Not your ordinary Holiday gift inspiration!

in , , ,

It's that time of the year again guys!!! Lights everywhere, people singing, stores getting crowded, and money "mysteriously" flying out of our wallets like free birds. And don't even get me started on the post-Holiday remorse we get once the credit card bill hits home! But what if we could give all that shopping a meaning other than showing affection towards our loved ones? What if we could help our planet with every dollar? And no, I don't mean making a donation on someone else's behalf (even though I love that type of gift, most people don't appreciate it!). This type of giving involves your loved ones getting their awesome gifts while your Benjamin Franklins make a difference in our planet. Yeap! All that is very much possible! I’ve been doing it for 2 years now, not only for the Holidays but every day, by looking for and shopping eco-friendly and charity-loving brands. To save you guys the hours of research, here are some of the gifts I have in mind this year. I hope you like them as much as I do! <3

 

Sunnies: ever thought about buying cool shades that give eye-care to people in need? Well, these are it! For women and men. TOMS is revolutionizing they way we shop completely!

Bags: Let’s be honest ladies…we can never have enough bags in our closet. Something that makes me truly happy though, is receiving a vegan and eco-friendly bag that looks like actual leather but is made from recycled plastic bottles and other cruelty-free materials. Here are some great options. For women and men (briefcases).

Scarves: Now this brand has me completely head over heels! Scarves that are not only fashionable but are blessed with 4 knots in each corner representing Love, Adventure, Happiness and Mystery AND also give back big time! For each one you purchase, the owner (Matt) designs a blessed blankie for homeless children and doggie beds for homeless dogs.

Winter Booties: This topic is HUGE!!! I’m sure you’ve all heard of UGGS but did you know there’s an overload of cruelty behind them? Even though they are made from wool and companies have painted and sold us this peaceful and beautiful picture of men and sheep hugging while they are being shed, reality is…THAT IS NOT THE CASE! Sheep get tortured and suffer tremendously with some of them bleeding to death because of the brusque treatment. Click here to read more. Fortunately, Pammies have come to the rescue! These incredibly soft and comfy booties are made from recycled polyester, TV screens and other vegan and eco-friendly materials!!

Cruelty-free & Natural Makeup: In case you babes didn’t know, most beauty products are not only toxic but also tested on animals in horrendous ways. Therefore, I’m always looking for natural and kinder alternatives and Tarte fits this concept completely. Most of my makeup is by Tarte. Plus, their packaging designs are flawless!

Clothing with a heart: This brand does not only have fabulous day-to-day essentials with cool designs but they are all fairtrade and provide school uniforms to girls in Nepal for each clothing piece sold! This tee is by far my fave! It helps victims of Nepal’s earthquake too.

Eco Yoga mats: For all yoga and planet-lovers, this is a must! JadeYoga produces yoga mats entirely made from renewable tree rubber with amazing colors AND plant a tree for every mat purchased!

Eco Skateboard: Now this is what I like to call “flying through the streets without leaving a trace”! These skateboards are made from ocean waste (recycled fishing net), vegetable oil and more.

Diamonds: Who doesn’t like jewelry? Specially when it’s the type of design that involves ethical diamonds and charities that educate and empower women! Unleashed diamonds is reshaping the diamond industry BIG time! (PS: Santa.. I want this necklace please!!! ;) )

Reclaimed Wood Clock that plants trees: This entire store has incredible products made from recycled materials and plants trees for each one bought.

Eco coffee mug: I have this one at home and LOVE it! It is made from bamboo and keeps the temperature of your tea or coffee hot for hours!!

Make it yourself: In my opinion, there’s nothing that shows more dedication and love than a gift that is actually made by the person who gives it to you. I saw this little baby and thought it was a cute and delicate gift idea or even home décor. All you need is a mason jar, gold paint, and a plant.

 

 

 

Raw vegan food....Is it the third week already?!

in , , ,

Wow guys. This Matthew Kenney Cuisine course is slowly coming to an end with a bittersweet taste. On one hand, I'm truly excited to graduate but on the other hand I'm not ready to let go of the amazing people I've met, our Chefs, or the kitchen where we made colorful magic happen. I'm honestly already meditating about taking Level 2 next year. How about you? Any of you interested in learning more about the healing power of raw vegan food or the infinite recipes that will change the way you view food? If so, I have some great news for you!!! If you reserve your spot for December or next year before the end of 2015, you can get 15% off your tuition with the code "WaterThruSkin". Just email admissions@matthewkenneycuisine.com with your information, the course you would like to take, and the discount code. You can take it at any of their locations (Miami, LA, Maine, Thailand!). Like Christmas in November! ;)

Now, back to cuisine this week we learned how to make raw vegan cheeses, water kefir, buckwheat granola, raw vegan chocolate, coconut yogurt, tiramisu, zucchini tartare and other yummy recipes! Let's start with the vegan cheeses. Who knew they could taste so good! We also learned how to create our own flavors by adding or replacing some ingredients from MKC's original cheese recipe. I made a shiitake & black pepper cheese and then a "brie" cheese topped with a raspberry & basil sauce. (If you decide to take the course, this is one of your exams. Cheese plating!)

Buckwheat granola. Even though this might sound common and simple, this granola is very different, starting with the buckwheat ingredient instead of oatmeal. Buckwheat has more protein and nutrients than oats. We also learned how to make coconut yogurt from scratch and I layered it with the granola, some raspberries, bananas, pomegranate and agave.

And one of my favorites: Zucchini Avocado Tartare. I don't know what it is about this recipe...maybe it's the colors and flavors, or the avocado or the fact that it's so easy to make, but I could honestly eat this every day! Avocado, Zucchini, lemon juice, olive oil and flowers. Simple yet refreshingly delicious!

Last but not least, we also visited the Farmers Market in Santa Monica as a class to get any extra ingredients we wanted for our cheese plate exam. The Farmers Market is a few blocks long and absolutely wonderful!! You'll get to see and taste exotic veggies, fruits and herbs you might have never seen or heard of before like Buddha's fingers or the light pink raspberries (combination of the orange and red ones). How about that!? <3

Stay tuned for the next post on Monday (and the final one since graduation is this Friday!!) about MKC.

To read about my Week 1 and 2 at MKC, click here.

To see some recipes, click here. I'll also be sharing some more in the next few days. xoxo

 

Second week of yummy green knowledge!

in , ,

Last Friday marked the end of our second week at Matthew Kenney Culinary. We still have two more to go and the best recipes are yet to be covered: Raw vegan cheeses and chocolate!!! How about that?! For every soul outthere who uses "addiction to cheese and chocolate" as a reason not to go vegan, that excuse has reached its expiration date my friends. NO VALIDA anymore! Honestly guys... possibilities are endless! We can pretty much make any non-vegan recipe vegan and even raw vegan.

A few things you should know about MKC's Raw Vegan Cuisine courses:

-You don't have to be a raw vegan or vegan (there's probably only two or three vegan students out of the 12 of us in class), a food expert, or a Chef (I've never taken a cooking class in my life!) to take this course. You just have to have the right attitude and be serious about it since you'll be surrounded by people who are actually looking to become Chefs. You are expected to wear your Chef uniform at all times, have your hair tied up and nails clean (no polish), do dishes, clean your station and be present in class every day from 8-2. Yes! You are a student again and expected to show respect towards your teachers and classmates, and take exams almost every Friday. I know I know... I freaked out too but the minute we started going over the recipes and the MKC methodology I immediately knew I had made the right choice. 

Let's start with the MKC methodology: 

-A raw vegan cuisine course (no animal bi-products are used and no ingredient is heated over 115F to preserve enzymes and nutrients)

-Any leftovers of ingredients or recipes you don't want to take home go directly into the compost bin, which is later given to the school across the street to be used for their soil. 

-MKC works only with local farmers

-EVERYTHING is made from scratch (nothing processed, chemical or toxic)

-Colors are everything & you can create masterpieces on your plate (my favorite part!)

-Their restaurant "Plant Food & Wine" (below the MKC "lab" on Abbot Kinney) grows its own herbs and flowers.

And I could go on for hours but let's just leave it at Matthew Kenney Culinary had me at hello! 

Something else I've practiced a lot throughout the past two weeks is meditation/patience, discipline and "ahimsa". Three things I was not expecting to encounter while cooking. The whole discipline concept starts with me getting up every day around 5.30/6am. I haven't done that since I left the corporate world almost 8 months ago! To be honest, a part of me is loving it! I get to enjoy my morning coffee in LA's cold sunrise temperatures, walk Coco around Venice, practice yoga, make myself a Vanilla Chai vegan protein shake, and then head out to class, which is only an 8-minute walk from where I'm staying. Now, meditation and patience...two tricky words that are inseperable. I had my first encounter with patience the day we were told we would have to practice our knife skills (and exact cut measurements) on veggies and fruits for 60 minutes. Right there I knew it! Patience would be key. And the beautiful part about patience is that, once you've accepted and befriended it, meditation follows and takes over your body out of the blue. Specially in cuisine where you NEED to be fully present while cutting, cooking and plating. If you are not there- patiently- and you don't connect with the veggies, fruits, colors, and scents not only will you be missing an incredible experience but you won't be able achieve the results you are looking for. 

And lastly, "ahimsa". As most of you yogis might know, "ahimsa" means non-harm in Sanskrit. And believe it or not, is the name I've given my knife. I've realized that if I treat my knife  (above all its blade) with proper care, respect and love, it will show the same respect, love and care towards me. As crazy and funny as it may sound, I haven't cut myself a single time throughout the past two weeks. Let's hope this love affair grows strong! 

Now that I've covered all those points, here are some of the recipes I learned last week. :) 

xoxo

ps: To read more about Week 1 at MKC or to find out more about their courses, click here.


Between watches.... eco-friendly & spiritual.

in

You might be looking at these photos going all “what the hell?!” on me. Yes, two are beautiful wood watches that SHOWS TIME, while the other one is an arm-piece based on the whole concept of living in the moment and stealing time back! And YES, the three of them have become my everyday companions! You see, my life is a little more complicated than any 27 year old’s. My lifestyle is no black and white but it’s the lifestyle that is shaded with multi colors and sprinkled with glitter. Monday through Friday I'm usually running between meetings for the blog (except for now that I'm taking a raw vegan 4-week cooking course from 8-2) for which I need to know time. I need a watch that keeps me on schedule and either rushes me or gives me a second to relax and work on my Uyaji breath. That brings us to the “other me”. The “me” after meetings and during weekends. The “me” that became a yoga teacher, the “me” that is vegan, the “me” that has been involved in philanthropy since the age of 16 and shops brands that are sustainable and give back… the “me” that started this blog to make a difference. For that part of my lifestyle I need my NOW arm-piece. It’s my reminder that once I'm done with work, time ceases to exist. It’s all about the moment. My yoga practice. My family. My friends. My dog. This blog. Me! Time loses significance and Timebandit’s NOW arm-piece serves as a reminder for the moments I forget to be present and to just simple be… be there and be one with everything and everyone that surrounds me.

Now, less about me and more about these amazing products.

WeWood & Jord Wood Watches: Let’s cut to the chase. We’ve all seen products made out of wood in today’s market, right? I don’t know about you guys but I’ve always wondered how they could be called “eco-friendly” or “sustainable” if trees are being cut down to make these products. Well, these two brands had my answer.

JORD Watches: It focuses on sustainability, efficiency, and experiential living. A brand that designs and creates watches with a value that goes far beyond the ability to tell how much times has passed. This brand's watches are not only setting a new level for wood watches but are also all about making time count! To JORD, "moments are bigger than minutes and a watch should tell more than time." All designs are made from different sustainable wood parts and have enough elegance to be worn to meetings or on any casual day. The Dover Koa & Black is my favorite one and has become my weekday must! It came with a beautiful wood box too, which I'm using as my jewelry box. Click here to receive a $20 gift card to buy yourself a Jord Wood Watch. :)

WeeWood: This brand uses reclaimed wood that is more than 20 years old and is 100% recycled to make the most delicate, fashionable, sporty AND elegant watches and sunglasses out there. And, as if not cutting trees to make wood products was not beautiful enough, WeWood plants a tree for every product sold! WeWood is all about the design with a green heart for every personality. What can be better than that? 

Timebandit’s Steal Time Back: These jewels! I never imagined I would find a product so simple yet with a powerful concept. Living in the moment is everything. If you are present, you feel and breathe and drink and taste every detail that is happening in front you. These arm-pieces serve as our daily reminder that sometimes we just have to let go and live! Live every second to the fullest without focusing on the fact that another second has passed us by. And, like all the brands I choose to write about, this one loves to give back too… in a big way! 50% of their profits goes to help children in need. So, what are you guys waiting for? Get your own “Time” machine, be present, and give back at the same time. I’m thinking of getting one for each of my family members and those I love, but shhh… it’s a surprise. Don’t tell anyone! ;) 

The Art of Raw Vegan Food

in , , ,

Hello from LA!!

As you guys might've already seen on my Instagram, I've relocated to LA to take my love towards animals and our earth to the next level by taking Matthew Kenney's Culinary 4-week raw vegan course. Week 1 is over and this has honestly been an eyeopening and wonderful experience already! Not only because I'm learning the powerful basics of a raw plant-based diet and the healing power of foods but also because throughout the past week I've discovered a side of me I didn't know existed. A creative side. After spending 5 years working in the Private Banking industry and 4 years studying International Business in college, I was taught to see (and was used to seeing) life in numbers. Everything was either black or white, even when it came to cooking. Until now! It's been only 7 days and I have learned to get out of my comfort zone and dare to play with ingredients and colors fearlessly. I've also discovered that plating is a big factor when it comes to serving food. Even if you're cooking and serving it for yourself. Believe it or not, besides food being our medicine (or slowest form of poison), the way we serve it can very much brighten up our day or sadden it. Since day 1 at MKC, we've learned to combine colorful raw ingredients like beets, carrots, cabbage, microgreens and beautiful flowers that have managed to open up my mind to a new blissful side of gastronomy. Not to mention the mouthwatering flavors of the recipes we've been preparing. I'm sharing a few pictures of the recipes I made during the past few days in the hopes that I get you a little excited about raw vegan food, but most of all, excited about getting out that comfort zone and trying new things. Specially, cooking consciously. For your health and the future of our planet. I'll also keep sharing more details of this course with you as the weeks go by but, in the meantime, you can find out more by visiting www.matthewkenneycuisine.com. 

PS: I've never EVER taken a cooking class and somehow managed to create the dishes below, so there's really no such excuse as "I could never do that". I'm literally starting from 0 here too and possibilities are endless. You just have to believe, let go and have fun! :)

*In case you guys don't know, raw cuisine is just like veganism- in the sense that no animal products of any kind are consumed- but goes a step further by not cooking anything above 118F to preserve the enzymes and nutrients of each ingredient. Like the name says it, everything is "Raw", unprocessed and made from scratch. 

 How we start every morning. Knife skills.&nbsp;Best part of it is that we juice every ingredient and enjoy fresh and organic veggie &amp; fruit juices every day! :)

 

How we start every morning. Knife skills. Best part of it is that we juice every ingredient and enjoy fresh and organic veggie & fruit juices every day! :)

 Raw vegan Zucchini Lasagna with Macadamia Ricotta,&nbsp;Red Pepper-Sundried Tomato Marinara, and Pistachio Pesto.&nbsp;

 

Raw vegan Zucchini Lasagna with Macadamia Ricotta, Red Pepper-Sundried Tomato Marinara, and Pistachio Pesto. 

 Veggie Hand Rolls with Spicy Mango Chutney.&nbsp;

 

Veggie Hand Rolls with Spicy Mango Chutney. 

 Red Beet Ravioli with Cashew Cheese, Pistachios &amp; Bell Pepper Puree.&nbsp;

 

Red Beet Ravioli with Cashew Cheese, Pistachios & Bell Pepper Puree. 

 Kale Cesar Salad with Sunflower Dressing &amp;&nbsp;Shiitake Anchovies.

 

Kale Cesar Salad with Sunflower Dressing & Shiitake Anchovies.

 Sushi roll with Jicama Rice, Shiitake Mushrooms &amp; Chipotle Mayo.&nbsp;

 

Sushi roll with Jicama Rice, Shiitake Mushrooms & Chipotle Mayo. 

Au Naturel is always better: Natural gum, coconut oil deodorant & cosmetic bag that gives back!

in ,

As I promised you guys, Tuesday's of every week will be dedicated to talking about beauty & health products that are REALLY good for you while also being INCREDIBLY kind to our planet. Three of those products, and the ones I carry in my purse at all times, are "Simply Gum", "Agent Nateur" and Iniva's cosmetic bag. Now, you might be wondering what makes these products different from the commercial ones you see everywhere. Let's start with the most basic one and a daily need in every gum-lover's life. G U M. I bet you didn't know that the ordinary chewing gum you see on every grocery store shelve is filled with artificial and harmful ingredients just like the ones used to manufacture car tires, plastic bottles, white glue, and artificial sweeteners. Sadly, we as consumers are being kept in the dark about which ingredients companies use because the FDA allows gum brands to hide up to 80 synthetic ingredients in the catch-all term "gum base" on the label. How pathetic, confusing and frustrating is that? Specially when, according to research, about 56% of the US population consumes gum giving birth to an industry that generates over $4.3 billion in sales every year!! That also means that more than 178 million Americans are consuming toxic ingredients in their daily minty chewy candy without even knowing. Believe it or not, that includes me as well. I had no idea about this until I started doing more research and came across a fabulous, 100% natural, biodegradable and organic gum brand called: "Simply Gum". This work of genius comes in 6 different flavors- mint, coffee, maple, cinnamon (my fave), ginger, fennel licorice (my 2nd fave)- and is made from the following 6 ingredients: all natural chicle, organic dried cane juice, organic vegetable glycerin, organic sunflower lecithin, organic rice flour and natural flavors. Not to mention that their packaging design is made to perfection (clean, simple and natural!) and carries 15 yummy gum pieces with "post chew paper wraps" for whenever you are done chewing. (See pics below) How BRILLIANT is that? A definite must-have in your pocket or bag. The box of 6 is around $14. A lucky winner will get the chance to win one of the flavors in October's giveaway along with 4 other vegan and natural products. Stay tuned for details in October!

Next is Agent Nateur. The reason why this product made it to my MUST HAVE list is because it has taken me forever to find a 100% natural deodorant that is free of GMO's, parabens, sulfates, aluminum and petroleum while also having a delicious and captivating scent. The ingredients used in this wonderful creation are: coconut oil (nourishes skin and also acts as a bacteria killer), avocado butter, raw honey (NOT for vegans who avoid using honey bi-products), and lavender and eucalyptus essential oils. It smells delicious and comes in a clean, stylish, vogue-looking and beautiful packaging. And of course, this brand does not test on animals. :) (If you haven't heard of animal testing, click here to find out and always look for products labeled as "cruelty-free", "vegan" or "no animal testing".) The 1.7oz sells for $19 and a lucky winner will get the chance to win one in October's giveaway along with 4 other products. Stay tuned for details in October! 

And last but not least, Iniva's cosmetic bag. This store is located in Wynwood (Miami, FL) and is slowly changing the way Floridians and tourists view fashion. With a colorful and Africa-oriented store, Iniva promotes and sells products that are not only eye-catching, unique and fashionable but also support African artisans and help children go to school.


Must-see Movies That Will Change Your Life.

in ,

A question I get asked often is what movies/documentaries I recommend to people making the shift to a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle. Movies that will inspire them to continue in that path or open their minds to topics they've never heard of before. I decided to cover this question today in honor of Racing Extinction's movie premier and because my eco-trip to Holbox, Mexico, and the experience I had of swimming with whale sharks in open waters was so mind-blowing and heart-stopping that I promised myself I would go beyond my ways (even further!) to spread the word about animal cruelty and what we can do to stop it. So, I've attached a video of that magnificent experience in Mexico. It's a must for every animal lover and adventure seeker. No need to swim with dolphins, seals and whales in captivity. That's for people who don't admire or treasure life and freedom. Go out there, breathe the salty air and swim in the wilderness. Admire it. Protect it. At least what's left of it. xx

In short, these are documentaries every person who cares a little about our planet should watch. And I know you guys do because... you...are...reading...this! That means you are already looking for kinder and more mindful ways of walking on this planet. Thank you for that. Honestly! <3

-"If slaughterhouses had glass walls, we would all be vegetarian" by Paul McCartney and Peta. I've talked about this film dozens of times. It changed my life and made me go vegetarian and later vegan.

-"Cowspiracy": I wrote an entire story about this film on the blog a year ago when it came out. Click here to read it. In summary, this film makes you realize that being vegan is not only about your compassion towards animals but it’s also about sustainability. It’s about helping stop one of the most destructive industries facing our planet today: factory farming.

-"True Cost": A documentary that will completely change the way you view fashion and hopefully inspire you to shop more consciously. Choosing brands carefully. People's lives can be saved one fashion item at a time. 

-"Racing Extinction": It's on selected theaters NOW!!! Sept 18-Oct 1! Go watch it! I know I will. Spread the word. 

Heartbreaking reality. Stop Yulin!

in , ,

Today’s post is hard one. My hands are shaking and tears running through my face as I write this while I sit on my bed next to my furry best friend, Coco. Just the fact that she's next to me while I prepare this post about dog cruelty in China makes this even harder. I think she can understand my frustration because she just came closer to me and rested her head on my thigh. Looking at me with those adorable eyes. Eyes that reflect never-ending loyalty and infinite love. How can we humans be so cruel? What goes on in our brains that triggers things like this? Why can’t we feel pain other than our own? Why do we get pleasure from torturing creatures that can’t defend themselves? China, a country capable of achieving so much… The world’s largest trading nation! As a banker, I had always admired its impressive fast paced economy and all the wonders it has been able to produce in the past 10 years but slowly I've lost all respect. Specially today. Today I feel disgusted, sad and angry because of China's blindness towards what’s going on in its own lands. Within its own borders. By its own people.  And no, I’m not referring to labor exploitation, child labor or sexual trafficking. Today, I’m referring to new issues finally being exposed. From Times Magazine to Youtube. China: Your hands are marked with inhumanity. Your flags read suffering. And until you pass a law that prohibits these cruel practices, I hope all humans with a drop of compassion in their veins, think of you the same way. 

For everyone reading this, PLEASE PLEASE post this everywhere and sign the petition. I know it’s a hassle and we just “don’t have the time” to sign a 5 minute petition. But this instance, you WILL make the time because this instance is not about you. It’s about them! The thousands of stray and imprisoned dogs being tortured, killed and cooked for the Yulin Chinese festival starting June 21, 2015.

Please watch this video, read this article and sign the petition below. For everyone else looking to join our movement, please take a picture of yourself hugging your furry friend and hang a sign that says: “Where’s the LOVE?” on your dog’s neck and write “Stop Yulin 2015” on your palm. Let’s raise awareness babes!! #stopyulin2015

Love you guys.

V.

China's Dog Eating Festival: http://www.dogingtonpost.com/10000-dogs-tortured-annual-yulin-dog-eating-festival/

Petition: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-people-s-republic-of-china-stop-the-yulin-dog-meat-eating-festival

Oh Holi Medicine! The natural way.

in

Oh, Holi Med!

I don’t about you guys, but I’ve always been intrigued by holistic medicine. You see, my grandmother, aka my second mother, my psychologist, my confident, my soul-mate and partner in crime got diagnosed with advanced cancer in her early 70s. When the doctors looked at her chest x-rays they told her she had few months to live and would not make it to a year. According to them, it was a miracle she was still alive. Little did they know she would live for another year and half. I think my family and I have natural medicine to thank for that. And of course, my grandmother’s willingness to live. The minute she got diagnosed, we changed her diet to a vegan diet and gave her natural meds, herbs and teas but the doctors suggested chemotherapy and I’m pretty sure that is what took her away from us. The chemo was so strong and toxic it did not only try to kill the cancer but it consumed her immune system completely. There’s no day that passes by that I don’t ask myself what would’ve happened if we had chosen holistic medicine all the way. It’s been two years since she passed away and besides the silence and loneliness she left in me, she also made me start to wonder more and more about holistic medicine. So… I went to a “holi-doc” and to be honest, I was, and still am, completely shocked with the results. Apparently, being vegan and exercising regularly is not enough. We still need to worry about the pH of the foods we eat! I’ve always heard about alkalinity vs acidity but never put too much attention to it. Consequence? My pH is 6.3 when it should be 7.3 or above. You guys might be asking yourselves “Why the hell is pH so important?”. Here’s a great response to that by Dr Sonja Benjamin: “Our bodies live and die at the cellular level. The billions of cells in our bodies must maintain alkalinity, in order to function and stay alive. The first line of defense against disease is a proper pH balance. Disease can only grow in an acidic body, which makes a condition favorable for the growth of bacteria, yeast, fungus, mold, viruses, and any other unwanted organisms. Cancer always strikes those with an over-acidic body. An acidic state causes a lack of oxygenation at the cellular level. When the pH level falls below 7.4, there is less than the maximum oxygen in the blood. Blood carries the maximum oxygen at pH 7.4 (alkaline). Without proper oxygenation, unfriendly bacteria, mold, and viruses will prosper. When the human body is in an acidic state, it will try to shield itself from the damaging acid by storing the acid in fat cells. The body tries to prevent the acid from eating holes in tissues. When the acid level is high in the body, calcium is also depleted. Your body may make fat cells in order to store unwanted acid for its own protection. This process may save your vital organs from severe damage. By returning to a balanced pH level, you may lose unwanted fat cells.Osteoporosis is an acidic problem. As the body becomes more acidic, calcium is depleted. The body will then leach calcium from bones, teeth, and tissue to make up for this loss. One of the first warning signs is calcium deposits in the body, which come from the calcium in our teeth and bones and not from nutritional calcium.”

Now, back to my story. According to my “doc” my pH was the result of the killer combination of my stress level (apparently, abnormal for my age) and acid food choices. I told him there’s not much I could do about the stress since I work in one of the most stressful industries out there, private banking, so until I have the guts to quit and make my passion my bill-payer I would focus on meditating more and definitely taking charge of my eating habits. He laughed and we agreed on the following: 2-3 months healing process to a better me focused on: less carbs, alkaline water ONLY, less coffee (lowering it from 3 to 1 cup a day), a diet based on 2/3 alkaline foods and 1/3 acidic and of course, no wine (told him that would not happen, like EVER! My family produces wine for a living so I’ve been basically a wine-lover since I was tall enough to grab a glass from the table and serve myself! Luckily, the “doc” knew which battles to choose.) and SUPPLEMENTS! Vegans need supplements more than anyone. I’ve hated vitamins and pills since I was a kid so I avoided them as much as I could. Result? I’m deficient in almost every vitamin out there. The supplements he recommended are 100% natural and VEGAN. Here’s the list in case you guys want to give them a try:

-E3Live Renew Me Body Blend (Strengthens immune system, improves attention and energy levels, supports circulation, etc) I add two teaspoons to my morning shake.

-Diatomaceous Earth (root powder that kills all types of bacteria and parasites) I add one teaspoon to my morning shake.

-Moringa (Superfood Miracle aka Botanical Multi-vitamin)

-Clinic’s Choice Optimal Flora (Probiotic to balance digestive bacteria)

-Clinic’s Choice Protosolve (promotes healthy circulation system)

-Clinic’s Choice Digest Plus (enzymes)

-Osteo-Gest (osteoporosis prevention)

I already started this journey and will visit the “doc” in October for a follow up. I’ll let you guys know how it goes. In the meantime, here’s a link to a list of alkaline vs acidic foods. You’ll be amazed by how foods we thought were so healthy (oatmeal and brown rice) turn out to be acidic! At least, I was.

Love you guys!

http://www.rense.com/1.mpicons/acidalka.htm

 

http://www.doctoroz.com/article/25-alkaline-promoting-foods


Furry animals. To let live or not to. Is that really a question?

Whether you are a 105% animal-lover and answer "To let live" or a fur coat addict and answer "not to let live", here are a few facts I want you to know so you have the right information to defend your point of view, or attack others (not judging!), during discussions about veganism. 

To my fashion-loving fur coat & leather booties wearers: I used to be one of your own. To be honest, I had more pairs of leather boots than I could count. And yes, I had a fur coat too!! But, that all changed when I saw… Paul McCartney!!...or something like that! :p Four years ago one of my best friends sent me an email with two sentences and a link. Her words were: "You love animals so much you have to see this. Make it your new year's resolution. Happy New Year! Love you!" And there it was... a link to Paul McCartney's documentary with a title that said it all. "If slaughterhouses had glass walls we would all be vegetarian." BAAM! My first slap in the face! Little did I know I would receive a few more slaps and even a HUGE punch in the stomach after watching it. For those who’ve had the strength to watch it entirely, HIGH FIVE!!! I finished the documentary in fetal position rocking myself on the floor next to an empty box of Kleenex! That was it for me! Bye bye Wendy's combo. So long McDonalds Mcnuggets. Au revoir homemade "churrascos" (I guess the proper word in English would be “bar-bi-qiu”).

As the months passed by I decided to read more about vegetarianism and veganism so I went to my can't-live-without-you boyfriend, Google, and typed "vegan- Peta- animals". BAAAAAAMMM, PSSHHHH, PIU PIU, POONG and all the crashing sounds you can think of! Arrivederci leather boots, Tschüssie furry coats, Adios cruelty-full products!! There is so much cruelty going on in all industries that use animal parts (no better way to put it) that the shocking learning process really never ends. All I can suggest is to take it one day at a time!! And with that being said, today is your DAY ONE.

Fur coat industry 101… China has become one of the leading suppliers of fur garments to the USA. It doesn’t matter if the fur coat you are wearing is labeled as “Wild animal” or “Farm raised”, that exotic animal is not only dead but it also endured hours of pain. This was proven in an undercover research that showed raccoons, beavers, minks and other animals being skinned alive by humans. Oh, and if that is not enough, dogs and cats are included in that list too. Yeap! China sells dog and cat fur, which are labeled as “fur”. See the difference in the label? There is none. So that fur coat you have in your closet might just be a dead dog. This puts the “Love One but Kill the other” quote in a different perspective, doesn’t it? Below are a few links with more information. Be careful. The pictures are graphic! Good luck with Day One guys.

PS: I don't like to finish stories with a tragic ending so, the good news are.... There are vegan options to fur!! YAY!!! I will share those with you through the "Outfit of the day" posts. :)

To my vegan siblings from another mother: All blog posts now have a Facebook share button so spread the love!!!

Xoxo

Vale.

Reality-sucks LINKS:

Paul McCartney's If Slaughterhouses Had Glass Walls: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_UpyY2MIOc

China Fur Farms: http://features.peta.org/ChineseFurFarms/

Animals skinned for fur: http://www.peta.org/issues/animals-used-for-clothing/fur/animals-used-fur/

The Fur Industry summarized: http://www.peta.org/issues/animals-used-for-clothing/fur/

Doggie tips to prevent summer heatstroke!

It's summertime and temperatures are rising. Please read the following advices from weather.com to prevent your furry babies from overheating. And PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE if you can't take your dog to the store with you, do NOT leave him/her in the car. Cracking windows will not prevent the car from becoming a deathly sauna. Leave your cute soulmate at home with the AC on or outside with water and a shelter.

Share this info with all doggie-lovers. 

xoxo

"Sun + humidity = heatstroke (and other factors that kill)

Everyone knows that the inside of a car on a hot summer's day can be lethal. But Fido needs you to know more than that to keep him safe in the deadly sun. Days above 90 degrees, especially with high humidity, are inherently dangerous for your pet. Humidity interferes with animals' ability to rid themselves of excess body heat. When we overheat we sweat, and when the sweat dries it takes excess heat with it. Our four-legged friends only perspire around their paws, which is not enough to cool the body. To rid themselves of excess heat, animals pant. Air moves through the nasal passages, which picks up excess heat from the body. As it is expelled through the mouth, the extra heat leaves along with it. Although this is a very efficient way to control body heat, it is severely limited in areas of high humidity or when the animal is in close quarters.

The shape of an animal's nasal passages can contribute to an animal's tendency to overheat. Brachiocephalic (pug-nosed) dogs are more prone to heatstroke because their nasal passages are smaller and it's more difficult for them to circulate sufficient air for cooling. Overweight dogs are also more prone to overheating because their extra layers of fat act as insulation, which traps heat in their bodies and restricts their breathing capabilities. Age can also be a factor in an animal's tendency to overheat--very young animals may not have a fully developed temperature regulating system, and older pets' organ systems may not be functioning at 100 percent, leaving them prone to heat-related damage.

Cracking the windows doesn't cut it:

So where are the danger zones? The most obvious is your car: It can become a death trap even on a mild sunny day--and can insidiously raise the car's temperature to well above 120 degrees! Never, ever leave your pet inside the car. If Fido can't come with you when you get out of the car, leave him at home.

What are some other dangerous situations for your pets? Leaving animals outdoors without shelter is just as dangerous as leaving them inside a hot car. Be sure they are not left in a cage in the hot sun, on a chain in the backyard, or outdoors in a run without sufficient shade or air circulation.

Their lives are in your hands:

Heatstroke is a medical emergency. If you suspect your pet has heatstroke, you must act quickly and calmly. Have someone call a veterinarian immediately. In the meantime, lower the animal's body temperature by applying towels soaked in cool water to the hairless areas of the body. Often the pet will respond after only a few minutes of cooling, only to falter again with his temperature soaring back up or falling to well below what is normal. With this in mind, remember that it is imperative to get the animal to a veterinarianimmediately. Once your pet is in the veterinarian's care, treatment may include further cooling techniques, intravenous fluid therapy to counter shock, or medication to prevent or reverse brain damage.

Even with emergency treatment, heatstroke can be fatal. The best cure is prevention, and Fido and Fluffy are relying on you to keep them out of harm's way. Summer does not have to be fraught with peril--with ample precaution, both you and your furry friends can enjoy those long, hot, dog-days of summer.

Signs of Heatstroke

  • Panting

  • Staring

  • Anxious expression

  • Refusal to obey commands

  • Warm, dry skin

  • High fever

  • Rapid heartbeat

  • Vomiting

  • Collapse

Precautions to take if your pet lives outdoors

  • Ensure adequate shelter from sun/midday heat

  • Outdoor kennels should be well-ventilated and in the shade

  • Provide plenty of fresh water in a bowl that cannot be tipped over

  • Avoid excessive exercise on hot days

  • Talk with your local veterinarian to determine if your long-haired Fido needs a summer haircut"

http://www.weather.com/outlook/homeandgarden/pets/articles/d139



The products you use & Orangutan brothels.

in

I mentioned this topic a few days ago on Instagram and, after all the responses I received, I thought I should share more information with you so you have all the tools you need to make wiser choices. There are many ongoing issues and causes I've written about but this one is very dear to my heart. For some reason, and without ever having seen one in person, orangutans have become one of my favorite animals. Maybe it's the way they show their love towards one another and towards humans that fills my eyes with happy tears. They hug, and kiss and play just like any human being but in an extremely adorable way!!! Sadly, this species I like so much has been suffering greatly because of our selfish capitalistic mindset. During the past 20 years, the orangutan habitat has decreased by 90% due to palm oil production and around 1000-5000 orangutans are killed each year through deforestation. The orangutans that managed to survive the tree-cutting and fires, are either sold as pets for entertainment or become salves of orangutan brothels. Yes, you read correctly! Sex slaves for human pleasure. This was all exposed in an article about Pony, an orangutan that was rescued in Borneo after years of sexual slavery. Her story was so horrific and the pictures so heartbreaking, I promised myself to read every product label carefully to avoid buying things with palm oil. Now, you might be asking yourself “What the hell is palm oil?” Well, palm oil is an oil derived from the fruit of the oil palm tree and is pretty much in every freaking product we buy! Not kidding. Shampoos, soaps, body lotions, peanut butter, cleaning supplies, toothpaste, chips and even our most delicious frenemy, chocolate! Luckily, an increasing amount of brands are coming up with vegan alternatives to all palm-oil containing products. Walgreens just came up with it’s own eco-friendly & cruelty-free line, Ology. From printing paper to cleaning supplies. Walgreens has become one of my weekly stops and Ology one of my best friends. Frustrated Farmgirl's palm oil free soaps are also my recent addiction. Click here to buy them.

Little by little I’ll start sharing my favorite 100% vegan products via instagram and blog posts. In the meantime, try to read labels when you go shopping. If you see “palm oil” in the ingredients, scream NEXT and move on! Look for love words like: cruelty-free, vegan, no animal testing, no animals harmed, palm oil free, and lastly…the bunny logo. I know it’s a pain and we just “don’t have the time” but see it as your drop of kindness towards our planet. Simple steps that make a huge difference. <3

To read more about palm oil production or Pony’s story click links below. 

http://www.orangutans.com.au/Orangutans-Survival-Information/About-Palm-Oil.aspx

http://orangutan.or.id/ponys-new-life-2/



Between Love & Reality.

in

Today’s post is very hard for me to write and even worse to meditate on. I own a dog myself and have loved animals since I was old enough to hold one in my hand. My love and fascination towards animals ranged from having a little white mouse as a pet, to loving frogs and picking up and healing little lizards that had been attacked by cats. It’s in my essence until this day. I normally don’t like to write about things that can turn our days gray but this is something that breaks my heart and I would like to share it with everyone.

If you look at the picture below these words, what do you see? What does it make you feel? Happiness? Love? What about realization? Or compassion? Let’s face it; whenever we see a picture of a dog, we melt. We smile, say “ahhh so cute”, run home to hug our own dogs, or think about getting one (if so, please adopt!). But there’s so much more behind that picture that we don’t take into consideration. Unfortunately, we live in a world where short-term gains come before health, humility and humanity.  Yes, you read right. HUMANITY! To make this a little more realistic (maybe dramatic? People seem to react better to drama than reality), I want you to stop what you are doing right now and follow these instructions. Ladies, take your cosmetic bag out of your purse and read your cosmetics’ labels. Gents, if you are home, run to your bathrooms and look at the products you used this morning. Shampoos, shaving lotions, etc… Now, ladies and gents, besides all the hard-to-pronounce toxic ingredients on the labels, what else do you see? Do you see a pink bunny logo, or words that say “cruelty-free”, “vegan”, or “no animal testing”? If your products show that, you are freakin’ awesome and I love you! Your conscious buying is shaping this world for the better. If your products don’t show that, here’s a reality check. According to research, 60-74% of personal products and 80-95% of household products have been tested on animals. Now, here’s the biggest reality check of all. The word “animals” does not only include rats and mice, but also rabbits, monkeys, birds, DOGS AND CATS. So now that it’s out there, what can we do about it? Nowadays, it’s not enough to love our dogs and cats if every dollar we spend puts the life of other living beings through torture and fear. All animals that go through product testing experiments never get to see the light of day, or step their paws on green grass, or know what a tender genuine touch means. Half of those animals die within 2-3 weeks after being tested on. Sadly, this is the world we live in but the decision to stop it or support it rests on our hands. So please, next time you go shopping read labels carefully and share this knowledge with the ones you love. Compassion should be the only language governing this planet.

With love, Vale.

For info on cruelty-free products, go over my instagram and blog posts. I’ve shared so many already. 

If you would like to read more about animal testing, click here.

Peta.org recently showed the cutest video about beagles being freed from labs and taking their first steps on beautiful green grass. <3 Click here to watch it.