk due to its additives, I do enjoy snacking on edamame, the soybean in its purest form. A little salt & pepper and you’re golden. Dunk in low-sodium tamari for a delicious finish.

4. Artichokes – Great for skin health and anti-aging, while being a delectable additive to homemade pizza, pasta, and salads!

5. Probiotics – This one is a must. I’m totally going to buy myself some probiotic-packed natural yogurt this evening at Whole Foods. While acne can be caused by “bad” bacteria, probiotics help add some of the “good” bacteria back in, reducing inflammation and helping to clear up skin issues. Many people take probiotic supplements, but you can also find them packed into your favorite yogurts; just read the label to make sure!

Other than these five tips, I’m also paying extra attention to hydration, taking my daily Fish Oil supplement I got from Xtend-Life, sipping herbal tea throughout the day, making sure to get my Zzz’s, and trying to simply relax & give myself a little bit of a break.

What are your favorite natural skin remedies, particularly for hormonal breakouts? Any suggestions will be HIGHLY appreciated!

XoXo,


The Morning Refresher: Carrot, Apple, Ginger Juice

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{as you can see, I couldn’t resist drinking some before the picture}

In the Mix:

  • 4 small to medium carrots, organic if possible
  • 1 small apple, organic (I used Granny Smith because that’s what I had on hand, but any juicy apple works)
  • handful of mixed greens (I used a blend of arugula, spinach, and romaine)
  • one inch cut of fresh ginger
  • juice of 1/2 small lemon

Use your juicer to blend the carrots, apple, greens and ginger. Add lemon juice at the end for an extra zing!

My Top Four Benefits of This Juice: Anti-aging from the beta-carotene in carrots (which works as a powerful antioxidant), skin-clearing (from vitamin A and liver detoxification properties of carrots), Cholesterol Control (the pectin in apples can lower LDL, your “bad cholesterol”), de-bloating (from the ginger and lemon, especially in the a.m)

SuperFood Roundup: Stock Up on These Healthy Natural Supplements

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Yesterday, I took a trip to Whole Foods and decided to browse their Whole Body section. I was particularly interested in all the natural supplements and powders they had to offer, as I’ve heard so much talk about various super foods. I was overwhelmed and amazed with the many powders, supplements, and natural remedies I came across. While I was extremely tempted to go home with $100 worth of these miracle supplements, I decided to do a little research first. After all, I’m not made of money.

Instead, I picked up a few packets of a Green SuperFood blend made by Amazing Grass. You simply add the packets to milk or water, and in an instant you can enjoy a glass full of superfoods. Is there really any better way to start the day? I decided to try the natural green blend, as well as the chocolate flavor, which was absolutely delicious might I add. The blends contain a variety of natural supplements including organic wheat grass, barley grass, alfalfa, spirulina, spinach, chlorella, maca, acai, rose hips and green tea just to name a few.

Do these supplements sound foreign to you? I decided to do a little research myself to see what the best natural supplements on the market are, and what exactly they do to our bodies. Here are some of my top finds:

Maca – This adaptogenic root is famous for its natural effects on the body, from energy boosting to stress regulation. Most common in the powder form, this natural wonder can be sprinkled onto your morning oats, added into green smoothies and milkshakes, or even mixed in with yogurt and berries. Here are some of its many befits:

  • Increases energy
  • Ignites your libido, increasing sexual drive
  • Helps to enhance fertility in men & women
  • Regulates hormone levels
  • Can aide memory, learning and mental health
  • Promotes healthy teeth & bones (SMILE)

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Spirulina: This natural supplement comes in tablet, flake and powder form. Containing protein, vitamins, minerals, Omega 6 Fatty Acids, chlorophyll and additional phytonutrients, it’s no wonder this natural supplement has a great rap. Some of its many benefits include:

  • Supports a healthy immune system
  • Helps to aide digestion
  • Reduces fatigue and contributes to natural energy in the body
  • Helps keep appetite under control
  • Can reduce uncomfortable effects of inflammation

[source]

Chlorella – This green algae is packed with protein, minerals, vitamins and a number of essential nutrients. Here are some of its main benefits:

  • Helps to naturally detoxify your body
  • Boosts your immune system, keeping you happy & healthy
  • Helps regulate digestion
  • Can freshen your breath (um, a natural tic tac replacement?)
  • Helps to maintain a regular blood pressure

Acai – This superfruit is being raved about all over, from the Dr. Oz show to your local health food store. Pick up a bag of dried acai berries, powder or supplements to experience the befits yourself. Some of the main benefits include:

  • Promotion of healthy, natural weight loss
  • Increase in natural energy
  • Packed with antioxidants which help make you look (and feel) even younger than ever!
  • Antioxidants may also fight off diabetes, heart disease and even cancer

[source]

Have you experimented with these natural supplements? If so, which ones? What is your favorite way to incorporate them into your diet?

My First Time at Exhale Spa: Core Fusion, Pampering & Ultimate Bliss

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If you’ve been reading my blog for a while, you know that I am a huge fan of Core Fusion DVDs. Once I became hooked on Core Fusion Body Sculpt (and made my obsession loud and clear), creator and mastermind behind Core Fusion Fred DeVito was nice enough to send me both Thighs & Glutes and Bootcamp as well. Just as expected, I fell in love with each and every workout I tried. I loved the variety, the intense toning benefits, and all the other physical changes I could see in my body.

So when Exhale Spa in Boston’s Back Bay invited me to take a live Core Fusion class, I jumped at the offer. A real, live Core Fusion class, for me? How could I possibly decline?

The minute I walked into Exhale, I felt like I was in another world…on some kind of serene spa getaway. “Wow, now I can see why people rave about this place,” I thought to myself. As I waited for the Director of Guest Experience to give me a personal tour, I was immediately offered a cup of hot tea and water to sip on. If that’s not customer service at its best, I don’t know what is.

As I toured the building, I “oohed” and “ahhed” my way through each step I took. Everything was just so…beautiful and I was loving every minute of it. The staff members were friendly, the studio space was bright and clean, and even the bathrooms were impressive. They were fully equipped with lockers, a Eucalyptus steam room, robes and slippers for guest comfort, showers, changing rooms, and pretty much any beauty essential you could think of. Yes, they even had shower caps, spray-on deodorant, RAZORS, and delectable lotions all for me (and you).

Then came the workout: a real live Core Fusion class. Let me tell you, it was not for the faint of heart. It was tough, and  it was challenging, and my thighs were shaking 90% of the time, but I loved every minute of it because I pushed myself. At first I was intimidated by all the other perfectly-sculpted women in the room, but the instructor, Denise, made the class comfortable and fun. She energetically led the group through a series of arm, thigh, gluteus and abs workouts, all while correcting our form and pushing us to hold the poses a little longer, try a little harder. And that I did.

I must say, a live Core Fusion class was much more challenging than the DVDs, mostly because you get the benefits of having an instructor face-to-face to push you and correct your form. I was proud of myself for completing a full hour-long Core Fusion session, even though at times I wanted to give up. There’s no doubt about it that you get a full body workout, and that to me is worth the money.

After my sweat session, I robed up like a queen and hit the Eucalyptus steam room, followed by a nice, long shower. I then used every single beauty product I could get my hands on, and finished my spa experience with a cup of hot tea. I was in heaven.

I highly recommend taking a class at Exhale Spa to anyone who wants to challenge themselves, all while reaping the benefits of a blissful spa experience. I most definitely will be back, but in the meantime will continue to practice the Core Fusion DVDs at home. But I must admit: If it were up to me, I think I’d live at Exhale Spa. Any place that provides a full-body workout followed by pampering at the spa is golden to me.

Interested in trying Core Fusion yourself? Snag the Exhale: Core Fusion Collection for only $20.49 on Amazon. This includes the Body Sculpt (my favorite), Thighs & Glutes and Pilates Plus workouts.

Have you ever taken a class at Exhale Spa? What was your experience like? Have you tried any of the Core Fusion DVDs yet?

XoXo,


Hump Day Lesson of the Day: Learn to Check the Labels on Your Makeup for Parabens and Other Toxins

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[source]

Happy Wednesday ladies, and congrats on making it half way through the day. Now time for our weekly Hump Day Lesson of the day! This week we’re going to talk makeup. I know, I know, makeup on a healthy living website? Get outta’ here! You know nothing about fashion! Well that may be true, but hold up just one second there; shopping for the right makeup has a lot more to do with your health than you may first think.

If you’ve been reading my blog for a while now, you know that I’m a firm believer in reading labels. No, not the labels on designer jeans, but labels on your food. Well lately, I’ve been almost just as serious as reading labels on my cosmetics.

It all started last week when I began breaking out like whoa. Seriously, my face is a disaster right now. I’m blaming it partially on stress, because as we know stressful times can cause for beauty disasters, but I’m blaming the other portion on my makeup.

When was the last time you read the labels of your perfume, concealer or powder? Until the other day, I never had; I just never thought of it I guess. But once I took a look at my concealer, I was shocked at the number of ingredients in it, not to mention many of which I couldn’t even pronounce. Scary. I also noticed the constant reappearance of the word paraben, and I knew it wasn’t a good thing.

Not only are parabens linked to cancer and hormone disruption, but they also can lead to skin irritation. Right then, a lightbulb went off for me. Since I am Ms. Sensitive Skin, I really don’t think I should be using products containing toxins and irritants, especially those that could be detrimental to my health. No thank you.

Luckily, Skin Deep has put together a cosmetic database so you can easily browse safe, chemical-free cosmetics like Burt’s Bees and Body Organic. Think of it as the Whole Foods of makeup and cosmetics: all healthy things in one spot.

Needless to say, after a little research, my makeup bag got a makeover. (I also washed my brushes – can’t hurt!) I figure if I feed my body with clean, good-for-you food, why not do the same for my skin?

When was the last time you checked your makeup labels? Are the ingredients in your cosmetics important to you? What are some of your favorite products?

Friday Favorites: On Coconut Oil, Restaurant Week Boston and More!

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Happy Friday everyone. Hope you all had a good week, or at least managed to get by. Since it’s Friday and on Fridays I share my favorite things of the week, here goes!

Coconut Oil: Ever since The Boy sifted through my hundreds of perfumes and lotions and told me how bad for my skin/body they are, I’ve been extra conscious of reading labels. Do you know how many toxins are in that stuff? I get most of my creams from Bath & Body and Victoria’s Secret but was clueless as to what was in it and how many ingredients they contained. If I wouldn’t eat something bad for my body/with ingredients I can’t pronounce, then why the heck would I put it on my skin? Big no no in the health realm.

Anyway, I discovered the two tubs of coconut oil I’ve had in my cabinet forever, and decided to have a little fun with them. First I hit up Google to research the benefits of coconut oil, and was amazed at how many there are! From being used as an eye makeup remover and moisturizer to hair conditioner and a digestion aid, coconut oil is THE BOMB when it comes to all natural remedies. It felt so good on my sensitive skin when I used it to remove my heavy mascara last night, and I even put some in my hair and it still feels silky – not to mention smells absolutely delicious – this morning. Go coconut oil! Who knew?

Pretty Nail Polish: Ever since my roommate and I came across this gorgeous nail polish color in a magazine – Ballet Slippers by Essie -we’ve been dying to get our hands on some. How perfect is this color for spring? And since it’s a nude pink, it can be professional, pretty and sexy all at the same time. Unfortunately we didn’t have any colors even resembling a pale pink, so we settled for some purples, pinks and oranges we found around the apartment. Still pretty, and fun if I do say so myself!

Flowery Dresses & Scarves: The other day on my lunch date, I wanted to look pretty and wear a dress, but knew it was 40 degrees out still. But when the sun is out, I still find any excuse to wear a dress so I made some modifications. I wore my favorite spring dress with a grey button-down sweater, brown leggings and my favorite brown boots. Not too shabby. Have you broken out any of your spring-wear yet? Are you one of those girls who wear dresses all throughout winter? ‘Cause I sure try to!

Restaurant Week Boston: Seriously, what is better than a whole two weeks…dedicated to discounted meals at all the best restaurants in the city? This is my first year taking part in Restaurant Week Boston and I couldn’t be more excited. This afternoon I have a special date planned at The Melting Pot with two very special people. I’ve never been to The Melting Pot before, so I can’t wait to get my dipping on! For just $20.11 you get a three course fondue experience: your choice of salad, main entree (I’m totally going for the Chicken Provencal and Chicken & Vegetable Potstickers) and my favorite part: dessert. I’ll be sure to take lots of pictures and let you know how it goes! Have any of you ever been to The Melting Pot? I’ve been dying to go for months!

Love Generation: This song by Bob Sinclar is getting me through the morning. It’s so feel-good and springy. Totally loving it. Download and listen to it here. Oh, and if you need another pick-me-up, check out one of my favorite posts from the past “Bring Your Inner Beauty OUT.” Reading it always makes me feel good!

What are you loving this week? You know I always love to hear all your thoughts!

XoXo,

EEK It’s That Time of Month Again: Natural Cures for Bloat, Cramps and PMS!

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I haven’t been able to sleep for the past two hours. No, it isn’t due to a bad dream nor the fact that I’m over-analyzing yet again. This time, it’s merely a case of good ol’ period cramps. Sorry for too much information here, but holy OUCH. The “dot” (as my mom likes to call it) sure is comin’ in like a lion just like the weather. But luckily, I’ve got some all-natural home remedies to make these next few days as comfortable as possible, and hopefully as the saying goes it’ll go out like a lamb and I’ll move on with my life.

Until then, here are a few tips to deal with “it” on your own – you know the healthy, easy, all-natural way. Hope they help!

For the Bloat: Let’s face it, being bloated is one of the absolute worst things for a woman. There’s nothing fun about going to bed feeling good about yourself, then waking up feeling like you’re about to give birth to a very large food baby. Not to mention the swelling, the pain and the fact that your favorite jeans won’t zip. Looks like it’s yet another day for leggings! Then again, you could always do the whole “unbutton your pants” trick but I don’t think your coworkers will appreciate that. Anyway, back to the point. You are not doomed to be bloated for good! Here are my fave remedies:

  • Sip on herbal tea throughout the day. I find peppermint, chamomile and ginger are the most soothing for times like these. Tea can help relax the stomach and make it easier for you to digest food throughout the day.
  • Carry around a LARGE water bottle throughout the day, and keep refilling it…constantly. I don’t know what I’d ever do without my Life is Good nalgene.
  • Run it out. I know this may be the last thing on your mind, but exercising helps loosen the muscles and reduce bloating tremendously. Throw on your sneakers and go for a nice, easy walk or run. You’ll get some fresh air too!
  • Eat lots of water-rich fruits and veggies like berries, watermelon, cantaloupe and cucumber. This’ll help flush all the bad stuff out of your system!

For the Cramps: Usually I don’t get too crampy, but this morning is definitely an exception, and it’s totally not fun. I feel like I can’t even get out of my bed. It’s that bad. While I’d love to stay in bed all day under the covers watching sodes of Sex and the City, that’s totally not going to happen. Fortunately I’ve got some cures for those awful cramps as well:

  • Use a heating pad, or a homemade corn bag like the one I have on my tummy right now. I’ve been a huge fan of corn bags since high school, as they are my go-to cure for cramps, bad days and stomach aches. Just heat it up in the mic for a few minutes and lay it on your stomach for instant relief.
  • Chew on some ginger or sip on some hot ginger tea. This miracle herb is known to help all kinds of belly troubles, including bloating, gas, nausea and of course cramps. Forget Tums! Tame your pain the natural way.
  • Go for a walk. It will loosen up tight muscles, in effect reducing your cramps tremendously.
  • Lie down and breathe. Simple yoga stretches work wonders on cramps as well!
  • Make like a kid and take a warm bath. Add in some aromatherapy perfumes for ultra relaxation. Ahh…

For the ‘Tude:

  • Read a book or something else that will distract you, and help engage your mind on something else.
  • Sweat it out with a kickboxing or cycling class. Punch away your anger ‘n’ stress!
  • Treat yourself to your favorite comfort food. C’mon...it’s only one day.
  • Deep breaths. OK, now take another. Now doesn’t that feel good?
  • Yoga! Sign up for a class tonight.
  • Clean the house (or even just your room). It’s amazing what that can do your for mood!
  • Stay far away from your boyfriend. Kidding. Sorta.

What are your go-to miracle tips when dealing with “Aunt Flow?” Please share (Don’t be shy)!